" You like ... no?" Serges assistant Lauren had asked Kali as she stood in front of the mirror gazing at the new patrol suit she wore.
Kali smiles towards the young woman. " yes i like it very much , I love the colors.. its just.."
she stops now still looking at the reflection before her.
" Something you'd like to change Miss Kali?" Lauren asks as she tugs the material from the sides tighening it more around the young girls middle.
Kali sighs, " no no its fine really .. its not the suit at all ... the suit is beautiful. Its just... "
she runs her fingers lightly over her tummy and down her sides.
" I just have to do something about this... " she motions to the tiny pooch of belly thats formed recently and smiles. " too many snacks i guess and too much sitting around visiting instead of patroling."
Lauren looked over the girl carefully, not seeing any extra weight. I wish I had a stomach that looked like that Lauren smiles, shaking her head at the foolishness of girls "Oh Miss Kali....You have nothing to worry about. You look great!" Lauren smiles warmly
at Kali " Let me finnish the last few seams and this will be ready for you to wear"
" Alright , that sounds great" Kali agrees. As she waits for Lauren to finnish the final touches she again looks in the mirror. Standing in her undergarments now , she mumbles to herself , " how am i going to the beach like this"
As the last touches are finnished Lauren returns with the suit..
Kali pulls the spandex creation on once more , again looking into the mirror with a bit of a frown , but quickly changing it to a smile.
" Thanks Lauren , its beautiful" The two head to the counter and Kali pays for the purchase.
" Im just going to change back into my school clothes real quick can You bag this up for me to take back to the dorms?"
Lauren follows Kali back to the dressing room and Kali quickly changes handing the suit back and dressing quickly in the skirt and blazer once more.
" there at least the blazer hides it a bit" she thinks to herself.
Returning to the counter she thanks Lauren again and leaves the Tailor shop enroute to the dorms.
Founders Falls has a wonderful downtown section Kali always loves to shop in. She glides in slowly , alighting herself atop one of the many bridges that cross the canals that link the city together.
Poppa Docks is a little store along 5th street. Its a small mom & pop shop that sells daily needs.
Newspaper and magazine racks adorn the far left wall as you enter followed by isles of Cards , gift wrap , a few small grocery isles . And lastly along the far right are medicinal needs. This is where Kali heads.
She wanders the isles a few moments before picking up a box of pills, reading the label carefully.
In bold letters printed across the front of the box it states
For The You , You Deserve To Be!
Loose 10 Pounds in 10 days Guaranteed Or Your Money Back!
100% Natural and Safe
Slim Down Faster
Surpress Your Appetite
Super Boost Your Metabolism
She smiles ," this should help"
Taking the pills towards the front counter stopping briefly to grab a cold Coke from one of the coolers near the register , as she begins to head to the counter she stops once more looking at the bottle of soda and returns to the cooler trading it for a Diet Coke.
"$7.39 ", the older woman behind the counter states matter of factly as Kali pulls the bills from her purse.
Kali takes the bag and reciept from her and thanks her.
" Have a good day" are the final words the woman utters as Kali leaves the store.
Mirror Mirror on the Wall
Moderator: Student Council
Mirror Mirror on the Wall
“Stasis Kiss: Sometimes you just have to do something drastic and shake things around a little. ”
Tuna Surprise was on the lunch menu today at St Joes.
Madam Lasinfore had been cooking the giant pans of tuna flavored wonderment all morning. Among the other sides availalbe are the ever present "salad" that has remained of questionable origin since Kali's arrival at the school , green beans , fresh warm rolls and for the more adventurous student Madam Lasinfore
had also warmed up the left overs of yesterdays vegetarian not so sloppy joes.
Kali looks across the sneeze guard that seperates the students from the food of choice and frowns,
" Whats the trouble Miss Kali , I thought you of all people would be jumping with glee! You're always first in line to pick the crunchies off the Tuna Surprise when I prepare it!" Madam Lasinfore asks with a concerned look.
" oh... its nothing .. I guess I'm just not so hungry today. " Kali pushes foreward her smile and continues " maybe just a salad today , ummm no dressing please."
Madam Lasinfore looks thoughtfully at Kali for a moment, " Alright then dear, but if you change you're mind I'll make sure to have a dish saved back for you "
The cook places a salad bowl on Kali's tray and watches as Kali slides it down the stainless steel rails toward the dessert trays. Again she stops , looks for a moment and moves on.
Next stop the cooler. As Birdseye reaches in for a chocolate milk , Kali excuses herself and makes her way past without grabbing a drink.
Most tables are full of chattering teens , discussing homework , plans for the weekend , etc. Kali opts for a quiet table in the corner of the cafeteria not normally crowded.
Placing her tray on an empty table she reaches into her bookbag and pulls out a bottle of water , sitting it too on the table the slides into her seat.
She lays her purse in her lap and carefully , without anyone seeing , reaches inside taking out a few pills from the recently bought package. Quickly she pops them into her mouth and swallows them with a drink of water.
The bag of chips Crono gave her the night before peer at her from the top of her bookbag.
" Not today" she mumbles down as she begins to chew the plain green salad before her.
The aroma of the Tuna Surprise fills the cafeteria and Kali breathes in deep for a moment. It smells so good. Madam Lasinfore always makes the best casseroles.
Unable to curb her desire for it Kali decides its best to finnish her salad outside and gathers her things to head outside.
On the commons are she sits under one of the many trees and finnishes her salad as she reads back over todays Literature assignment .
Madam Lasinfore had been cooking the giant pans of tuna flavored wonderment all morning. Among the other sides availalbe are the ever present "salad" that has remained of questionable origin since Kali's arrival at the school , green beans , fresh warm rolls and for the more adventurous student Madam Lasinfore
had also warmed up the left overs of yesterdays vegetarian not so sloppy joes.
Kali looks across the sneeze guard that seperates the students from the food of choice and frowns,
" Whats the trouble Miss Kali , I thought you of all people would be jumping with glee! You're always first in line to pick the crunchies off the Tuna Surprise when I prepare it!" Madam Lasinfore asks with a concerned look.
" oh... its nothing .. I guess I'm just not so hungry today. " Kali pushes foreward her smile and continues " maybe just a salad today , ummm no dressing please."
Madam Lasinfore looks thoughtfully at Kali for a moment, " Alright then dear, but if you change you're mind I'll make sure to have a dish saved back for you "
The cook places a salad bowl on Kali's tray and watches as Kali slides it down the stainless steel rails toward the dessert trays. Again she stops , looks for a moment and moves on.
Next stop the cooler. As Birdseye reaches in for a chocolate milk , Kali excuses herself and makes her way past without grabbing a drink.
Most tables are full of chattering teens , discussing homework , plans for the weekend , etc. Kali opts for a quiet table in the corner of the cafeteria not normally crowded.
Placing her tray on an empty table she reaches into her bookbag and pulls out a bottle of water , sitting it too on the table the slides into her seat.
She lays her purse in her lap and carefully , without anyone seeing , reaches inside taking out a few pills from the recently bought package. Quickly she pops them into her mouth and swallows them with a drink of water.
The bag of chips Crono gave her the night before peer at her from the top of her bookbag.
" Not today" she mumbles down as she begins to chew the plain green salad before her.
The aroma of the Tuna Surprise fills the cafeteria and Kali breathes in deep for a moment. It smells so good. Madam Lasinfore always makes the best casseroles.
Unable to curb her desire for it Kali decides its best to finnish her salad outside and gathers her things to head outside.
On the commons are she sits under one of the many trees and finnishes her salad as she reads back over todays Literature assignment .
“Stasis Kiss: Sometimes you just have to do something drastic and shake things around a little. ”
107 .....
The numbers stare back at Kali as she looks at the small bathroom scale .
"3 pounds.. all these stupid pills and all I have lost is 3 pounds? "
Tears well up in Kali's eyes as she realizes the dance is tonight and the beach party is drawing closer.
Turning to face the long mirror in the dorms restroom , she runs her hands slowly across her stomach and hips resting them upon her thighs for a moment.
" Gawd my legs are so fat... I can do this... I can lose a little more before the beach party. " she thinks to herself.
Kali spends the day in the gym exercising. Sit ups , Jumping Jacks , Running laps around the Gym and finally practicing cheer moves .
The school building is quiet , most of the students are out readying themselves for the dance tonight or catching up on homework.
She runs through the motions until about two hours before the dance , deciding then she should head back to the dorms , shower and get ready. Stone would be here shortly to walk her to Pocket D.
"God Kali you look great!" are the first words Stone says to her. A slight blush crosses her cheeks as she thanks Him .
The two chatter back and forth on thier walk . What classes had what happen and so forth. Small talk really , just passing the time enroute to the Dance.
After arriving Stone excuses Himself briefly to get drinks and some of the snacks Pocket D's staff had offered to provide when arrangements to hold the bash here.
J Elias approaches Kali , a smile graces His handsome face and hand extended to Kali. As she shakes His hand she thinks to herself how handsome He is. " no wonder all the girls chase after Him"
He introduces her to a few of the Bloodvine students who have arrived early. One in particular catches Kali's attention.
Sara... also known as Blazing Wrath..... Crickets cousin. As Kali smiles and makes pleasantries other encounters with Sara flood her mind. One encounter in particular. Kali fails to reach for Sara's hand in the exchange of hello's opting instead to shake the hand of Sara's date.. a pretty girl introduced as Dakota.
" nice to meet you Dakota, Im Kali" she says quietlyHer only acknowledgement of Sara is a forced smile and nod.
Luckily others are arriving and Kali turns her attention to them. Shaking hands and smiling at the other Bloodvine students as J Elias introduces them.
Stone returns with a diet coke for Kali and they make thier way to the table He has saved for them. An assortment of finger sandwiches and chips sit on two plates there.
" So whats up with you and that one girl?" He asks as she reaches ffor a potatoe wedge , dipping it in ketchup.
" can you believe how many people have showed up already! This is going to be so great!" her smile widens and eyes sparkle as she watches everyone enjoying themselves.
Kali whispers to Stone "wanna go mingle with the BVA kids? I should aleast say hellos to the ones coming in now"
"sure" Stone replies then proceeds to remove the plates and dispose of the garbage , taking Kalis hand He leads her to the dancefloor.
The night progresses nicely , Kali and Stone mingle with several others.
Eventually though Kalis anger at Sara gets the better of her and she confronts the other girl.
"Kali, is Tara coming?" Sara asks... speaking of Cricket.
As the four students stand amongst the crowded dance floor Kali ignores the question and snaps back...
"Sara... *nods to Stone* ... lets try to keep your tongue out of this ones mouth tonight " the snap is followed by a smile.
A look of shock and confussion on several faces is more than Kali can handle as she realizes what shes done.
" Im not sure i havent seen her in a few days" she finally answers Saras inquirey as to Tara.
Sara smirks at Kali and responds "Now that's not very nice is it"
Dakota looks clearly offended and Kali's only thought is to get away from the couple.
Grabbing Stones hand as He in turn leads her away.
Kali knows the others are chatting but doesnt hear whats said. All she hears is Stones shocked and concerned tone..
'"what was that all about?'"
Looking over to the dance floor , Kali scowls as she answers" thats Sara.... I ... I just .... I just dont care much for her" she answers with a stammer.
She explains to Stone how Sara had kissed Jaygo.. how hurt she had been when it happened.. He does His best to reassure her nothing like that is going to happen tonight , but Kalis insecurities are getting the better of her and she shrinks back from the crowd.
Watching the other girls on the dance floor she again begins to think how great they all look and how aweful she must look compared to them.
She watches the other boys laughing and talking to the girls, the dancing the smiling faces. All the while all she can think of is the beach and everyone in swimwear. " how am i ever going to look as good as them" her mind wanders again.
Stone once more whispers to her , careful to make sure no attention is drawn to them... " Kali? I feel like that needs to be resolved with Dakota and Sara"
The comment catches Kali off guard..
Looking at Him angrily she snaps back " in what way ? "
"well.. umm you were kind of abrupt......with good reason of course but still.." His voice is soft , clearly He doesnt mean to anger her, she can tell Hes just concerned.
Looking into His face she conceeds..
"I'll appolagize to Dakota but not to Sara.... I mean it not to Sara!"
Stone just nods sadly and leads her back to the couple. Several others are standing there chatting to the two girls and Kali stands several minutes gathering the courage to speak again.
She watches as Stone makes small talk with Dakota , the impending appology weighing heavy on her now.
Somewhere in the background she hears a boy telling someone... "Okay. Just look at yourself and then look at me. You are a Happy Meal. I am Filet Mignon. See the difference?"
" I see... Im the happy meal....theyre all the fillets" she thinks silently as she watches the chattering girls.
Taking a deep breath , she looks at Stone as He and Dakota are whispering back and forth to each other.
She steps foreward and musters her courage , finally speaking softly , her eyes downcast away from the others looking on..
" Sara... Dakota... my appologies for earlier it was uncalled for and I didnt mean it"
Saras answer surpirses her , quietly , almost as if she cared what Kali thought she replies ."I know that Kali..."
Dakota however , is understandably upset. Her reply jabs at Kalis pride , totally understood but it puts the dark haired in place quickly ...
"And, no offense, but she insults my date again, she gets a fat lip."
She looks up to see Dakota's angry gaze.
Once again Kali musters a few words .." please excuse me... Ill be right back"
She turns and hurrys away from the crowd , half running to the grils restroom and the first open stall she sees.
" how could I have done that? How could I ruin tonight for everyone!" shes silently reprimanding herself in the stall. She hasnt realized the door to the stall is open and another younger girl is at the sinks.
Falling to her knees and crying she leans over the toilet and lets her body relieve the stress shes feeling.
Often lately this has been the only way she has felt able to purge herself of problems. Almost as if emptying her body of anything and everything thats troubleing her.
" Hey... are you ok?" the girl asks.
Kali looks up suddenly.
" Im ... Im fine..." she wipes her tears and looks angrily at the younger girl now.
" would you mind getting out of here for a moment?"
" that depends.... willl you give me a present if I do?" the other girl smirks.
Looking quite annoyed Kali gives the smaller girl a shove out the door and locks the outer door so noone else can enter.
"great just what I need... an audience" she mumbles as she washes her face and tries desperatly to pull herself back together before returning to the crowd of students still dancing.
The numbers stare back at Kali as she looks at the small bathroom scale .
"3 pounds.. all these stupid pills and all I have lost is 3 pounds? "
Tears well up in Kali's eyes as she realizes the dance is tonight and the beach party is drawing closer.
Turning to face the long mirror in the dorms restroom , she runs her hands slowly across her stomach and hips resting them upon her thighs for a moment.
" Gawd my legs are so fat... I can do this... I can lose a little more before the beach party. " she thinks to herself.
Kali spends the day in the gym exercising. Sit ups , Jumping Jacks , Running laps around the Gym and finally practicing cheer moves .
The school building is quiet , most of the students are out readying themselves for the dance tonight or catching up on homework.
She runs through the motions until about two hours before the dance , deciding then she should head back to the dorms , shower and get ready. Stone would be here shortly to walk her to Pocket D.
"God Kali you look great!" are the first words Stone says to her. A slight blush crosses her cheeks as she thanks Him .
The two chatter back and forth on thier walk . What classes had what happen and so forth. Small talk really , just passing the time enroute to the Dance.
After arriving Stone excuses Himself briefly to get drinks and some of the snacks Pocket D's staff had offered to provide when arrangements to hold the bash here.
J Elias approaches Kali , a smile graces His handsome face and hand extended to Kali. As she shakes His hand she thinks to herself how handsome He is. " no wonder all the girls chase after Him"
He introduces her to a few of the Bloodvine students who have arrived early. One in particular catches Kali's attention.
Sara... also known as Blazing Wrath..... Crickets cousin. As Kali smiles and makes pleasantries other encounters with Sara flood her mind. One encounter in particular. Kali fails to reach for Sara's hand in the exchange of hello's opting instead to shake the hand of Sara's date.. a pretty girl introduced as Dakota.
" nice to meet you Dakota, Im Kali" she says quietlyHer only acknowledgement of Sara is a forced smile and nod.
Luckily others are arriving and Kali turns her attention to them. Shaking hands and smiling at the other Bloodvine students as J Elias introduces them.
Stone returns with a diet coke for Kali and they make thier way to the table He has saved for them. An assortment of finger sandwiches and chips sit on two plates there.
" So whats up with you and that one girl?" He asks as she reaches ffor a potatoe wedge , dipping it in ketchup.
" can you believe how many people have showed up already! This is going to be so great!" her smile widens and eyes sparkle as she watches everyone enjoying themselves.
Kali whispers to Stone "wanna go mingle with the BVA kids? I should aleast say hellos to the ones coming in now"
"sure" Stone replies then proceeds to remove the plates and dispose of the garbage , taking Kalis hand He leads her to the dancefloor.
The night progresses nicely , Kali and Stone mingle with several others.
Eventually though Kalis anger at Sara gets the better of her and she confronts the other girl.
"Kali, is Tara coming?" Sara asks... speaking of Cricket.
As the four students stand amongst the crowded dance floor Kali ignores the question and snaps back...
"Sara... *nods to Stone* ... lets try to keep your tongue out of this ones mouth tonight " the snap is followed by a smile.
A look of shock and confussion on several faces is more than Kali can handle as she realizes what shes done.
" Im not sure i havent seen her in a few days" she finally answers Saras inquirey as to Tara.
Sara smirks at Kali and responds "Now that's not very nice is it"
Dakota looks clearly offended and Kali's only thought is to get away from the couple.
Grabbing Stones hand as He in turn leads her away.
Kali knows the others are chatting but doesnt hear whats said. All she hears is Stones shocked and concerned tone..
'"what was that all about?'"
Looking over to the dance floor , Kali scowls as she answers" thats Sara.... I ... I just .... I just dont care much for her" she answers with a stammer.
She explains to Stone how Sara had kissed Jaygo.. how hurt she had been when it happened.. He does His best to reassure her nothing like that is going to happen tonight , but Kalis insecurities are getting the better of her and she shrinks back from the crowd.
Watching the other girls on the dance floor she again begins to think how great they all look and how aweful she must look compared to them.
She watches the other boys laughing and talking to the girls, the dancing the smiling faces. All the while all she can think of is the beach and everyone in swimwear. " how am i ever going to look as good as them" her mind wanders again.
Stone once more whispers to her , careful to make sure no attention is drawn to them... " Kali? I feel like that needs to be resolved with Dakota and Sara"
The comment catches Kali off guard..
Looking at Him angrily she snaps back " in what way ? "
"well.. umm you were kind of abrupt......with good reason of course but still.." His voice is soft , clearly He doesnt mean to anger her, she can tell Hes just concerned.
Looking into His face she conceeds..
"I'll appolagize to Dakota but not to Sara.... I mean it not to Sara!"
Stone just nods sadly and leads her back to the couple. Several others are standing there chatting to the two girls and Kali stands several minutes gathering the courage to speak again.
She watches as Stone makes small talk with Dakota , the impending appology weighing heavy on her now.
Somewhere in the background she hears a boy telling someone... "Okay. Just look at yourself and then look at me. You are a Happy Meal. I am Filet Mignon. See the difference?"
" I see... Im the happy meal....theyre all the fillets" she thinks silently as she watches the chattering girls.
Taking a deep breath , she looks at Stone as He and Dakota are whispering back and forth to each other.
She steps foreward and musters her courage , finally speaking softly , her eyes downcast away from the others looking on..
" Sara... Dakota... my appologies for earlier it was uncalled for and I didnt mean it"
Saras answer surpirses her , quietly , almost as if she cared what Kali thought she replies ."I know that Kali..."
Dakota however , is understandably upset. Her reply jabs at Kalis pride , totally understood but it puts the dark haired in place quickly ...
"And, no offense, but she insults my date again, she gets a fat lip."
She looks up to see Dakota's angry gaze.
Once again Kali musters a few words .." please excuse me... Ill be right back"
She turns and hurrys away from the crowd , half running to the grils restroom and the first open stall she sees.
" how could I have done that? How could I ruin tonight for everyone!" shes silently reprimanding herself in the stall. She hasnt realized the door to the stall is open and another younger girl is at the sinks.
Falling to her knees and crying she leans over the toilet and lets her body relieve the stress shes feeling.
Often lately this has been the only way she has felt able to purge herself of problems. Almost as if emptying her body of anything and everything thats troubleing her.
" Hey... are you ok?" the girl asks.
Kali looks up suddenly.
" Im ... Im fine..." she wipes her tears and looks angrily at the younger girl now.
" would you mind getting out of here for a moment?"
" that depends.... willl you give me a present if I do?" the other girl smirks.
Looking quite annoyed Kali gives the smaller girl a shove out the door and locks the outer door so noone else can enter.
"great just what I need... an audience" she mumbles as she washes her face and tries desperatly to pull herself back together before returning to the crowd of students still dancing.
“Stasis Kiss: Sometimes you just have to do something drastic and shake things around a little. ”
Dark circles are becoming an ever present feature under Kalis ebony colored eyes. Hiding most of it with make up so its less noticible is becoming harder by the day and she credits it with her lack of sleep.
As Cricket walks with her to through the cafeteria Kali makes an excuse to head for the restroom.
"I'll just be a few minutes... I'll catch up ok?" she says as she hurries away and smiles back to the other girl.
Inside the small room with the 3 stalls , she checks each one to be sure they're empty and goes about her normal routine . Carefully , methodically. Her body is use to this now and she no longer has to force it .
Today is different though. After her body purges the lunchrooms feast of the day , Kali begins to stand only to become woozy and lose her balance. As she falls her head hits the steel frame of the doorway rendering her uncontious for a moment.
The door to the restroom opens as Cricket bounces inside ,
"Oh Kali... i almost forgot i have to stop....." she stops mid sentance as she sees Kali on the floor. Cricket crawls under the door unlocking it from the inside , as she checks Kali she notices the scene close by and Kali's spilled purse.
"Kali? Kali... can you hear me?" Cricket says calmly as she hits her medcom and calls for assistance.
"Kali... Someones coming to take you to the infirmary... " she keeps talking softly , calmly , soothing Kali even though the other girl hasnt answered.
As she puts the few things in Kali's purse that were on the floor she notices the small white bottle that has rolled against the toilet base.
"diet pills? Kali? what are these? they're not yours right?" she asks puzzledly.
Sister Moltar enters the girls restroom followed closely behind by an on staff orderlys from the infirmary.
Cricket explains she found Kali here and the bottle she found nearby.
" Oh dear... Oh dear..." Sister moltar exclaims worriedly.
"Thank you Cricket, I will make sure to have Dr Syl check into it.
Cricket watches as Kali is taken away.
" Sister Moltar? Will she be ok? Can i go with her so someones there when she wakes up? " she asks.
"Lets wait a short bit Tara, They're taking her to the infirmary I will make sure you're allowed in as soon as possible ok?" the older woman replies with a gentle smile. " for now though , head back class and try not to worry I am sure shes fine"
Cricket watches as the Sister hurries away and makes her way down the hall. Her thoughts this hour surely wont be in class.
As Cricket walks with her to through the cafeteria Kali makes an excuse to head for the restroom.
"I'll just be a few minutes... I'll catch up ok?" she says as she hurries away and smiles back to the other girl.
Inside the small room with the 3 stalls , she checks each one to be sure they're empty and goes about her normal routine . Carefully , methodically. Her body is use to this now and she no longer has to force it .
Today is different though. After her body purges the lunchrooms feast of the day , Kali begins to stand only to become woozy and lose her balance. As she falls her head hits the steel frame of the doorway rendering her uncontious for a moment.
The door to the restroom opens as Cricket bounces inside ,
"Oh Kali... i almost forgot i have to stop....." she stops mid sentance as she sees Kali on the floor. Cricket crawls under the door unlocking it from the inside , as she checks Kali she notices the scene close by and Kali's spilled purse.
"Kali? Kali... can you hear me?" Cricket says calmly as she hits her medcom and calls for assistance.
"Kali... Someones coming to take you to the infirmary... " she keeps talking softly , calmly , soothing Kali even though the other girl hasnt answered.
As she puts the few things in Kali's purse that were on the floor she notices the small white bottle that has rolled against the toilet base.
"diet pills? Kali? what are these? they're not yours right?" she asks puzzledly.
Sister Moltar enters the girls restroom followed closely behind by an on staff orderlys from the infirmary.
Cricket explains she found Kali here and the bottle she found nearby.
" Oh dear... Oh dear..." Sister moltar exclaims worriedly.
"Thank you Cricket, I will make sure to have Dr Syl check into it.
Cricket watches as Kali is taken away.
" Sister Moltar? Will she be ok? Can i go with her so someones there when she wakes up? " she asks.
"Lets wait a short bit Tara, They're taking her to the infirmary I will make sure you're allowed in as soon as possible ok?" the older woman replies with a gentle smile. " for now though , head back class and try not to worry I am sure shes fine"
Cricket watches as the Sister hurries away and makes her way down the hall. Her thoughts this hour surely wont be in class.
“Stasis Kiss: Sometimes you just have to do something drastic and shake things around a little. ”
Doc Syl reads over the numbers on Kali's chart
Name - Kalista Jade
Age - 16 years
Height - 167.64cm
Weight - 43.54 kg
Underneath reads the notes written by the orderlies who brought the young girl in followed by Sister Moltars description at the scene. Attached in small see through bag are the bottle of pills.
One of the orderlies had awaken Kali using smelling salts earlier and the staff has been watching her since. Doc Syl and Sister Moltar both have spoken with her and compared notes afterward with the results.
" Sister , I'm not sure but i think maybe we are not equiped here to take care of kali's problem. I really think , from the numbers on her chart , and the symptoms , she needs to be seen by someone.... well ... someone in a different kind of medical field." Dr Syl begins to explain Kali's diagnosis so far.
" Kali's weight is extremely low for someone her age and height, shes dehydrated , and malnurished... I truely think maybe theres an underlying cause here that I am not equipped to treat. The diet pills , the vomit , it all points to Bulimia possibly Anorexia, I could be wrong.. but i would rather not chance this. A girl her age.. well they're very impressionable . It's best to nip this as soon as possible if i am correct." Dr Syl tells the nun.
" I don't know.. I really couldn't picture that from Kalista, she had just come from lunch. And I see her snacking quite often. I really don't think she would..." the older woman pauses as Dr Syl waves her hand cutting in.
" Thats just it Sister... girls who suffer from these disorders don't seem the type usually.
They carry on normal lives until their body finally shuts down.
Shes not to that point YET but if this is what I believe then it will soon enough.
Let me simplify this , Kalista is 5'6" , she should weigh about 120-125 pounds on average. Her weight is 96 pounds. like I said a moment ago , she also is dehydrated and showing signs of malnutrition. If we don't make sure this is checked now , she won't stop. She can't ... in her mindset she has to do this.
Please, Let me get together a report and speak with Dr Conrads about having her moved to the clinic in Paragon. I truely believe this is best in my professional opinion. "
Sister Moltar nods as she looks through the glass window into Kali's small room.
" Alright then, Dr Conrads will do what he feels is best " she agrees as she leaves to tell Cricket its ok to come visit Kali for a short bit.
Name - Kalista Jade
Age - 16 years
Height - 167.64cm
Weight - 43.54 kg
Underneath reads the notes written by the orderlies who brought the young girl in followed by Sister Moltars description at the scene. Attached in small see through bag are the bottle of pills.
One of the orderlies had awaken Kali using smelling salts earlier and the staff has been watching her since. Doc Syl and Sister Moltar both have spoken with her and compared notes afterward with the results.
" Sister , I'm not sure but i think maybe we are not equiped here to take care of kali's problem. I really think , from the numbers on her chart , and the symptoms , she needs to be seen by someone.... well ... someone in a different kind of medical field." Dr Syl begins to explain Kali's diagnosis so far.
" Kali's weight is extremely low for someone her age and height, shes dehydrated , and malnurished... I truely think maybe theres an underlying cause here that I am not equipped to treat. The diet pills , the vomit , it all points to Bulimia possibly Anorexia, I could be wrong.. but i would rather not chance this. A girl her age.. well they're very impressionable . It's best to nip this as soon as possible if i am correct." Dr Syl tells the nun.
" I don't know.. I really couldn't picture that from Kalista, she had just come from lunch. And I see her snacking quite often. I really don't think she would..." the older woman pauses as Dr Syl waves her hand cutting in.
" Thats just it Sister... girls who suffer from these disorders don't seem the type usually.
They carry on normal lives until their body finally shuts down.
Shes not to that point YET but if this is what I believe then it will soon enough.
Let me simplify this , Kalista is 5'6" , she should weigh about 120-125 pounds on average. Her weight is 96 pounds. like I said a moment ago , she also is dehydrated and showing signs of malnutrition. If we don't make sure this is checked now , she won't stop. She can't ... in her mindset she has to do this.
Please, Let me get together a report and speak with Dr Conrads about having her moved to the clinic in Paragon. I truely believe this is best in my professional opinion. "
Sister Moltar nods as she looks through the glass window into Kali's small room.
" Alright then, Dr Conrads will do what he feels is best " she agrees as she leaves to tell Cricket its ok to come visit Kali for a short bit.
“Stasis Kiss: Sometimes you just have to do something drastic and shake things around a little. ”
-
Thunder Cricket
- Posts: 148
- Joined: Fri Dec 16, 2005 4:46 pm
Tara walked into the room quietly, pausing at the sight of wires and IV's trailing from her best friend. Kali lay there unmoving in the dim light of the medical equipment. Tara walked over to the bed, trying to hold back her tears,"Why didn't she tell me...Why did't I see?",was what crossed her mind. Tara carefully got into the bed and lie beside Kali...then softly began to sing......
if you're feeling low and lost today
probably doing too much again
spend all your hours just rushing around
do you have a little time for me
slow down my love you're confusing me
if you're feeling stressed just try calling
spend your love waiting for anyone to see
do you have a little time for me
if you should stop for a while
you will find me standing by
over here, at the side of your life
I'd like to hold you still
remind you of all you've missed
if you have a little time, if you have a little time that is
why do you still run when you could walk with me
life will pass you by when you move this quickly
what can you see when you're spinning around
do you have a little time for me
if you should stop for a while
you will find me standing by
over here, at the side of your life
I'd like to hold you still
remind you of all you've missed
if you have a little time, if you have a little time that is
if you let me listen I'll make you feel clear
spend your time waiting for anyone to see
if you should stop for a while
you will find me standing by
over here, at the side of your life
I'd like to hold you still
remind you of all you've missed
if you have a little time, if you have a little time that is
The door was partially open and Doc Syl was in the doorway. She closed the door the let them have this time together.....
if you're feeling low and lost today
probably doing too much again
spend all your hours just rushing around
do you have a little time for me
slow down my love you're confusing me
if you're feeling stressed just try calling
spend your love waiting for anyone to see
do you have a little time for me
if you should stop for a while
you will find me standing by
over here, at the side of your life
I'd like to hold you still
remind you of all you've missed
if you have a little time, if you have a little time that is
why do you still run when you could walk with me
life will pass you by when you move this quickly
what can you see when you're spinning around
do you have a little time for me
if you should stop for a while
you will find me standing by
over here, at the side of your life
I'd like to hold you still
remind you of all you've missed
if you have a little time, if you have a little time that is
if you let me listen I'll make you feel clear
spend your time waiting for anyone to see
if you should stop for a while
you will find me standing by
over here, at the side of your life
I'd like to hold you still
remind you of all you've missed
if you have a little time, if you have a little time that is
The door was partially open and Doc Syl was in the doorway. She closed the door the let them have this time together.....
Tara's voice is soft and soothing and Kali closes her eyes and listens with a smile.
As Tara sings , Kali hums along softly.
" What would I do without her" Kali thinks to herself. Cricket has been her closest friend here at St Joes.
Tara ends the song and lays silent now beside Kali for a moment.
" They're sending me away you know...." Kali says bruptly, breaking the silence .
"What do you mean sending you away?" Tara asks confused and concerned.
"Dr Syl... she talked to me a little before you came in, she says I have to go to some clinic for a bit. Like a month I guess , maybe longer if it doesnt work " Kali shrugs slightly acting as if she doesn't care.
"Dr Conrads is making arrangements and they called my Dad. I don't know what alls goin on yet" she continues.
" Tara? would you do me a favor? My rooms pretty quiet now that November and Lightfall are away... noones ever there but me.... could you go in and just feed my goldfish please? maybe talk to him a lil , tell him Ill be back soon? I ... I mean ya know.. just keep him til I get back?"
Kali watches Tara's expression , Cricket has a bit of a confused look on her face at first .
" Well if thats not what you expected me to ask ... I guess I could have you do all my assignments til Im back too " Kali grins , trying to tease the other girl .
" Tara?.... C'mon.... smile... please? " Kali softly pleads to Tara , neither expecting nor understanding the ex[ression on Tara's face.
" C'mon Tara... everythings ok... I mean ... this is no big deal ya know? Im fine really... Im just tired is all... maybe some vitamins... its nothing really... I think its stupid they're making me go but they say I have to"
A soft knock sounds on the door and Dr Syl peeks in , " Ok girls , lets finnish the visit up , Kali , you need to get a little rest before you leave here. Your father should arrive in a few hours "
The door pulls back closed and Kali looks back at Cricket sadly.
As Tara sings , Kali hums along softly.
" What would I do without her" Kali thinks to herself. Cricket has been her closest friend here at St Joes.
Tara ends the song and lays silent now beside Kali for a moment.
" They're sending me away you know...." Kali says bruptly, breaking the silence .
"What do you mean sending you away?" Tara asks confused and concerned.
"Dr Syl... she talked to me a little before you came in, she says I have to go to some clinic for a bit. Like a month I guess , maybe longer if it doesnt work " Kali shrugs slightly acting as if she doesn't care.
"Dr Conrads is making arrangements and they called my Dad. I don't know what alls goin on yet" she continues.
" Tara? would you do me a favor? My rooms pretty quiet now that November and Lightfall are away... noones ever there but me.... could you go in and just feed my goldfish please? maybe talk to him a lil , tell him Ill be back soon? I ... I mean ya know.. just keep him til I get back?"
Kali watches Tara's expression , Cricket has a bit of a confused look on her face at first .
" Well if thats not what you expected me to ask ... I guess I could have you do all my assignments til Im back too " Kali grins , trying to tease the other girl .
" Tara?.... C'mon.... smile... please? " Kali softly pleads to Tara , neither expecting nor understanding the ex[ression on Tara's face.
" C'mon Tara... everythings ok... I mean ... this is no big deal ya know? Im fine really... Im just tired is all... maybe some vitamins... its nothing really... I think its stupid they're making me go but they say I have to"
A soft knock sounds on the door and Dr Syl peeks in , " Ok girls , lets finnish the visit up , Kali , you need to get a little rest before you leave here. Your father should arrive in a few hours "
The door pulls back closed and Kali looks back at Cricket sadly.
“Stasis Kiss: Sometimes you just have to do something drastic and shake things around a little. ”
((the story continues from where Kali was gone .. Im slow guys sorry this is all past tense Kalis returned presently so what youre reading is more an explantion of why she was gone and why the change in her demeanor since her return))
Kali?
Dr. Syls warm hands touch Kali's shoulder gently as she wakes the sleeping girl.
"Kali? Your fathers here... we need you to wake up and get ready to go."
Kali looks up groggily, wiping her eyes and nods.
" We will be back in just a few moments for you Kali , I'm just filling your father in on the final details and then you'll be ready to go. Be ready when we return ok?"
Dr Syl smiles gently and leaves Kali to prepare.
Changing quickly from the hospital gown to the clothes she had worn in , Kali tries not to think of the coming journey into the city. She grabs her purse and even though she knows some things have been removed she peers inside to see if maybe... just maybe they got put back.
" Dangit... I shoulda known." she mumbles seeing the pill bottle gone.
A soft knock on the door signals Dr Syls return and Kali turns to see the concerned face of her father.
"Hey honey , how are you feeling?" He asks.
" Im fine , I was just tired is all... its nothing daddy really" she smiles at Him, well aware neither He or the Dr are buying her story.
" Well..." He begins , watching Dr Syl as He proceeds cautiously." Maybe after some rest and time away from your studies things will be better. Rest always helps me when I feel stressed" He is choosing His words carefully. Almost too carefully Kali thinks.
Taking Kali's hand Mr Jade asks if theres anything else they should be bringing.
" Kali may need to stop by her dorm and grab some extra clothes, I know the clinic does some outings and she will need to have street clothes there for that." the Dr tells them .
"Yes of course... Thank you again Dr." Mr Jade answers smiling as He and Kali make thier way down the hall towards the silver Buick waiting outside.
Back at her dorm , Kali grabs several changes of clothes and extra shoes , packing them quickly into a suitcase. She also grabs her stuffed turtle and a few notebooks and pens stuffing these in the top before zipping the luggage closed.
" Bye Bloopers... I'll be back soon ok?" she tells the fish as she puts a small pinch of food into the bowl adding quickly " Dont worry , Taras going to take you to her room so you wont be lonely ok? "
Kali grabs the suitcase and returns to the car.
She wonders what this clinic will be like. How long will they make her stay and will anyone here even miss her when shes away.
She wonders if Tara will tell anyone why shes gone. She didnt even get a chance to tell anyone. What would Stone think of her dissappearing like this?
" It'll be ok ... He will be here waiting when I get back I just know it" she thinks to herself as the buick makes its way off the campus and heads into Paragon.
Conversation between Kali and her father is small talk at best. Its an uncomfortable situation and neither is sure what to say.
After several minutes Mr Jade finally breaks the silence.
"Kali... Honey I know things havent been easy for you this past year. I know theres been alot of changes for you to adjust to. But.. I guess.. I guess I just need to know... why are you making yourself sick like this?"
The bluntness of His question takes her by surprise and kali sits quiet looking out the window and away from her fathers eyes.
" Im not making myself sick" she answers.
"Kali.. don't ok.. don't shut me out and pretend nothings happening. This is very serious what you're doing!" His tone is changing now and she can sense the anger Hes trying so hard to surpress.
"Im not doing anything" she retorts defensively. " Why does everyone act like this is all me? So i threw up? Big deal! Lunch just didnt settle is all... whys everyone acting like this is such a terrible thing anyways!" Kali is getting angry too now.
" Kali we both know thats not the truth. Those pills in your purse , the weight youve lost since I saw you last? Theres alot more to this than you're admitting to. Now instead of yelling lets just talk about this " Her father tries to reason, his voice firm.
" This isnt something to do with boys is it? Because you know you dont need to do anything to change yourself. the right boy will like you for you Kali not for what you look like. or how skinny you are." He adds.
" What do you care anyways? Its not like you come around ever is it? Maybe if you were around more you would know what youre talking about huh? Kali is angry and the words are coming even as shes thinking to herself to stop. " I dont have any problems with boys ! youre just like everyone else around this place . Everyone thinks thats all I think of is boys... well its not! I could care less if boys like me or not! Who cares what boys think!" Kali is ranting as the she fights the urge to cry.
Mr Jade is surprised by kalis sudden out burst and pulls the car over to the side of the road. He faces Kali and places a gentle hand on her shoulder.
" Kalista... calm down honey. Im sorry... I didnt mean to upset you like this. And you're right... I havent been around like i should have been. I just thought you would be better continueing your studies and focusing on that part of your life right now. When this is all done... the clinic I mean... how about if we do something together? Go on a trip or something like that? A vacation? Anywhere you want to go ok?" His voice is almost pleading. He wants her to calm down.
Its now Kali realizes the tentacles are holding her again. Wrapped around her , coddeling her like mothers arms. She hadnt let that happen in a long time. She had been doing so good at not letting her powers lose unnoticed... or at least she thought she was.
The tentacles fade slowly and Kali looks up at her father. " ok daddy" is all she answers.
Kali?
Dr. Syls warm hands touch Kali's shoulder gently as she wakes the sleeping girl.
"Kali? Your fathers here... we need you to wake up and get ready to go."
Kali looks up groggily, wiping her eyes and nods.
" We will be back in just a few moments for you Kali , I'm just filling your father in on the final details and then you'll be ready to go. Be ready when we return ok?"
Dr Syl smiles gently and leaves Kali to prepare.
Changing quickly from the hospital gown to the clothes she had worn in , Kali tries not to think of the coming journey into the city. She grabs her purse and even though she knows some things have been removed she peers inside to see if maybe... just maybe they got put back.
" Dangit... I shoulda known." she mumbles seeing the pill bottle gone.
A soft knock on the door signals Dr Syls return and Kali turns to see the concerned face of her father.
"Hey honey , how are you feeling?" He asks.
" Im fine , I was just tired is all... its nothing daddy really" she smiles at Him, well aware neither He or the Dr are buying her story.
" Well..." He begins , watching Dr Syl as He proceeds cautiously." Maybe after some rest and time away from your studies things will be better. Rest always helps me when I feel stressed" He is choosing His words carefully. Almost too carefully Kali thinks.
Taking Kali's hand Mr Jade asks if theres anything else they should be bringing.
" Kali may need to stop by her dorm and grab some extra clothes, I know the clinic does some outings and she will need to have street clothes there for that." the Dr tells them .
"Yes of course... Thank you again Dr." Mr Jade answers smiling as He and Kali make thier way down the hall towards the silver Buick waiting outside.
Back at her dorm , Kali grabs several changes of clothes and extra shoes , packing them quickly into a suitcase. She also grabs her stuffed turtle and a few notebooks and pens stuffing these in the top before zipping the luggage closed.
" Bye Bloopers... I'll be back soon ok?" she tells the fish as she puts a small pinch of food into the bowl adding quickly " Dont worry , Taras going to take you to her room so you wont be lonely ok? "
Kali grabs the suitcase and returns to the car.
She wonders what this clinic will be like. How long will they make her stay and will anyone here even miss her when shes away.
She wonders if Tara will tell anyone why shes gone. She didnt even get a chance to tell anyone. What would Stone think of her dissappearing like this?
" It'll be ok ... He will be here waiting when I get back I just know it" she thinks to herself as the buick makes its way off the campus and heads into Paragon.
Conversation between Kali and her father is small talk at best. Its an uncomfortable situation and neither is sure what to say.
After several minutes Mr Jade finally breaks the silence.
"Kali... Honey I know things havent been easy for you this past year. I know theres been alot of changes for you to adjust to. But.. I guess.. I guess I just need to know... why are you making yourself sick like this?"
The bluntness of His question takes her by surprise and kali sits quiet looking out the window and away from her fathers eyes.
" Im not making myself sick" she answers.
"Kali.. don't ok.. don't shut me out and pretend nothings happening. This is very serious what you're doing!" His tone is changing now and she can sense the anger Hes trying so hard to surpress.
"Im not doing anything" she retorts defensively. " Why does everyone act like this is all me? So i threw up? Big deal! Lunch just didnt settle is all... whys everyone acting like this is such a terrible thing anyways!" Kali is getting angry too now.
" Kali we both know thats not the truth. Those pills in your purse , the weight youve lost since I saw you last? Theres alot more to this than you're admitting to. Now instead of yelling lets just talk about this " Her father tries to reason, his voice firm.
" This isnt something to do with boys is it? Because you know you dont need to do anything to change yourself. the right boy will like you for you Kali not for what you look like. or how skinny you are." He adds.
" What do you care anyways? Its not like you come around ever is it? Maybe if you were around more you would know what youre talking about huh? Kali is angry and the words are coming even as shes thinking to herself to stop. " I dont have any problems with boys ! youre just like everyone else around this place . Everyone thinks thats all I think of is boys... well its not! I could care less if boys like me or not! Who cares what boys think!" Kali is ranting as the she fights the urge to cry.
Mr Jade is surprised by kalis sudden out burst and pulls the car over to the side of the road. He faces Kali and places a gentle hand on her shoulder.
" Kalista... calm down honey. Im sorry... I didnt mean to upset you like this. And you're right... I havent been around like i should have been. I just thought you would be better continueing your studies and focusing on that part of your life right now. When this is all done... the clinic I mean... how about if we do something together? Go on a trip or something like that? A vacation? Anywhere you want to go ok?" His voice is almost pleading. He wants her to calm down.
Its now Kali realizes the tentacles are holding her again. Wrapped around her , coddeling her like mothers arms. She hadnt let that happen in a long time. She had been doing so good at not letting her powers lose unnoticed... or at least she thought she was.
The tentacles fade slowly and Kali looks up at her father. " ok daddy" is all she answers.
“Stasis Kiss: Sometimes you just have to do something drastic and shake things around a little. ”
8:00-9:00am - Breakfast
9:00-10:00am - morning group ( Healthy relationships ) with Dr.Angela Weisftman
10:00-10:30 am - Snack break
10:30am -12:00pm - Goals and Achievements with Dr. Lisa Miller
12:00pm - 1:00pm - Lunch and Meal Process
1:00 - 3:00pm - ( Monday , Wed , Fridays = Self Care and Theraputic Recreation) Tues , Thursdays = Relapse Prevention Therepy)
3:00-3:30pm = Snack break
3:30-4:30pm - Readiness for Change and Spirituality with Nancy Hoffman ( Guest Speakers once a week TBA)
4:30-5:00pm- Personal Reflection Time
5:00-6:00pm - Dinner and Meal Process
6:00- 6:30 - Aftercare Group
6:30 - 8:30pm - Family & Friend visits / Personal Reflection Time
Kali sat in Nancy Hoffmans office staring at the large Marker board with the schedule written in bright marker across it.
She still couldn't believe they had made her come here. She glanced over toward the doorway where her father stood quietly talking to Mrs. Hoffman and another woman wearing a name tag Kali couldn't see.
Every moment of her waking hours for the next 30 days would be structured and watched by these people. Strangers.... People who knew nothing more about her than a physicians report and her fathers smooth words as He played the doting daddy. Seemingly so concerned for his daughters well being.
Kali knew different. It was just a new place to drop her off and forget her. Just like St Joes.
How long this time? she wondered. Sure they're saying just a month , less if she showed serious effort at getting better , with the promise of a trip afterwards with her father. "Just you and me Kali" he had said. Maybe this time He meant it . She hoped so anyways.
The three adults returned and sat at the table with her. A circluar table in the center of a meeting room that was apparently used for several things during the course of a day.
Mrs. Hoffman smiled at Kali as she passed a sheet of paper with the same schedule typed neatly for her to keep.
" This is our normal itinerary Kalista" she told her. " Some days it varies but we try to stick to this to the most part."
As Kali looked at the times and things that would become her new daily routine she looked up to her father, " Daddy? you'll be here for visits right?" she asked. A slight hint of hopefullness in her voice.
" As often as I can sweety" He replied with a smile as he patted her hand.
yup... another drop off point , He won't come is all Kali could think .
Mrs.Hoffman introduced Karen Matson to her left. "Miss Matson is an residential intern here with us , if you ever need to talk , she is here 24 hours everyday except Wednesdays and Sundays. Those two days I myself will be available eveninings as well as my normal schedule."
After what seemed like hours but was in all actuality only slightly more than 45 minutes , Mrs. Hoffman announced Miss Matson would take Kali to her room and help her get settled in and meet the others while Mr. Jade finnished the admitance paperwork.
Kali picked up her bags and followed the young intern.
9:00-10:00am - morning group ( Healthy relationships ) with Dr.Angela Weisftman
10:00-10:30 am - Snack break
10:30am -12:00pm - Goals and Achievements with Dr. Lisa Miller
12:00pm - 1:00pm - Lunch and Meal Process
1:00 - 3:00pm - ( Monday , Wed , Fridays = Self Care and Theraputic Recreation) Tues , Thursdays = Relapse Prevention Therepy)
3:00-3:30pm = Snack break
3:30-4:30pm - Readiness for Change and Spirituality with Nancy Hoffman ( Guest Speakers once a week TBA)
4:30-5:00pm- Personal Reflection Time
5:00-6:00pm - Dinner and Meal Process
6:00- 6:30 - Aftercare Group
6:30 - 8:30pm - Family & Friend visits / Personal Reflection Time
Kali sat in Nancy Hoffmans office staring at the large Marker board with the schedule written in bright marker across it.
She still couldn't believe they had made her come here. She glanced over toward the doorway where her father stood quietly talking to Mrs. Hoffman and another woman wearing a name tag Kali couldn't see.
Every moment of her waking hours for the next 30 days would be structured and watched by these people. Strangers.... People who knew nothing more about her than a physicians report and her fathers smooth words as He played the doting daddy. Seemingly so concerned for his daughters well being.
Kali knew different. It was just a new place to drop her off and forget her. Just like St Joes.
How long this time? she wondered. Sure they're saying just a month , less if she showed serious effort at getting better , with the promise of a trip afterwards with her father. "Just you and me Kali" he had said. Maybe this time He meant it . She hoped so anyways.
The three adults returned and sat at the table with her. A circluar table in the center of a meeting room that was apparently used for several things during the course of a day.
Mrs. Hoffman smiled at Kali as she passed a sheet of paper with the same schedule typed neatly for her to keep.
" This is our normal itinerary Kalista" she told her. " Some days it varies but we try to stick to this to the most part."
As Kali looked at the times and things that would become her new daily routine she looked up to her father, " Daddy? you'll be here for visits right?" she asked. A slight hint of hopefullness in her voice.
" As often as I can sweety" He replied with a smile as he patted her hand.
yup... another drop off point , He won't come is all Kali could think .
Mrs.Hoffman introduced Karen Matson to her left. "Miss Matson is an residential intern here with us , if you ever need to talk , she is here 24 hours everyday except Wednesdays and Sundays. Those two days I myself will be available eveninings as well as my normal schedule."
After what seemed like hours but was in all actuality only slightly more than 45 minutes , Mrs. Hoffman announced Miss Matson would take Kali to her room and help her get settled in and meet the others while Mr. Jade finnished the admitance paperwork.
Kali picked up her bags and followed the young intern.
“Stasis Kiss: Sometimes you just have to do something drastic and shake things around a little. ”
Its a small room , much smaller than her room at St Joes.
The room is decorated sparsley much like a hospital room. Two beds , one on each side of the room , a night stand for each. Twin closets and dressers . No television , radio or phone.
She looks at the bleakness surrounding her. White walls , the dark blue flat industrial carpet. Only one picture on the walls, an ocean scene with footprints in the sand but no people. At least she could pretend they were hers she thought.
Miss Matson gestured toward the bed on the left side of the room. That will be yours Kalista, along with the left dresser and closet area.
"Marra is your roommate , you'll meet her shortly shes in group right now."
Kali just nods staring blankly at the room.
Miss Matson continues in a low somewhat monotone voice,
" Is there anything else you need Kali? "
Kali shakes her head no and Miss Matson leaves her to unpack.
" I'll be back shortly and we can tour the facility and get you started " she smiles briefly as she leaves the room.
As she unpacks and hangs her clothes she wonders what this Marra is like, will they get along? She hopes so... a month with a person you dont like just would make it worse.
The intern returns and Kali follows her lead through the building, only half listening to the explanation of what was what and who was who.
In the last room , the two sit quietly in the rear seats waiting for the group to finnish thier discussion before Miss Matson introduces Kali to the others.
"Kali this Dr Miller , I'll be leaving you here and Marra will show you to your next group."
"Marra? " Kali asked puzzled , she hadn't even met the girl yet , how would she know who to follow?
Miss Matson motions toward another girl , and the other girl approaches.
"Marra this is Kali , shes your new roommate . You'll need to show her to the cafeteria after and to her groups throughout the afternoon please."
The other girl nods without speaking and Miss Matson smiles and departs.
Marra is a pretty girl with toffee colored skin and big brown eyes that are like doe eyes.
Her demeanor is more of a "I dont care" attitude then anything from what Kali can tell so far.
"Thanks in advance for showing me around " Kali tells the other girl with a smile... attempting to break the ice.
" Yea , well its not like I get a choice or have anything better to do now is it?" Marra scoffs.
" C'mon girl , groups over in 15 minutes and then I'll show you where todays crapfeast of the day is."
Kali giggles a bit , even with Marra's attitude she thinks maybe she will like her. Marra obviously isnt any more thrilled with being here than Kali is.
Group ends shortly after Kali's introduction and hellos , and Marra motion for her to follow.
" C'mon lets go . So like whats with the spots? You got some skin disease or something?" Marra asks bluntly catching Kali off guard.
"oh umm.. no ... no disease.. just ... kinda like over zealous freckles I guess you'd say" she answers trying to ease past the issue .
" yea well them are some damn over zealous ones all right " Marra anwers with a grin.
Kali just smiles and follows slightly more behind now.
The two girls wander through the food line and carry thier trays back to a table .
Kali notices none of the other girls come to the table with them.
Marra doesnt talk much , and picks at her food terribly.
Glancing up at her , Kali wonders why the other girl is here. She doesnt look too skinny. She has a narrow jawline, slender neck... but not anything dramaticly thin.
Kali thinks she looks like a model. She is taller than Kali , slender with catlike features. She reminds her of the cheetahs she has seen on tv. Slinky and graceful when she walks.
" So how'd you get caught?" Marra asks suddenly catching Kali by surprise.
" Caught?" Kali is puzzled by the question.
Marra scoffs again. " yea... caught... you know... it ain't like you got sent here for nothing."
"Oh.. no I didnt get caught ... I just got sick is all" Kali answers trying to avoid the question.
"yea whatever" Marra retorts.
The two are silent again and Kali finally asks,
" what about you? "
"I got sick too" Marra answers with a grin.
Kali giggles and the two finally start some small talk, learning a lil about each other in the short break before next session.
Listening to her she reminds Kali of Jubilation from St Joes. She doesnt look anything like Jubi , but something about her reminds her of her lost freind.
"Is it rush , rush like this all the time?" Kali asks.
"yea they try to keep you occupied so you dont think about things I guess" Marra shrugs.
They empty thier trays and Marra shows her onto the next group.
The day progresses and the two make thier way through the rest of group until the evening visit and personal reflection time.
"Well I'll see you later after your visit, you know your way back to the room?" Marra asks.
"yea but.. I wont have a visit i'm sure" Kali adds."I think my dad left right after we finnished this morning"
"Yea well whatever... see ya" Marra adds as they part ways and Kali wanders into the visitors room to wait for a father she knows isnt coming.
"Day 1 down 29 to go" Kali thinks with a sigh.
The room is decorated sparsley much like a hospital room. Two beds , one on each side of the room , a night stand for each. Twin closets and dressers . No television , radio or phone.
She looks at the bleakness surrounding her. White walls , the dark blue flat industrial carpet. Only one picture on the walls, an ocean scene with footprints in the sand but no people. At least she could pretend they were hers she thought.
Miss Matson gestured toward the bed on the left side of the room. That will be yours Kalista, along with the left dresser and closet area.
"Marra is your roommate , you'll meet her shortly shes in group right now."
Kali just nods staring blankly at the room.
Miss Matson continues in a low somewhat monotone voice,
" Is there anything else you need Kali? "
Kali shakes her head no and Miss Matson leaves her to unpack.
" I'll be back shortly and we can tour the facility and get you started " she smiles briefly as she leaves the room.
As she unpacks and hangs her clothes she wonders what this Marra is like, will they get along? She hopes so... a month with a person you dont like just would make it worse.
The intern returns and Kali follows her lead through the building, only half listening to the explanation of what was what and who was who.
In the last room , the two sit quietly in the rear seats waiting for the group to finnish thier discussion before Miss Matson introduces Kali to the others.
"Kali this Dr Miller , I'll be leaving you here and Marra will show you to your next group."
"Marra? " Kali asked puzzled , she hadn't even met the girl yet , how would she know who to follow?
Miss Matson motions toward another girl , and the other girl approaches.
"Marra this is Kali , shes your new roommate . You'll need to show her to the cafeteria after and to her groups throughout the afternoon please."
The other girl nods without speaking and Miss Matson smiles and departs.
Marra is a pretty girl with toffee colored skin and big brown eyes that are like doe eyes.
Her demeanor is more of a "I dont care" attitude then anything from what Kali can tell so far.
"Thanks in advance for showing me around " Kali tells the other girl with a smile... attempting to break the ice.
" Yea , well its not like I get a choice or have anything better to do now is it?" Marra scoffs.
" C'mon girl , groups over in 15 minutes and then I'll show you where todays crapfeast of the day is."
Kali giggles a bit , even with Marra's attitude she thinks maybe she will like her. Marra obviously isnt any more thrilled with being here than Kali is.
Group ends shortly after Kali's introduction and hellos , and Marra motion for her to follow.
" C'mon lets go . So like whats with the spots? You got some skin disease or something?" Marra asks bluntly catching Kali off guard.
"oh umm.. no ... no disease.. just ... kinda like over zealous freckles I guess you'd say" she answers trying to ease past the issue .
" yea well them are some damn over zealous ones all right " Marra anwers with a grin.
Kali just smiles and follows slightly more behind now.
The two girls wander through the food line and carry thier trays back to a table .
Kali notices none of the other girls come to the table with them.
Marra doesnt talk much , and picks at her food terribly.
Glancing up at her , Kali wonders why the other girl is here. She doesnt look too skinny. She has a narrow jawline, slender neck... but not anything dramaticly thin.
Kali thinks she looks like a model. She is taller than Kali , slender with catlike features. She reminds her of the cheetahs she has seen on tv. Slinky and graceful when she walks.
" So how'd you get caught?" Marra asks suddenly catching Kali by surprise.
" Caught?" Kali is puzzled by the question.
Marra scoffs again. " yea... caught... you know... it ain't like you got sent here for nothing."
"Oh.. no I didnt get caught ... I just got sick is all" Kali answers trying to avoid the question.
"yea whatever" Marra retorts.
The two are silent again and Kali finally asks,
" what about you? "
"I got sick too" Marra answers with a grin.
Kali giggles and the two finally start some small talk, learning a lil about each other in the short break before next session.
Listening to her she reminds Kali of Jubilation from St Joes. She doesnt look anything like Jubi , but something about her reminds her of her lost freind.
"Is it rush , rush like this all the time?" Kali asks.
"yea they try to keep you occupied so you dont think about things I guess" Marra shrugs.
They empty thier trays and Marra shows her onto the next group.
The day progresses and the two make thier way through the rest of group until the evening visit and personal reflection time.
"Well I'll see you later after your visit, you know your way back to the room?" Marra asks.
"yea but.. I wont have a visit i'm sure" Kali adds."I think my dad left right after we finnished this morning"
"Yea well whatever... see ya" Marra adds as they part ways and Kali wanders into the visitors room to wait for a father she knows isnt coming.
"Day 1 down 29 to go" Kali thinks with a sigh.
“Stasis Kiss: Sometimes you just have to do something drastic and shake things around a little. ”
Two weeks have passed. Kali's time is passing by too slowly for her.
" When's your time up Marra?" Kali asks curiously.
" 6 more days" Marra answers non-chalantly , as if it's no big deal to her.
Kali sits staring out the window. She wonders what it will be like for her to show the next girl around who shares her room.
" What's the first thing you're gonna do when you get home?" Kali asks.
"Probibly argue with my moms" Marra replies with a grin." How about you Kal? Whats your plan?"
" I dunno yet... I guess... see if I still have a room... dodge a million zillion questions about where I been ... stuff I guess" Kali answers with a shrug. Her answer is vague at best , her tone distant.
She hasn't really thought about what she will do when she returns to St Joes.
"Oh c'mon...You're going to do everything you talked about here , you'll try out for cheerleading , see your football hero boyfriend , hang out with your friends , all that goodie two shoes crap" Marra chides as she smiles at Kali.
"Maybe.. maybe not... Maybe i'll give all that up and become a whiney depressed goth chick , stalking the halls wearing all my black clothes , brooding endlessly..."
Kali's cut off when Marra cuts in
" You already do whine and brood and wear black so what will change?
Kali breaks out in laughter as Marra rolls her eyes and laughs.
" Where did you decide to go with your pops?" Marra asks , trying to change the school subject.
"I asked to go to that new theme park , I love roller coasters and stuff. He said we could He even said I could bring someone else! Maybe we can pick you up since you'll be home alreaady Marra?" Kali asks hopefully. Shes become quite close to Marra in the short time they've known each other.
" oh I don't know Kal, I'd like to , really i would. But see my moms... she's going to want to keep me close probibly for awhile. Least she did before you know." Marra answers sadly.
"Before? whatcha mean before?" Kali asks curiously.
" This is my second time here " Marra answers then quickly continues before Kali can say anything more
" Don't look at me like that Kal, you'll end up back too! Everyone does you know, after you go home it's the same shit all over and you'll be back"
Without another word Marra storms out of the room into the hall.
I'll never come back... never ever Kali silently tells herself nothing will ever cause me to come back
She continues to stare out the window , wondering what everyone back home at St Joes is doing.
Closing her eyes she pictures Cricket , sitting beside her in the infirmary , singing quietly to her.
Oby and Alex running across the football field as Coach hollers orders at them. Stasis sitting beside her comparing boots. Jack hiding her shoes in his pockets. Eric bouncing around excitedly , jabbering a mile a minute as she tries to keep up. Eshy and Crono whispering back and forth in class.Biff , Tolliver , Jack and the guys bullying the next poor soul unlucky enough to pass them in the hall. Franky and Jaz doing whatever it is goth chicks do when they whisper back and forth to each other across the lunch counter before taking thier trays outside
Mimi , working so hard on the latest Student Council report.
nope... I'm never coming back here
The familiar music of the song "Beautiful " comes over the speakers signaling personal reflection time is over. Time to go back to the grind.
Kali hums along as the words play in her head.
Every day is so wonderful
And suddenly, i saw debris
Now and then, I get insecure
From all the pain, I'm so ashamed
I am beautiful no matter what they say
Words can't bring me down
I am beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can't bring me down
So don't you bring me down today
To all your friends, you're delirious
So consumed in all your doom
Trying hard to fill the emptiness
The piece is gone left the puzzle undone
That's the way it is
You are beautiful no matter what they say
Words can't bring you down
You are beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can't bring you down
Don't you bring me down today...
No matter what we do
(no matter what we do)
No matter what they say
(no matter what they say)
When the sun is shining through
Then the clouds won't stay
And everywhere we go
(everywhere we go)
The sun won't always shine
(sun won't always shine)
But tomorrow will find a way
All the other times
'cause we are beautiful no matter what they say
Yes, words won't bring us down, oh no
We are beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can't bring us down
Don't you bring me down today
Don't you bring me down today
Don't you bring me down today
Two more weeks... One week til shes sitting in Marras place. Breaking in the next new girl. Kali grabs her notebook and heads out to find Marra for class.
" When's your time up Marra?" Kali asks curiously.
" 6 more days" Marra answers non-chalantly , as if it's no big deal to her.
Kali sits staring out the window. She wonders what it will be like for her to show the next girl around who shares her room.
" What's the first thing you're gonna do when you get home?" Kali asks.
"Probibly argue with my moms" Marra replies with a grin." How about you Kal? Whats your plan?"
" I dunno yet... I guess... see if I still have a room... dodge a million zillion questions about where I been ... stuff I guess" Kali answers with a shrug. Her answer is vague at best , her tone distant.
She hasn't really thought about what she will do when she returns to St Joes.
"Oh c'mon...You're going to do everything you talked about here , you'll try out for cheerleading , see your football hero boyfriend , hang out with your friends , all that goodie two shoes crap" Marra chides as she smiles at Kali.
"Maybe.. maybe not... Maybe i'll give all that up and become a whiney depressed goth chick , stalking the halls wearing all my black clothes , brooding endlessly..."
Kali's cut off when Marra cuts in
" You already do whine and brood and wear black so what will change?
Kali breaks out in laughter as Marra rolls her eyes and laughs.
" Where did you decide to go with your pops?" Marra asks , trying to change the school subject.
"I asked to go to that new theme park , I love roller coasters and stuff. He said we could He even said I could bring someone else! Maybe we can pick you up since you'll be home alreaady Marra?" Kali asks hopefully. Shes become quite close to Marra in the short time they've known each other.
" oh I don't know Kal, I'd like to , really i would. But see my moms... she's going to want to keep me close probibly for awhile. Least she did before you know." Marra answers sadly.
"Before? whatcha mean before?" Kali asks curiously.
" This is my second time here " Marra answers then quickly continues before Kali can say anything more
" Don't look at me like that Kal, you'll end up back too! Everyone does you know, after you go home it's the same shit all over and you'll be back"
Without another word Marra storms out of the room into the hall.
I'll never come back... never ever Kali silently tells herself nothing will ever cause me to come back
She continues to stare out the window , wondering what everyone back home at St Joes is doing.
Closing her eyes she pictures Cricket , sitting beside her in the infirmary , singing quietly to her.
Oby and Alex running across the football field as Coach hollers orders at them. Stasis sitting beside her comparing boots. Jack hiding her shoes in his pockets. Eric bouncing around excitedly , jabbering a mile a minute as she tries to keep up. Eshy and Crono whispering back and forth in class.Biff , Tolliver , Jack and the guys bullying the next poor soul unlucky enough to pass them in the hall. Franky and Jaz doing whatever it is goth chicks do when they whisper back and forth to each other across the lunch counter before taking thier trays outside
Mimi , working so hard on the latest Student Council report.
nope... I'm never coming back here
The familiar music of the song "Beautiful " comes over the speakers signaling personal reflection time is over. Time to go back to the grind.
Kali hums along as the words play in her head.
Every day is so wonderful
And suddenly, i saw debris
Now and then, I get insecure
From all the pain, I'm so ashamed
I am beautiful no matter what they say
Words can't bring me down
I am beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can't bring me down
So don't you bring me down today
To all your friends, you're delirious
So consumed in all your doom
Trying hard to fill the emptiness
The piece is gone left the puzzle undone
That's the way it is
You are beautiful no matter what they say
Words can't bring you down
You are beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can't bring you down
Don't you bring me down today...
No matter what we do
(no matter what we do)
No matter what they say
(no matter what they say)
When the sun is shining through
Then the clouds won't stay
And everywhere we go
(everywhere we go)
The sun won't always shine
(sun won't always shine)
But tomorrow will find a way
All the other times
'cause we are beautiful no matter what they say
Yes, words won't bring us down, oh no
We are beautiful in every single way
Yes, words can't bring us down
Don't you bring me down today
Don't you bring me down today
Don't you bring me down today
Two more weeks... One week til shes sitting in Marras place. Breaking in the next new girl. Kali grabs her notebook and heads out to find Marra for class.
“Stasis Kiss: Sometimes you just have to do something drastic and shake things around a little. ”
The last two weeks have dragged by . No new roomie like she had hoped for. Just herself in the small quiet room.
Tomorrow though its time to reenter the real world again.
Kali is excited about her upcoming trip with her father and even more excited that Marra's mother has gave permission for her to make the trip as well.
She has packed and repacked her few things several times now, checking and rechecking to make sure everythings there and nothings left behind.
A light rap on the door takes her attention away .
"Kali? " Miss Matson says quietly through the doorway.
" Kali theres a call for you in the office... its your father"
Kalis heart suddenly feels as if its dropped to the pit of her stomach as she makes her way to the office and the phonecall she doesn't want to answer.
" Hello daddy.." her voice is very soft.
" Kali , princess... I'm sorry it's so late honey but I just found out I'm being sent out tomorrow to a conferance on genetic testing... I'm afraid we are going to have to postpone our trip. But don't be upset honey I called your mother and all the arrangements for you to visit her will be in place by morning. You'll go there for 2 weeks before returning to school. Isn't that going to be great ! I know how much you enjoyed your last visit and with such short notice on this I thought maybe that would make a nice surprise for you."
He's still talking , but the words are just noise in Kali's ears. She doesn't listen to them .
" Ok daddy... goodbye" she adds as she lays the phone back into its cradled spot.
Miss Matson looks at Kali concerned..." is everything ok Kali?"
With her best pretend smile Kali answers " Oh yes Miss Matson everythings just like always... fine"
Kali then calls Marra to break the bad news as she fights the urge to cry .. scream...and throw things at a nearby wall.
"Im sorry marra.. daddy says He will reschedule the trip. If you want to come to my moms with me i'm sure she won't mind... I can call her in the morning and let you know"
Marra passes on the offer and thanks Kali for letting her know. Kali is crushed by the dissappointment in the other girls voice.
Returning to her room Kali settles in for the night. Tomorrow she will see how things go.
Tuesday morning. Standing with Miss Matson in the terminal, Kali watches the familiar scene around her. A new place, but the same events as before around her. People hustling around to make thier bus's, grabbing luggage. Others just arriving , being greeted by loved ones.
The intercom at the bus station announces the final boarding for the Greyhound bus to Sante Fe New Mexico as Kali says her goodbyes to Miss Matson .
" You take care of yourself Kali" the woman says as she hugs Kali and watches her head towards the driver.
" Excuse me Sir?" she says softly as she approaches .
" You looking to board this bus Miss? " The grey haired portly man asks.
Something about the mans smile eases her tension and Kali smiles back.
" yes Sir, sorry for being last minute and all"
" No problem there little lady , happens alot. You have your ticket ready?" He asks as he slides the 2 travel bags into the luggage compartment.
" oh yes... right here..." she hands them to him taking back what he tears away and boards the bus as He instructs.
As she walks down the isle looking for a seat her eyes scan the patrons already seated , reading what she can from each ones emotions.
An older woman , mid to late 50s seated alone looking blankly out the window is where she chooses.
" may I sit here Ma'am?" Kali asks timidly.
The woman looks up, " its empty so i suppose you can" she answers and smiles briefly before returning her gaze to the window outside.
Kali sits cautiously, still trying to read everyone. I'm trying to hard... theres too many too close she thinks to herself.
The bus rolls along the highway and Kali manages to turn her thoughts only to the woman next to her. Theres something different about her. Something Kali can't place.
Several hours pass and Kali closes her eyes and fades into a light sleep, comforted by the gentle rocking of the bus as it travels.
In her sleepy state she forgets the rest of the people here, thinking only about seeing her mother again.
"It's not polite to try getting into other peoples thoughts you know . Some people like that little bit of privacy. You would do well to remember that"
Kali's eyes jolt open and she turns to see the older woman looking at her.
" I'm ... I'm sorry... did you say something?" Kali asks , rubbing her eyes and still a bit groggy.
The womans mouth doesnt move and yet Kali hears her plain as day.
" I said...It's not polite to try getting into other peoples thoughts" the words are clear to Kali.
" yes i know you hear me... and now you know I know what you were doing also" the voice continues.
" Don't do it again... You're not the only one that has the gift"
Kalis cheeks flush red and she looks down at the floor.
"I'm sorry Ma'am... i meant no disrespect" she whispers quietly.
Shocked at what the womans said kali looks up at her.
" Yes Ma'am , but... I cant read thoughts... only emotions.. I just wanted to sit someplace quiet is all " she whispers again , careful to be quiet so the others on the bus dont think shes talking to herself.
The older woman nods to Kali silently and turns her head back toward the window. Seemingly content with Kali's answer.
this is going to be a long long trip already Kali thinks to herself as she again closes her eyes and hopes to sleep through as much of it a she can.
Thats it... sleep child... I'll let you know when we get close the womans voice is in her thoughts again. This time soothing , not angry like a moment ago.
The bus rolls along , and Kali sleeps, the womans hand now resting gently on top her own.
Tomorrow though its time to reenter the real world again.
Kali is excited about her upcoming trip with her father and even more excited that Marra's mother has gave permission for her to make the trip as well.
She has packed and repacked her few things several times now, checking and rechecking to make sure everythings there and nothings left behind.
A light rap on the door takes her attention away .
"Kali? " Miss Matson says quietly through the doorway.
" Kali theres a call for you in the office... its your father"
Kalis heart suddenly feels as if its dropped to the pit of her stomach as she makes her way to the office and the phonecall she doesn't want to answer.
" Hello daddy.." her voice is very soft.
" Kali , princess... I'm sorry it's so late honey but I just found out I'm being sent out tomorrow to a conferance on genetic testing... I'm afraid we are going to have to postpone our trip. But don't be upset honey I called your mother and all the arrangements for you to visit her will be in place by morning. You'll go there for 2 weeks before returning to school. Isn't that going to be great ! I know how much you enjoyed your last visit and with such short notice on this I thought maybe that would make a nice surprise for you."
He's still talking , but the words are just noise in Kali's ears. She doesn't listen to them .
" Ok daddy... goodbye" she adds as she lays the phone back into its cradled spot.
Miss Matson looks at Kali concerned..." is everything ok Kali?"
With her best pretend smile Kali answers " Oh yes Miss Matson everythings just like always... fine"
Kali then calls Marra to break the bad news as she fights the urge to cry .. scream...and throw things at a nearby wall.
"Im sorry marra.. daddy says He will reschedule the trip. If you want to come to my moms with me i'm sure she won't mind... I can call her in the morning and let you know"
Marra passes on the offer and thanks Kali for letting her know. Kali is crushed by the dissappointment in the other girls voice.
Returning to her room Kali settles in for the night. Tomorrow she will see how things go.
Tuesday morning. Standing with Miss Matson in the terminal, Kali watches the familiar scene around her. A new place, but the same events as before around her. People hustling around to make thier bus's, grabbing luggage. Others just arriving , being greeted by loved ones.
The intercom at the bus station announces the final boarding for the Greyhound bus to Sante Fe New Mexico as Kali says her goodbyes to Miss Matson .
" You take care of yourself Kali" the woman says as she hugs Kali and watches her head towards the driver.
" Excuse me Sir?" she says softly as she approaches .
" You looking to board this bus Miss? " The grey haired portly man asks.
Something about the mans smile eases her tension and Kali smiles back.
" yes Sir, sorry for being last minute and all"
" No problem there little lady , happens alot. You have your ticket ready?" He asks as he slides the 2 travel bags into the luggage compartment.
" oh yes... right here..." she hands them to him taking back what he tears away and boards the bus as He instructs.
As she walks down the isle looking for a seat her eyes scan the patrons already seated , reading what she can from each ones emotions.
An older woman , mid to late 50s seated alone looking blankly out the window is where she chooses.
" may I sit here Ma'am?" Kali asks timidly.
The woman looks up, " its empty so i suppose you can" she answers and smiles briefly before returning her gaze to the window outside.
Kali sits cautiously, still trying to read everyone. I'm trying to hard... theres too many too close she thinks to herself.
The bus rolls along the highway and Kali manages to turn her thoughts only to the woman next to her. Theres something different about her. Something Kali can't place.
Several hours pass and Kali closes her eyes and fades into a light sleep, comforted by the gentle rocking of the bus as it travels.
In her sleepy state she forgets the rest of the people here, thinking only about seeing her mother again.
"It's not polite to try getting into other peoples thoughts you know . Some people like that little bit of privacy. You would do well to remember that"
Kali's eyes jolt open and she turns to see the older woman looking at her.
" I'm ... I'm sorry... did you say something?" Kali asks , rubbing her eyes and still a bit groggy.
The womans mouth doesnt move and yet Kali hears her plain as day.
" I said...It's not polite to try getting into other peoples thoughts" the words are clear to Kali.
" yes i know you hear me... and now you know I know what you were doing also" the voice continues.
" Don't do it again... You're not the only one that has the gift"
Kalis cheeks flush red and she looks down at the floor.
"I'm sorry Ma'am... i meant no disrespect" she whispers quietly.
Shocked at what the womans said kali looks up at her.
" Yes Ma'am , but... I cant read thoughts... only emotions.. I just wanted to sit someplace quiet is all " she whispers again , careful to be quiet so the others on the bus dont think shes talking to herself.
The older woman nods to Kali silently and turns her head back toward the window. Seemingly content with Kali's answer.
this is going to be a long long trip already Kali thinks to herself as she again closes her eyes and hopes to sleep through as much of it a she can.
Thats it... sleep child... I'll let you know when we get close the womans voice is in her thoughts again. This time soothing , not angry like a moment ago.
The bus rolls along , and Kali sleeps, the womans hand now resting gently on top her own.
“Stasis Kiss: Sometimes you just have to do something drastic and shake things around a little. ”
Its been a long ride to New Mexico.
The Older woman next to her has mothered her the entire trip. Made sure she ate when they stopped , escorted her on and off the bus during fueling stops.
Kali had learned about the woman , not much but enough .
Her name is Rose Phelan. Shes 68 years old, a widow with 4 children of her own grown with families of thier own now.
Shes on her way to Sante fe to visit her youngest daughter and family.
Kali never would have guess Rose for her age . She didn't appear that old to her.
Without actually telling Rose , Rose had picked up thru Kali's thoughts the story of her bumpy relationship with her father and step mother. Rose didnt know the details but she knew the situation had left Kali feeling abandoned.
She also knew this trip to visit her real mother had Kali feeling nervous. Rose didnt quite understand why.
" Rose? Can I ask something?" Kali asked at the last stop before Sante Fe.
" yes of course " Rose answered. Her eyes soft , she had taken a real liking to kali during the trip. At first she had been very leary of the young girl. But after sitting and talking , not just chatting but the talk between them telepathically , Rose really did like her.
such a sweet girl , confused , maybe a bit naive , but sweet none the less. Rose thought as she waited for kali's question.
"When did you know you had powers? Was it like something you always had ? Or did it just show up..." Kali asks timidly.
" Oh , well... As far back as i can remember Ive had this gift. I wouldnt call it so much a power. Just a gift. Its saved me troubles alot of times too. And of course .. its caused me a few as well " she smiles at Kali knowingly and continues, " I suppose yours cause you troubles from time to time also"
" more often then not" Kali sighed." Thats how i got sent to private school."
Rose nodded knowingly and patted the girls hand again.
"You're still very young Kali , there will be so many things through out your life to deal with , Those powers will grow and change as you do. And you know what? Kali looks up and smiles Its not always going to be changes you want , or understand, but they're always happening for a reason. Don't ever forget that child. The good lord only gives us what we can handle. And to those special enough to recieve a gift.... well... all i can tell you is cherish that gift child ... cherish it and use it to your full potential."
Kali nods and smiles at Rose.
I wonder if I'll ever see her again... I really like her Kali thinks to herself , forgetting Roses abilities.
The womans soft voice comes through Kalis thoughts. maybe ... maybe not... theres really no way to know child. But rest assured I will never forget you Kali , you're like family now
Kali glances up still smiling and leans her head against the older woman.
" Sante Fe coming up... 2 miles" The driver announces.
Kali holds Rose's hand tightly.
"I'm gonna miss you Rose" she half whispers.
" I'm going to miss you too child" Rose whispers back " now don't you go making yourself sick again you hear me? That won't help things one little bit, it just make them worse. You're a lovely young lady and theres no need for that stuff understand me child?"
Kali hadn't told Rose about this , and she was amazed and somewhat embarrassed at the comments.
" i won't I'm gonna do alot better when i go back this time." she whispers, ashamed that Rose had picked up on this.
" oh child , don't be sad.... we all do things we regret later. But if you learned from it and don;t repeat it , then its a lesson learned" Rose tells her telepathically. She continues to smile at Kali and reaches into her purse taking out a pen and small notepad.
"This is my home phone , and address Kali. Please keep in touch. " Rose adds as she hands kali the paper.
The bus pulls into the station and Kali and Rose wait patiently for the others to file off before making thier way down the narrow isle. Just before stepping off , Kali hugs Rose tightly
As she leaves the bus Kali spots her mother Imaya and rushes to her, huggling tightly and excitedly chattering about Rose.
" mama this is Rose..." as she turns to introduce Rose to her mother she sees the womans no where to be seen.
Disssappointed she turns back..." I guess she left with her daughter already"
Imaya smiles, "well maybe we will see her on the way to the car then. Lets get your things and go"
They didn't see Rose on the way and Kali's dissappointment is evident to Imaya.
" Its ok honey , we can try and call her when we get home if you'd like. Do you know her last name? " Imaya tries soothing Kalis unhappiness.
"shes staying with family... I dont know thier names... its ok Ill just call when I go back to St Joes mama." she answers.
Imaya nods and the two strap on seat beltsas Imaya starts the car and prepares to leave.
As the car leaves the parking lot Kali hears Rose's soft voice once more
" One more thing Kali, before you go... something I have tried to always remember and live my best by...Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together,
But do so with all your heart. "
Kali knows she cant technically answer and as she gazes around the other cars they pass on the road she thinks to herself in hopes Rose hears....
I won't forget Rose i promise
The Older woman next to her has mothered her the entire trip. Made sure she ate when they stopped , escorted her on and off the bus during fueling stops.
Kali had learned about the woman , not much but enough .
Her name is Rose Phelan. Shes 68 years old, a widow with 4 children of her own grown with families of thier own now.
Shes on her way to Sante fe to visit her youngest daughter and family.
Kali never would have guess Rose for her age . She didn't appear that old to her.
Without actually telling Rose , Rose had picked up thru Kali's thoughts the story of her bumpy relationship with her father and step mother. Rose didnt know the details but she knew the situation had left Kali feeling abandoned.
She also knew this trip to visit her real mother had Kali feeling nervous. Rose didnt quite understand why.
" Rose? Can I ask something?" Kali asked at the last stop before Sante Fe.
" yes of course " Rose answered. Her eyes soft , she had taken a real liking to kali during the trip. At first she had been very leary of the young girl. But after sitting and talking , not just chatting but the talk between them telepathically , Rose really did like her.
such a sweet girl , confused , maybe a bit naive , but sweet none the less. Rose thought as she waited for kali's question.
"When did you know you had powers? Was it like something you always had ? Or did it just show up..." Kali asks timidly.
" Oh , well... As far back as i can remember Ive had this gift. I wouldnt call it so much a power. Just a gift. Its saved me troubles alot of times too. And of course .. its caused me a few as well " she smiles at Kali knowingly and continues, " I suppose yours cause you troubles from time to time also"
" more often then not" Kali sighed." Thats how i got sent to private school."
Rose nodded knowingly and patted the girls hand again.
"You're still very young Kali , there will be so many things through out your life to deal with , Those powers will grow and change as you do. And you know what? Kali looks up and smiles Its not always going to be changes you want , or understand, but they're always happening for a reason. Don't ever forget that child. The good lord only gives us what we can handle. And to those special enough to recieve a gift.... well... all i can tell you is cherish that gift child ... cherish it and use it to your full potential."
Kali nods and smiles at Rose.
I wonder if I'll ever see her again... I really like her Kali thinks to herself , forgetting Roses abilities.
The womans soft voice comes through Kalis thoughts. maybe ... maybe not... theres really no way to know child. But rest assured I will never forget you Kali , you're like family now
Kali glances up still smiling and leans her head against the older woman.
" Sante Fe coming up... 2 miles" The driver announces.
Kali holds Rose's hand tightly.
"I'm gonna miss you Rose" she half whispers.
" I'm going to miss you too child" Rose whispers back " now don't you go making yourself sick again you hear me? That won't help things one little bit, it just make them worse. You're a lovely young lady and theres no need for that stuff understand me child?"
Kali hadn't told Rose about this , and she was amazed and somewhat embarrassed at the comments.
" i won't I'm gonna do alot better when i go back this time." she whispers, ashamed that Rose had picked up on this.
" oh child , don't be sad.... we all do things we regret later. But if you learned from it and don;t repeat it , then its a lesson learned" Rose tells her telepathically. She continues to smile at Kali and reaches into her purse taking out a pen and small notepad.
"This is my home phone , and address Kali. Please keep in touch. " Rose adds as she hands kali the paper.
The bus pulls into the station and Kali and Rose wait patiently for the others to file off before making thier way down the narrow isle. Just before stepping off , Kali hugs Rose tightly
As she leaves the bus Kali spots her mother Imaya and rushes to her, huggling tightly and excitedly chattering about Rose.
" mama this is Rose..." as she turns to introduce Rose to her mother she sees the womans no where to be seen.
Disssappointed she turns back..." I guess she left with her daughter already"
Imaya smiles, "well maybe we will see her on the way to the car then. Lets get your things and go"
They didn't see Rose on the way and Kali's dissappointment is evident to Imaya.
" Its ok honey , we can try and call her when we get home if you'd like. Do you know her last name? " Imaya tries soothing Kalis unhappiness.
"shes staying with family... I dont know thier names... its ok Ill just call when I go back to St Joes mama." she answers.
Imaya nods and the two strap on seat beltsas Imaya starts the car and prepares to leave.
As the car leaves the parking lot Kali hears Rose's soft voice once more
" One more thing Kali, before you go... something I have tried to always remember and live my best by...Accept the things to which fate binds you, and love the people with whom fate brings you together,
But do so with all your heart. "
Kali knows she cant technically answer and as she gazes around the other cars they pass on the road she thinks to herself in hopes Rose hears....
I won't forget Rose i promise
“Stasis Kiss: Sometimes you just have to do something drastic and shake things around a little. ”