Because of You by Eve Ainsworth

Author:Eve Ainsworth
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781781129036
Publisher: Barrington Stoke

School itself starts OK. I text Dad on the way in, telling him I’m looking forward to the match on Saturday – because, let’s be honest, I need that escape. Then I lose myself in the crowd. I try not to catch anyone’s eye – just move quickly to my tutor‑group room. Lia and Charlotte are already there, but so is Mrs Vincent, so nothing is said. I spot a few dirty looks being flashed my way as I slide into my seat next to Freddie, but other than that, nothing.

Lia even smiles at me as she passes me at the door.

I nod, not sure what to do next. Should I say sorry? But then again, why should I? She set up the group about me. I just responded. I haven’t done anything wrong here. I can feel myself stiffen, my strength building. Dad always taught me to stand up for myself. I’m not going to back down now.

“Morning, Poppy,” Lia says brightly. Too brightly.

I smile back. It feels fake and heavy, but I do it anyway. Charlotte grins briefly, but I can see her eyes are as cold as ice. Both girls move off down the corridor in front of me. I walk slowly after them, thinking it’s best to stay behind them.

“You shouldn’t have said that last night,” a voice says behind me.

I turn. It’s Emily. Her bright beady eyes blink at me. I feel a flash of anger.

“If it wasn’t for you,” I say, “I wouldn’t be in this mess.”

“I didn’t ask you to get involved,” Emily mutters.

“So what’s the deal anyway – were you flirting with Jamie?” I ask.

Emily shrugs. “I’ve known him for ages. It was nothing. But Lia is obsessed with him. She hates to think anyone else will get with him.”

“But were they even going out?” I ask. “I heard—”

“Yeah well, you heard right.” Emily cuts me off. “They were barely together. Lia just sees it as more.”

Emily starts walking, so I have to gather speed to catch her up. “Emily. What’s going on with you? Why won’t you say something?”

She half laughs. “It’s just not worth it, is it?” Emily says. “If you get on the wrong side of Lia, she makes your life a misery.” She looks at me again. Her eyes are shimmering. “So good luck with that.”

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