Chapter 27

"This world can hurt you, it cuts you deep and leaves you scarred. Things fall apart but nothing breaks like a heart."

Miley Cyrus.

"May all students line up for assembly. I repeat," the monosyllabic voice says, "may all students line up for assembly."

Chaos breaks out as a tsunami of terror seems to fills my heart. Concern and perplexity is written on the faces of my peers whilst we line up in an orderly fashion. The air appears to be knocked out of me and the trees, which stand rigidly as we make our way to the auditorium, loom over me, their light green leaves rustling in the wind, expressing their disappointment.

Obnoxious chatter surrounds me yet I ignore it, the peculiarity of the situation being the main attention of all my thoughts, the central focus. Red staggers behind me, Wyatt close by and again, I ignore them, distracted by how strange and sudden this assembly is. It must be something very essential, extremely significant if the whole school is being addressed.

Silent, we enter the immense auditorium. A large, chestnut-brown stage is at the front and opposite that, are the rows of wine-red, cushioned seats. On the stage, is the HeadMistress. Face stoic and hands behind her back, she strolls from one end to the other, observing the multitude of children that amble through the tall, navy blue double doors.

Miss Havisham, a lady of exemplary competence and accomplishments, strict teaching methods and heart as cold as ice. She wears the most mundane clothes on her slim frame, most outfits consisting of a black skirt, blouse and blazer . High heels with the pointiest of toes and fingers nails painted the shiniest scarlet-red. Hazel eyes have never looked so life-less and frankly, the only sign of life was the anger towards those who are disobedient.

Once we have all been seated in our rows, waiting for the justification for this abrupt gathering, the HeadMistress proceeds to continue her stroll, before finally casting her eyes upon the prodigious congregation of students. Licking her thin lips, she witnesses as all members of the school hold their.

"It has come to my attention," Miss Havisham begins, "that last week's incident was completely uncalled for. I understand that and I am grateful for the comprehension of staff and children. I would also like to take a moment to welcome Reddman Scott back after his absence."

Relieved, I exhale, thankful it wasn't anything serious.

"However," Miss Havisham says, "what I don't tolerate is foolishness. You see, last week there was a fire alarm. Nonetheless, none of the staff were informed nor notified that such an event were to occur. Meaning, the fire alarm was unexpected. Also meaning, one of the students had purposely triggered it."

"Oh sh!t," I think.

Whispers arise from this declaration, uttering remarks such as 'but who could it be?' or 'how could this have happened?.' Sitting there in total discomfort, I allow my gaze to remain at the front, the shock thrashing into me instantaneously. A problem of this magnitude cannot be overlooked and I realise that the inevitable cannot be prolonged.

I am going to get caught.

I am bound to get caught.

"Silence!" the HeadMistress screams and all quickly comply, her voice resonating, almost rattling in my skull. Miss Havisham comes to a halt in her walk, frowning at all of us.

"Before I go through any extreme measures," she states, "I would like to at least give the culprit the opportunity to turn him or herself in. So if the person who's committed this idiotic act please own up, that'd be much appreciated."

Evidently, the room is quiet.

No one owns up.

I don't own up.

"Well then, despite this, I'm feeling quite merciful," Miss Havisham sighs, resuming her stroll.  "I'll give the culprit two weeks to take responsibility for their actions. If after that time period there is no confession, I'll have no choice but to check all cameras on the premises."

I freeze.

She's actually bothering to give me a chance?

"If you are the culprit, I'd advise you turn yourself in and prevent any further trouble," she warns.

Moments later, she then finishes with:

"You may be dismissed."