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

st. A tight ponytail confined her hair along with glasses that sat near her nose tip, which made her appear bookis

catch the janitor's attention. ''I need to find the princi

ard wearing an old denim jacket, glanced up from

? 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 h

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 st

ng to ask for directions? These 'rich classy kids' seem untouc

eyes met Victoria's, and a jolt of surprise coursed through her veins. Victoria's gentle smile and warm gaz

'' she said, her voice melodious. ''Are you new here?'' Zoe nodded, still taken abac

e frame commanded attention, and radiant skin glowed with a subtle sheen, as if kissed by the sun.

ntion to her. Everyone was engrossed in their own activities, oblivious to her presence. Zoe's anxiety faded, replaced by amusement at her own foolishnes

o keep going. ''I'm lost. I need to find the princ

way too.'' When Victoria said, ''Follow me,'' it felt like a

t she hadn't felt before. Victoria's natur

, unsure of how much to share. ''I'm from... um, the neighborhood,'' she replied, fe

at's cool! I love discovering new spots in the neighb

s her mum had faced. Just a few months prior, they had been on the brink of eviction, struggling to get by. But

ed tirelessly to secure a new home in the neighborhood. De

oughts. ''So, Zoe, what made you choose Excel Acad

letter. ''I actually applied for the scholarship, and I'm really gratef

ened. ''That's fantast

ademy is truly a dream school for every kid. The academic progr

, right? Excel Academy has such a great r

ure. ''It's just my mum and me actually, and yeah, she is. My mom has put in so

softened. ''That's r

only one bringing in money, had faced many challenges just to keep a roof over their he

pened the door, gesturing for Zoe to go in. ''Principa

with warmth. ''Hello, dear. I believ

I'm Zoe Kim, the

ave you in our Excel Academy community. We're gearing up for the SA

cipal Smith turned to her. ''Victoria, I'm glad you're here t

e! I'd love to show you around, Zoe

ass schedules and orientation materials. Don't hesitate

r the schedules. ''Thank you, Princi

e, Principal Smi