The Apology

The walk through the hall two weeks later is a triumphant one for Christina. Smiling with pride, she struts through the school with the confident air of a conquistador, proud to have held her own ground. She eyes the trio of Evie, Dani and Becky yakking near Evelyn’s locker, oblivious to Christina’s presence.

“Good morning, girls.”

The color drains out of Evelyn’s face.

“Oh, hi Christina.” Her voice wavers. “How are you doing today?”

“Guess you won’t be teasing me anymore.”

“Guess…so.” Evelyn stutters. “Now if you excuse me, I have to go to class.”

“Not so fast.” Christina blocks her. “I want to hear you say it.”

“Say what?”

“That you’re sorry, for calling me all those names.”

“I learned my lesson, Christina.” Evelyn lowers her voice. “I was mean and selfish and it won’t happen anymore…”

“Louder. I want to hear you say it in front of Dani and Becky. The whole student body.”

“But I thought this was just between you and me.”

“I’ve kept my side of the deal. Now I want you to keep yours.”

A crowd gathers around the foursome, watching from the sidelines. The tension in the air is like a summer afternoon—at any moment thunder could boom and the sky could be rent with lightning. Freshmen and seniors alike await the first punch.

“Say it.” Christina grips the cheerleader’s shoulder.

“You’re hurting me.” Evelyn winces.

Christina increases her hold, digging her fingernails into the Asian’s flesh. A tear streaks down Evelyn’s cheek.

“Don’t be shy.” Christina’s voice is cold. “I thought you liked having an audience.”
Evelyn gazes at the mass of people gathered around wondering what the fuss is about. She sighs resignedly, feeling more beaten down than if she’d been manhandled around the hall.

“I’m sorry, alright!?” She bellows loud enough for all to hear. “I’m sorry I called you all those ugly names. I deserved what I got. Will you let go of me now?”

“I want to hear Dani and Becky apologize.”

Evelyn nods at her two cohorts.

“I’m sorry.” Dani hangs her head low. “Forgive me?”

Becky is no less cowed by the soccer player’s aggressive demeanor.

“I’m sorry too, Christina.”

“You girls mean it?”

The trio nods in unison.

“Very well.” Christina slackens her grip.

“Can we go now?”

“One more thing.” She purses her lips. “I want you three to attend Friday’s game against the Tigers. I’ll personally introduce you to my teammates. Maybe next time you’ll choose your words more wisely when you’re gossiping about certain members of the Trojan soccer team.”

“Of course.” Evelyn smiles. “we’ll be there.”

“I’m counting on it.” Christina whispers in her ear before leaving the trio to their devices.