By the time Monday had come, Spencer was exhausted. She quickly showered, put her clothes on, and threw her hair into a ponytail. She ran down the steps just as Madison pulled up.

“Honey, wait!” Paula called before Spencer could make it out the door.

“Yes?” She asked.

“I wanted to drive you to school today.” Paula said, smiling. Spencer gave her a blank look before shrugging.

“Madison’s already here mom.” Spencer said, impatiently.

“Madison?” Paula switched into parent mode. “Now, I’ve told you I don’t think she’s a good influence on you.”

“Please.” Spencer scoffed. “Madison doesn’t do anything wrong.” She said, thinking of the store incident a couple of days before.

“That being so. I think that you and Chelsea should maybe find new friends to hang out with.”

“What about Chelsea?” Chelsea said as she bounded down the steps. She’d been staying with the Carlins ever since she’d gotten pregnant 6 months before. She’d since had a miscarriage but never told her parents. Having known Spencer ever since 4^th grade, the Carlins were glad to let Chelsea stay with them longer, especially since Glen had left for college that year.

“I was telling Spencer about how I don’t approve of that Madison.” Paula said as she smiled towards Chelsea.

“Aww, Mrs. Carlin.” Chelsea said as she went to stand beside her. “Madison’s not bad. She really wouldn’t hurt a fly.” Chelsea hugged Paula around her shoulders. Paula took a deep breath.

“Well, I’m gonna trust your judgment for now. But at the first sign of peer pressure, you run. Got it?” Both Spencer and Chelsea nodded. “Okay. Have a good day girls.” Paula walked away and Spencer’s mouth dropped open.

“How do you do that?” Spencer asked.

“Do what?” Chelsea said, frowning.

“Get her to side with you so quickly.”

Chelsea shrugged. “Just natural I guess.” She chuckled. “Let’s go.”

            They finally arrived at school and the girls piled out of the car, Chelsea in the middle. Spencer could feel people staring at them, most likely whispering about Friday night. But Spencer didn’t mind. In fact, she loved all of the attention.

            “I think the whole damn school has staring problems.” Chelsea said as she looked around. Spencer laughed.