Chapter 58

It was her first day back, and just as Nadine and Adele were passing by the remaining ‘Cool Crew', who were, as usual, confabbing in front of Christy's locker before homeroom, Leah came up to them and gently wrapped her arms around Nadine; giving her a prolonged, affectionate hug. While holding Nadine there, in full view of Christy and her followers, Leah spoke loud enough for everyone in the hallway within proximity to hear… "I'm so sorry, Nadine…for every mean thing I ever said or did to you…" she turned her head and briefly looked at Adele, then turned it back around, "and Adele. I really am. Can you ever forgive me?" True, Nadine had been angered many times by Leah and the others, particularly Christy, over the years…and certainly by those nasty remarks and acts taken upon poor Adele…but it was never in Nadine's nature to behold a grudge against anyone; even if they were part of the notorious ‘Cool Crew'. And now, with little time to spare, Nadine doesn't want to waste any of it she has left with petty matters. Part of her accepting her approaching death involves her own wish to make and be at peace within all facets of her remaining life; which includes forgiveness to all those who had wronged her. "Of course I can, Leah. I totally forgive you." Leah tenderly pressed the side of her head against Nadine's, and softly whispered in her ear, "Thank you." Leah could have done that anytime, and anywhere; but she chose to do it specifically in front of Christy and the others. So, in that way, yes, it was a slightly calculated move on Leah's part. But, it was mostly done as a truly sincere, apologetic gesture. And Nadine realized that; because as Leah held her in her arms, with her head gently resting against hers, Nadine felt several of the tears which were flowing from Leah's eyes at the time drip down upon her neck and shoulder. It's the time of the school year that most of the school faculty dreads…the convening of the Junior and Senior Prom committees. Each grade has their representatives conceive a unique theme; and then take that concept and transform it into the ‘perfect evening'. And every year, several faculty members are designated to oversee the process for each event. This year, Mr. Trudeaux was supposed to help coordinate the Senior Prom; but he had requested to be reassigned to the Junior Prom's committee because of the two unexpected members.