Episode 61: Scene Two
"This has certainly been one carnival to remember," Chloe said to Gemini as she walked off the tennis courts with her friend. "I can't remember having been through so much drama in my life. But at least it's over."
"Oh, I know! I heard about what went down between you and Brent. Are you glad it's over?" Gemini asked, brushing back a strand of her wind-blown hair.
"You better believe it!" Chloe exclaimed emphatically. "I have to make room for those hot senior guys that are going to be heading my way at the start of school."
Gemini halted and turned to Chloe. Her head was cocked oddly to the side as she seemed to be studying Chloe.
"What? Did I say something?" Chloe asked.
"No, it's just that-" Gemini hesitated. She shrugged and continued walking. "You've changed a lot since you first came here."
"Have I?"
"Pssyeah! I mean, when you came here you were totally insecure. It used to bug the living daylights out of me, but now...well, now you seem to have grown out of that. I'm really proud of you."
"I will take that compliment in its highest esteem," Chloe beamed, throwing a friendly arm around Gemini's shoulder.
"Enough with the wise-beyond-your-years phrases," Gemini laughed. "I know you're really smart and all, but not all of us are."
"Speaking of which, I am so not ready for school to start. Fish Camp is in a week, Gemini. There is no way that I'm going to be able to survive school."
"I know! I mean, I'm taking three pre-AP courses, but you're taking two pre-AP courses plus pre-AP Algebra II! You have got to be out of your mind!"
Chloe's eyes had become widened and solemn. "Ain't that the truth. I hated Algebra I in seventh grade, so I'm sure that this year is going to be even worse."
"Yeah. I just hope I get into some classes with you and my other friends..." Gemini's voice trailed off.
"And Sloane?" Chloe finished the sentence for her.
Gemini stared at Chloe for several seconds before continuing the pace. "I'm moving on, Chloe."
"You know that he's always going to be in your heart, Gem," Chloe persisted.
"At one time, maybe, but now I have more important things to focus on. Sloane is out of my life now, thank God. I have so many things to focus on this year, so I don't have time to deal with boys."
"I most certainly can agree with that," Chloe muttered, "but you can't give up on a chance of a lifetime."
Gemini's eyes had hardened. "I don't have a choice."