Jamie nodded and headed out of the cafeteria.
“Why do I subject myself to such torture?” she said to herself as she walked down the hallway. “Cause I’m too nice for my own good.”
Jamie was trying to decide where to hide out for the rest of the period when she found an empty classroom. Peering inside the room she saw a piano. Quietly she slipped inside. She dropped her backpack onto the floor and sat down on the bench. Jamie ran her hands over the smooth ivory keys. She had her own piano but it hadn’t arrived from Denver yet. She had been itching to play for the past week. She glanced over her shoulder to make sure she was alone. When Jamie was satisfied that no one was around she began to play.
She was pulled away from her life while she played. She wasn’t worried about fitting in or trying to figure out why her parents had moved her here. It was just about her and the music.
After she played the last note she heard applause. Quickly Jamie turned around and saw her neighbor standing in the doorway.
“I didn’t realize I had an audience.” Jamie said.
“That was really great.” He told her.
“Thanks. Do you play?” she asked.
“Yeah, but I haven’t in awhile.” He replied.
“Everwood doesn’t seem like the epitome of culture.” Jamie commented.
“That’s for sure. But I guess I’m biased…I lived in New York for fifteen years.” He said.
“New York? Wow. I’ve never left Colorado.” She said.
“I think you’d like it there…you know I just realized I have no idea what your name is.” He said.
Jamie chuckled. “Well, I guess we’re even because I don’t know yours either.”
“Ephram Brown.” He said.
“Jamie West.” She told him.
“So Jamie what brings you to the fabulous town of Everwood?” Ephram asked.
“You’re going to think my parents are nuts if I tell you.” Jamie replied.
“Doubtfully, very doubtful.” Ephram said.
“They both quit their jobs in Denver to move here and buy some diner. Something about the low stress lifestyle and getting back to nature.” She said.
Ephram just stared at her.
“See I told you.” Jamie said.
“No, that’s not it. Your parent’s reasoning almost seems normal. My dad shipped us out here and I’m still trying to figure out why.” Ephram said.
“Your sister said that your dad is one of the doctors here.” Jamie said.
“He is. He was a famous neurosurgeon back in New York. After my mom died he gave it all up and opened a free general practice here.” He told her.
“Sorry about your mom.” Jamie said, not quite sure what to say.
He shrugged. “Thanks.”
“Did you say free practice?” Jamie asked. “Is that even legal?”
Ephram smiled. “I guess so. He said he wanted to give back or something.”
“To each their own.” Jamie said.
“That’s true. So why are you in here?” he asked.
“I’m hiding.” Jamie said truthfully.
“From what?” Ephram asked.
“More like from who. Amy Abbott seems to think because she showed me around on the first day of school it’s her job to be my best friend or something.” Jamie replied.
“Amy can be quite a handful.” Ephram said thoughtfully.
“You’re telling me. If I have to hear about her perfect boyfriend and how strong he was on his road to recovery one more time I’m going to throw up.” Jamie said.
“She likes to rub that ‘perfect relationship’ in everyone’s face.” He said.
“I’m glad I wasn’t around here when he was hurt. I’m sure she maxed out the victim card.” She said.
Ephram laughed. “That’s one way to put it.”
“Oh jeehz…I probably sound like the most insensitive person in the world. I’m sure it was hard for her and all.” Jamie said.
“No, I think I know what you meant.” He said.
The bell rang signaling the end of the period.
“Well, I’m glad I hid out and you found me.” Jamie said picking up her backpack.
“Me too.” Ephram replied.
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