The Distance Between Us (I fell in love with my bully)

Zoe stood out in the bustling hallway, her eyes darting back and forth as she clutched a stack of books to her chest. A tight ponytail confined her hair along with glasses that sat near her nose tip, which made her appear bookish. She looked really nervous and her brow furrowed as she walked toward the janitor who was busy sweeping the floor.

''Excuse me,'' she said with a slight shake in her voice to catch the janitor's attention. ''I need to find the principal's office. Could you point me in the right direction?''

The janitor, a harried looking man with a full beard wearing an old denim jacket, glanced up from his task and offered a quick but apologetic smile.

''Sorry kiddo,'' he replied in a rough yet polite tone. ''I've got too much work right now. Maybe ask your fellow student for help? They'd be happy to show you the way.'' A look of letdown crossed her face plus her eyes filled with worry as she looked at the hallway. She had hoped the janitor would give her the directions but he was already turning back to his work, focused on the floor.

She hesitated for a while as she held her books close to her chest before she gave a nod and left. She appeared lost in the hallway and searched for someone to ask directions from. Her shoulders were hunched and her head was lowered, which made her look defensive as if she needed shelter from her surroundings. The passing students along with their hushed talks and laughs felt like sharp needles to her. She was sure she was the center of attention and that everyone was laughing at her.

Uncertainties paralyzed her as she stood still. ''Who am I going to ask for directions? These 'rich classy kids' seem untouchable.'' Her self-doubt intensified and her confidence dwindled.

Suddenly, a gentle tap on her shoulder made her gasp and her heart skipped a beat. As Zoe turned around, her eyes met Victoria's, and a jolt of surprise coursed through her veins. Victoria's gentle smile and warm gaze put her at ease, and she slowly returned the handshake. Their palms touched, igniting a spark of connection.

The gentle handshake, firm yet gentle, conveyed kindness. ''Hey, I'm Victoria James,'' she said, her voice melodious. ''Are you new here?'' Zoe nodded, still taken aback. ''Yeah, I'm uh, Zoe...Zoe Kim.'' she stuttered, her voice barely above a whisper.

Victoria's refined features and polished appearance captivated Zoe. Tall and poised, her statuesque frame commanded attention, and radiant skin glowed with a subtle sheen, as if kissed by the sun. Her long, dark brown hair cascaded down her back, sleek and lustrous, framing her face beautifully.

As Zoe stood before Victoria, she slowly raised her head, her eyes scanning the surrounding area. She was relieved as she realized no one was paying attention to her. Everyone was engrossed in their own activities, oblivious to her presence. Zoe's anxiety faded, replaced by amusement at her own foolishness. She had been so wrapped up in her own fears that her imagination had taken over. No one was judging her, they were all too lost in their own business.

Victoria's warm smile gave her the encouragement to keep going. ''I'm lost. I need to find the principal's office,'' Zoe said, her cheeks turning red.

Victoria nodded. ''Well, I can walk with you. I'm headed that way too.'' When Victoria said, ''Follow me,'' it felt like a lifeline, helping Zoe navigate through unfamiliar territory.

As they walked, Zoe began to feel a comfort she hadn't felt before. Victoria's natural charm and warmth made her feel at ease.

''Where are you from?'' Victoria asked, her tone friendly and curious. Zoe hesitated, unsure of how much to share. ''I'm from... um, the neighborhood,'' she replied, feeling a twinge of discomfort. She didn't want to disclose her family's difficulties.

Victoria nodded, her eyes shining with interest. ''That's cool! I love discovering new spots in the neighborhood. There's always something interesting to find.''

Zoe smiled, trying to mask her unease. As she walked beside Victoria, her thoughts drifted back to the challenges her mum had faced. Just a few months prior, they had been on the brink of eviction, struggling to get by. But then, Zoe received the scholarship to Excel Academy, a prestigious high school known for its academic excellence.

That opportunity was a lifeline, and Zoe's mother had worked tirelessly to secure a new home in the neighborhood. Despite the hurdles, they felt thankful for the fresh start.

Victoria's friendly chatter pulled Zoe from her thoughts. ''So, Zoe, what made you choose Excel Academy?'' she asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

Zoe smiled, her mind racing back to the moment she got the scholarship letter. ''I actually applied for the scholarship, and I'm really grateful to have received it,'' she said, her voice filled with appreciation.

Victoria's face brightened. ''That's fantastic! Congratulations!''

Zoe felt her cheeks flush at the compliment. ''Thanks. Excel Academy is truly a dream school for every kid. The academic programs are amazing, and it's a great stepping stone for college.''

Victoria nodded with excitement. ''I know, right? Excel Academy has such a great reputation. Your parents must be so happy.''

Zoe felt a rush of pride thinking about her mother's hard work for a better future. ''It's just my mum and me actually, and yeah, she is. My mom has put in so much effort to give me opportunities, and this scholarship means a lot to us.''

Victoria's expression softened. ''That's really inspiring, Zoe.''

Zoe agreed, still a bit cautious about sharing her family's situation. Her mother, the only one bringing in money, had faced many challenges just to keep a roof over their heads. But as they walked together, she felt grateful to Victoria for being so supportive.

They approached the principal's office, and Victoria opened the door, gesturing for Zoe to go in. ''Principal Smith will help you,'' she said, her tone comforting.

Inside, Principal Smith greeted Zoe with warmth. ''Hello, dear. I believe you're our new 11th-grade scholar?''

''Yes, that's me. I'm Zoe Kim, the new 11th grader.''

Principal Smith smiled broadly. ''Welcome, Zoe! We're thrilled to have you in our Excel Academy community. We're gearing up for the SAT and AP classes, which will be challenging but will help you grow.''

Victoria stayed close, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. Principal Smith turned to her. ''Victoria, I'm glad you're here too. Can you show Zoe around since you're in the same class?''

Victoria nodded eagerly. ''Of course! I'd love to show you around, Zoe. We'll get you settled in no time.''

Principal Smith handed Zoe a folder. ''Here are your class schedules and orientation materials. Don't hesitate to reach out to me or Victoria if you need anything.''

Zoe's eyes widened as she looked over the schedules. ''Thank you, Principal Smith. I really appreciate it.''

With a warm smile, Principal Smith dismissed them.