“…In a way, I believe…” Willow trailed off, leaving Jennifer to pick up with raised eyebrows. “And you believe…?”
Jenny let out a sarcastic laugh. “You’re too afraid to go against your parents, end of story. You’re not being ungrateful by choosing a different path, you’re being yourself. You’re not judging me because you know deep down that you wish you had the guts to do what I’m doing. Don’t try to make excuses for your lack of backbone.” Jenny leaned back in her seat, daring anyone to challenge her. “I’m just saying. I see you writing a lot, so metaphorically, pick up your pen and don’t end the story there, Willow.” Jennifer said her name, just to add power to her statement.
“I don’t.” Jennifer said blatantly. “Now that you point it out, I do see how you could be seen as a rebel. You go against the grain, I mean, I don’t see anyone who expresses themselves like you.” She did admit. “You may dress gothic but that doesn’t make you a rebel. You’re just a coward who’s too scared to take risks. A rebel is literally just someone who goes against a higher power or government. It’s a resistance. And you call it accepting things that are out of your control? B🐂llsh💩t. You’re just too afraid to take control of your own life. Don’t try to compare yourself to me, because we’re not the same. I’m not afraid to speak my truth and follow my own path, even if it means going against the norm. And don’t try to justify your choices as the best choice. You’re just settling for what’s comfortable, not what’s best for you." Jenny crossed her arms and a defiant look on her face. Maybe this will rub off on her. But as Jenny looked at everyone’s faces, she knew she had probably crossed a line. Maybe her delivery wasn’t so great, and maybe that’s why she didn’t give prep talks.
This was never something Jennifer had ever had to deal with, so despite their differences, she tried to look at how Willow was struggling with her own beliefs and values. "Willow, I didn’t mean to sound so harsh.” She took a more gentle tone, but still meant every word. “I’m sorry. I can understand that you’re going through a tough time right now. But please, don’t let society or your parents dictate what you want. You have the right to live your life on your own terms, even if it’s not the easiest path. You’re not alone.” Jenny looked at the top of Willows head, just so she didn’t have to look at her eyes.
“I don’t understand why many people dislike you. You’re a really sweet and understanding person. I wish others could see what I have today.” Jenny’s smile faltered as she listened to Willow’s kind words. She couldn’t help but feel a twinge of guilt as she thought of all the people she had messed with just for her own amusement. Teachers she had disrespected because they had underestimated her abilities or been rude to her. All the pranks she had played on people just to get a laugh.
“I appreciate your kind words, Willow,” Jenny replied, her voice soft. “But I’m not usually a sweet and understanding person. I’ve done things in the past that I’m not proud of—okay, maybe some that I still am, but things that have hurt other people. Feelings and otherwise. And I know that some people look at me and only see the girl who causes chaos and trouble. It’s not the best look… and it definitely comes to bite me in the •ss way too often but,” Jenny gave Willow a small smile. “Thank you for giving me a chance today. To be better than just a rebel. It means a lot to me.”
It was quiet. Willow even put the cherry on top, “I’ll just tell them being a lawyer is my dream.”
As Jenny listened to Willow’s confession, her mind raced with thoughts and emotions. She couldn’t help but feel a mixture of admiration and sympathy for the girl. Willow was clearly going through a lot, and yet she still had the courage to speak up and be honest. Jenny realized that she had underestimated Willow before, thinking of her as just another privileged teenager who had everything handed to her on a silver platter. But now she saw that Willow was more than that, that there was a depth to her that she hadn’t expected.
Jenny also felt a sense of responsibility towards Willow now. She knew that she was in a position to help her, or at least to offer her support and advice when she needed it. Maybe they actually were both both strong-willed and passionate about what they believed in. Perhaps, Jenny thought, they could even learn from each other.
Jennifers eye were round with surprise as she finally tried for eye contact. She hadn’t realized just how empathetic Willow truly was to think this way. "Wow, Willow. I had no idea…That’s… hard.”
@idiot.exe • Willow • Ehh, I tried to soften the blow