Forever Changed

“Like that was ever really an issue,” he teased.

“Well, in hindsight, no, but before, I was always worried that you'd want to take it to the next level. So, how did your dad find out?”

“I told him when he started riding me about football scholarships. He couldn’t understand why I wasn’t applying for any of them.”

“You can still play football,” I said.

“Nah, I don’t want to. I never wanted a career in football. I want to do something I like.”

“And what is that?” I asked curiously, feeling like I was finally getting to know him.

“I want to teach.”

“Wow, seriously? Like what grade?”

“I’m thinking college level. I’d love to be an English lit professor at some college.”

“That would be great,” I said, slightly envious that he had it all mapped out. I was still indecisive about my future. I had a stack of college applications sitting on my desk waiting to be sent out, but I was dragging my feet on them.

“How about you?” Colton asked, helping me to my feet as the bell rang.

“Don’t ask. I’m still undecided,” I said, knotting my hoodie around my waist.

“Guess a cheerleading scholarship is out?” he joked.

I returned his smile. It was surreal to think that six months ago, both our lives were set on one path, and now everything had changed. It's crazy how life works. I couldn’t help feeling a spasm of grief that my dad wasn’t here to help me find the new path I should take.

Colton and I parted ways outside his Algebra II class since I had World History for fifth period. I slid into my seat with a few minutes to spare and pulled out my phone to make sure I hadn’t missed any calls or messages.

“I don’t know I was thinking making it an all white party,” I heard Lacey say to one of her followers in the back of the room. “That way, I can wear the killer red dress I got over Thanksgiving break in New York.”

“What do you mean all white?” Mindy asked.

“I mean the guests will wear all-white,” Lacey said, making it clear she thought Mindy’s comment was ignorant.

“Oh,” Mindy said, still sounding confused.

“OMG, just wear all white or don’t dare show up,” Lacey snipped, clearly aggravated.

I kept my back to their exchange, but grimaced at Lacey’s condescending tone. I had been on the sharp end of her tongue a few times over the years and felt pity for Mindy. Unless she stood up to Lacey like I had a few years back, Lacey would only get crueler.

“But I am invited, right?” Mindy asked nervously.

“YES, unless you keep saying stupid stuff that pisses me off,” Lacey said.

I shook my head slightly to myself. It was hard to remember why I ever thought she was cool to hang with. I must have been mentally challenged at the time.

“Of course, not everyone will be invited. Certain losers will miss out on the party of the year,” she added, making her point clear.

I fought the temptation to turn around and tell her I’d rather sit through an all-day class with Mr. Mathews' than attend a party of hers, but I held my tongue.

“You’re sooo lucky. I wish my parents' would let me throw a winter party at the Heathrow Country Club,” Carrie said wistfully, sitting on the other side of Lacey.

“Don’t be a dumbass. If they threw you a party then it would interfere with mine,” Lacey said meanly.

“Oh, I meant on a different night,” Carrie said apologetically, trying to explain.

Lacey’s response was cut off when Mr. Lewis entered the room.