Bittersweet Candy Bowl

35. Under Pressure, original chapter posted 3/17/07

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Transcript

*Someone comes running quickly down the hall toward Noah and Tess.*

*Noah glances toward the newcomer. He still has Tess backed against the wall.*

*Abbey explodes in and punches Noah hard in the face.*

*Noah goes sliding down the hall from the blow. Abbey’s hand is shaking.*

*Abbey glares at Noah.*
Abbey: …
*Tess cautiously approaches Abbey.*
Tess: A.. Abbey?!

Abbey: Hands off. You can’t assault anyone on school grounds.
*Noah holds a hand to his hurt cheek. His glasses are broken and askew.*
Noah: Look who’s talking! I could get you expelled, freshman!

*Abbey glares at him.*
Abbey: That’d make two of us, wouldn’t it? Just leave. And never put your hands on Tessa ever again.

*Noah gets in Abbey’s face, furious.*
Noah: Do you even KNOW who she IS?! I spent all SUMMER working up the nerve to--
*Abbey coolly smirks.*
Abbey: I couldn’t care less.

*Abbey looks down at Noah with a calm rage.*
Abbey: Whatever happened in the past doesn’t justify your violence today.

Abbey: Spend all that energy on something more productive and get over it.
*Noah looks up at Abbey with a stunned glare, his cheek is swollen and red and his broken glasses are still crooked.*
Noah: …

Noah: Oh, so YOU’RE gonna lecture ME? Now listen here! Anybody who knew--
*Abbey crosses his arms over his chest.*
Abbey: Must I repeat myself?

*Abbey’s smile has a nasty edge.*
Abbey: Or do you need me to HELP you understand?

*Noah wilts. He looks scared.*
Noah: …

*Noah runs away and Abbey looks relieved.*

*Abbey looks over his shoulder.*
Abbey: Tessa?

*Tess is shocked and shaken.*
Abbey: Are you alright? Did he hurt you?
Tess: …

*Abbey looks sad.*
Abbey: …

*Tess looks away from Abbey.*
Abbey: I’m sorry.. I scared you, didn’t I?
Tess: N-no, Abbey.. it’s okay..