LUNA'S POV - COLLEGE SECRETS

After hearing Betty's story, I felt a deep sense of empathy for her. I gave her a warm hug, trying to offer some comfort. When we pulled back, we decided to return to the classroom, where we found all the students gathered. We rushed to join them, eager to learn more about what was happening.

As we approached the group, I overheard snippets of conversation about a boy who had been beaten nearly to death. My heart sank as I realized the severity of the situation. Betty and I exchanged worried glances, and I could sense her unease.

The boy, it turned out, had reported the bullying of his sister by a group of girls, led by the girlfriend of the leader of the boy's squad. In retaliation, the boy's squad had teamed up to beat him severely. I felt a surge of outrage and sadness, thinking about the boy's suffering.

"This is outrageous," I exclaimed, turning to Betty. "The bullies need to be held accountable."

Betty nodded vigorously, her eyes flashing with anger. "I'm so tired of these bullies thinking they can get away with anything," she said. "I hope they get expelled soon."

Just then, Luther approached us, his tall, athletic frame commanding attention. Betty's eyes lit up, and she whispered to me, "Oh my god, Luther is coming over!" I felt a flutter in my chest, worried that he might mock me in front of Betty.

Before I could respond to Betty, Luther asked me, "Hi, can we talk outside for a minute?" I agreed, feeling a sense of trepidation. We stepped out of the classroom, and Luther informed me that the administrator's office needed to see me.

I asked him for directions, and he offered to show me the way. As we walked, I couldn't help but think that Luther seemed a bit abrupt and rude. However, I pushed the thought aside, focusing on the task at hand.

When we arrived at the administrator's office, Luther left without even saying goodbye. I was taken aback by his behavior, but I decided to let it go.

Inside the office, I was asked to provide some necessary documents and information. After completing the tasks, I returned to the classroom and filled Betty in on what had happened.

Betty's expression changed from a frown to a smile, and I asked her why she was suddenly smiling. She brushed it off, saying she was just thinking about something else. I sensed that she might be hiding something, but I didn't press the issue.

The next day, we received a one-month break, and I decided to use the opportunity to visit my mom and Scott. I asked Betty if she wanted to join me, but she declined, saying she had her reasons. I respected her decision and started packing my belongings.

As I packed, Betty asked me, "You really want to go so bad, isn't it?" I replied, "Yes, I do. I miss my mom and Scott so much." Betty's eyes softened, and she asked, "What about your dad?" I felt a pang of sadness, remembering my father's passing.

I replied, trying to keep my emotions in check, "Well, my dad is dead." Betty's expression turned sympathetic, and she apologized for bringing up painful memories. I reassured her that I was okay, and we continued packing.

As we finished up, Betty offered to help me carry my bags. I declined, saying I had everything under control. Betty teased me, asking why I didn't want her to help. I retorted, "You're just lazy, Betty!" We both laughed, and the tension was broken.

After getting ready, Betty escorted me to the park, where I caught a cab to head home. As I rode, I couldn't help but think about Betty and her reasons for staying on campus. I wondered what she might be hiding, but I pushed the thoughts aside, focusing on the excitement of surprising my mom and Scott.

As I planned my surprise, I felt a sense of anticipation building up inside me. I couldn't wait to see my family and share stories about my adventures at college. Little did I know, my break would bring more surprises than I had anticipated....