#1 Double Trouble: Chapter Five
The background music for this chapter is "Affirmation" by Savage Garden (the video clip for this song is really good, see below):
Seeing Beyond Looks
There was a pause where Elizabeth didn’t know what else to say. She tried to ignore Chris who was glancing from her, to Ellen, to Chloe and back to herself again.
“Actually,” said Chloe, speaking up suddenly. They all turned to look at her. “I think we could make room for another person . . . one of the things I like most about this paper is how much room it has for expansion. We could start an column that spotlights a different social cause each week, for example.”
Elizabeth’s heart leapt. How could she have felt any sort of negativity towards Chloe earlier? That was exactly the sort of column she’d love to write.
“Or . . .” said Ellen, thinking it over, “We could have a gossip column . . . not only just telling who’s dating who, but where the best parties and hangouts are, and what the latest fashion is. We could call it ‘Eyes and Ears’.” She noticed Elizabeth’s disappointed expression. “Cheer up, at least you’ll get to have your own column, not many non-seniors are allowed that. It’s just that gossip, parties and fashion are more newsworthy. I can’t believe we’ve only covered sporting and academic interest before now. But anyway, if you write well for this column, you may be able to write feature stories of your own choice later on.”
Chris noticed Chloe looked sort of put out also, and he gently laid a hand on her shoulder, quite impressed by the two freshmen he’d encountered so far this year.
“Well maybe you could just read this story I wrote though,” said Elizabeth quickly, holding it out for Ellen to take. “I think it’s pretty good, I think a lot of people might be interested in reading it. . . .”
“I don’t want to see articles from you yet, Elizabeth. Let’s just see how well you write in a short column. It’s not like we have the space to publish any extra articles at the moment anyway. I intend to print the first issue of the paper tomorrow morning before homeroom, so if you’d like to contribute and think you can have something ready for me by early tomorrow morning, say eight o’clock, I can almost guarantee it will be published. It would show me how seriously you’re willing to take this, anyway. But remember, I’m not interested in reading articles yet. Just stick to gossip, not facts.”
Elizabeth bit her tongue to prevent herself from questioning the deadline. At least she had the opportunity to write something and get it published, even if it wasn’t what she wanted Ellen to publish.
“Oh, and Chris - can I discuss something with you in the photocopy room?” Ellen asked, clearly signalling that her conversation with Elizabeth was over. (Chris turned to Chloe to let her know that he’d return soon.)
Elizabeth felt a great feeling of trepidation as she left the article on the edge of Ellen’s desk anyway. She had the chance to write for the paper and prove herself, but she had to write about gossip, parties and fashion, the three things that interested her least in the world. She was about to see the situation as doomed to failure until she realized that she had exclusive access to a very important person in the field . . . Jessica.
Elizabeth hurried back to the cafeteria, only to see a disturbance being caused and people pointing at Jessica’s table, laughing. Or more correctly, laughing at Jessica. On the back of Jessica’s white skirt was a big red mark.
“What happened?” Elizabeth demanded quickly, lines of concern appearing across her forehead as she assumed the worst.
Lila tried to stop laughing at the sight of Elizabeth’s serious look, “She should have been more careful . . . there was tomato sauce on the bottom of her seat.”
“Yeah, and Amy put it there,” muttered Josh, looking disgusted.
Jessica looked like she was about to cry. Elizabeth grabbed her hand and pulled her out of the cafeteria and into the hall. Jessica kept walking and pulled Elizabeth into a bathroom. “What am I going to do Lizzie? Class starts in about ten minutes but it will take over half an hour for me to go home and change!” She wiped away the mascara that was threatening to run near her eyes. “I guess I’ll just say I’m sick and go home for the rest of the afternoon, you’ll cover for me, right?”
“Well, I don’t think you should skip your last lessons,” said Elizabeth firmly, going into a cubicle to find some toilet paper for Jessica to wipe her face on. “English is the most important subject and you don’t want to miss out on Mr Collins’s teaching.”
“I don’t care,” Jessica sniffed. “This is the most embarrassing day of my life. Why don’t you just leave me in peace?”
Just then Chloe hurried in. “Jess, I have a solution!” she exclaimed. “Josh just told me what happened, and Chris overheard and is offering to drive you home so that you can change.”
Jessica wiped her last few tears away and looked at Chloe with a vague expression of hope. “Really?”
“Yes, really, if you come right now,” said Chloe impatiently, tugging on her wrist.
“OK,” agreed Jessica, tossing the paper she was using into a nearby bin.
“But Jess, you’re going to be late!” Elizabeth protested, uncomfortable as usual with spontaneous decisions. “This is crazy - you can’t just go home like this.”
“I can’t stay like this either,” said Jessica stubbornly. She turned to Chloe. “Let’s go.”
The two of them hurried out without another word.
Elizabeth followed them out of the bathroom to see Jessica, Chloe and Chris jogging across the lush green lawns to his small white four-door hatchback car. I guess I should at least warn Mom that Jess is coming home, and is upset, she thought, reaching in her pocket for her cell phone.
“Don’t mention this to anyone,” said Chris, who was driving slightly above the speed limit.
Chloe grinned at him, personally thinking that he was far too cute to ever tell tales about. And too sweet. She couldn’t help watching his hand as it changed the gears, unable to forget the spark she’d felt that one time she’d touched it when they shook hands.
Jessica jumped out of the back of the car as they reached her house and ran inside … headlong into her mother. “Mom!”
“Jess! What have you done to your face? And your skirt? Elizabeth told me everything!” Alice exclaimed, taking her by the shoulders to examine her.
Figures, Jessica thought, sighing as she didn’t really want to have to deal with this on top of everything else.
“Elizabeth wanted to let me know you’d be dropping home to change your clothes, but I’m hoping that you’ll be changing that makeup as well, young lady.” Generally their mother was so sweet that Jessica forgot how stern she could be at moments like this.
“I’ll take it off,” Jessica agreed listlessly.
“And you won’t wear it to school ever again. From now on I’ll inspect your outfits before you leave. I don’t know what possesses you to dress up like this - Elizabeth never needs to. Hopefully the incident today with that white skirt has taught you to dress more sensibly.”
“Yes, Mom,” said Jessica, trying to sound as repentant as possible. “But I really have to get back to school, so can I please go change now?”
“OK,” agreed Alice. “I just want you to know that I’m only being hard on you now because I love you and I don’t want to see you get yourself hurt.”
Jessica rolled her eyes, shrugged her shoulders, and raced upstairs, changing her white skirt for a black pleated sports skirt that came just above her knee. Then she quickly removed her makeup, surprised at how much more youthful she looked without it.
Finally Jessica arrived back at the car.
“About time,” Chloe remarked, not that she had really minded relaxing in the car making occasional small talk with Chris and listening to his deep regular breathing.
“Yeah sorry, I had to deal with my mom’s questions.” Jessica explained how Elizabeth had rung their parents’ house before they’d arrived.
“We should get there just in time,” said Chris. “You do realise that you two are now both forever in my debt, though?” he added, smiling.
Chloe looked worried but Jessica just grinned at him confidently. “It should be you who is in our debt, considering we’ve allowed you to experience the pleasure of our company.”
“True,” said Chris, chuckling. “So we’ll call it even.” He parked the car in the Sweet Valley High parking lot, and the three of them once again hurried inside. “I guess it’s time to go our separate ways before we get into more trouble.”
Chloe nodded shyly, and Jessica waved. The two girls turned to leave, then Chloe couldn’t help turning around again. “Chris?” she called.
Chris turned around to grin at her. “Yes?”
“Thanks again,” she said, flashing him a brief glimpse of her beautiful smile.
Anything for you, he thought instantly, then paused, startled. He’d almost sounded like he was starting to fall for a freshman. “Anytime!” he responded, giving her what he hoped was a nonchalant wave.
“Thanks again,” Jessica purred in Chloe’s ear, making a joke out of how she’d just witnessed Chloe behave.
Chloe turned to her and hit her shoulder lightly. “Shut up.”
“Do you think he’s a sophomore, junior or maybe even a . . . senior?” Jessica asked, still grinning.
“Does it matter? He’s never in a million years going to be interested in me,” Chloe replied, tucking a stray piece of hair behind her ear.
“I wouldn’t be too sure about that,” replied Jessica, shrugging. However if she was honest, it was probably more because she wanted to believe she had a chance with Luke Murphy that she was trying to convince Chloe that she also had a chance with Chris.
Between English and Chemistry, Chloe rushed off, clutching a piece of paper that she refused to explain to Jessica and ignoring Mr Collins’s request to see both her and Elizabeth at his desk (she assumed that on her part that it would have something to do with her being late to class for the second day in a row).
Elizabeth had no problems with talking to Mr Collins however, now that he seemed more able to make the distinction between herself and Jessica’s behaviour.
Mr Collins adjusted his thin wire-framed glasses and looked at her seriously. “Have you looked into joining The Oracle yet?”
“Actually I have, but it turns out they have a no-freshman policy which is making things a bit difficult,” Elizabeth replied, preparing to elaborate further.
“Yeah, I've heard that Ellen treats The Oracle as though it's her precious baby. If you’d like, I could put in a good word for you there. Maybe then they’d let you onto their staff. Your writing ability is superb.”
Elizabeth smiled. “That’s really nice, but they’ve actually given me a small chance to write a column for them. I did have to talk to Ellen at least twice before she agreed, though.” She was suddenly struck by a brief sensation of pride - she had gotten herself a position on The Oracle without needing anyone else's help.
“Excellent, then I’ll look forward to reading what your column has to say,” he answered.
Elizabeth grimaced, as she wasn’t so sure. A gossip column didn’t seem the best way to display her writing talents.
As soon as the bell rang to signal the end of Chemistry Elizabeth hurried off (grateful to escape the second subject she shared with Todd, though luckily Amy was not present), hoping Jessica would remember that she had a work trial and therefore not wait around for her. The cafe was cosy - polished wooden interiors, couches, lanterns and coffee tables stacked with sections of that day's newspapers. All Elizabeth had to do was operate the cash register, take orders, put food on plates, and then clear and wipe tables afterwards.
The coffee making was expertly handled by a gothic girl named Charlotte, who insisted on making Elizabeth a short decaf soy vanilla latte for her to drink while she worked. Elizabeth experienced a glimpse of how people could become addicted to the taste of coffee, and depend on it daily as a performance enhancing drink. It was tempting given the Oracle column and pile of homework waiting for her at home to start a habit herself, so she was relieved that Charlotte had used decaf.
Luckily Elizabeth proved herself to be a hard worker and was able to announce to her proud parents at dinner that night that she had a job at Starbucks Cafe.
“Excellent,” said Ned Wakefield, Elizabeth’s father, who was a strong believer in honest hard work as the primary means of making money. “Now if Jessica finds herself a job also, I’m sure both of you girls will be feeling very independent, not to mention your mother and I will be convinced you are becoming more responsible.” He gave Jessica a pointed glance as he spoke. (Elizabeth was reminded that she had to find out from Jessica later that evening about what the latest gossip and fashion was.)
Jessica, as usual, was hardly saying anything when the topic was Elizabeth’s achievements. She had forced herself to accept quite some time ago that she would never be the perfect twin. It was possibly also the reason why sometimes she acted out in other ways in order to get attention. Instead she went through the cheerleading routine, which she and Chloe had made up that afternoon, in her mind. Chloe had mentioned that her brother was a footballer . . . and in her opinion nothing worked quite as well as a cheerleader bouncing around in a short skirt for gaining a footballer’s attention. At least, she hoped so.
The next day Jessica left the house wearing the same black skirt (to be on the safe side) and a dark red blouse. As soon as she arrived at school however she instantly pulled Lila and Chloe into the bathroom with her and unbuttoned her red shirt revealing a tight, bright red sleeveless sports top underneath that revealed the majority of her lower chest and stomach, and begged to use Lila’s red lipstick.
Chloe stared in astonishment at the transformation that Jessica was making.
“Well, there’s cheerleading tryouts today, remember? I can’t afford to look average for that,” Jessica pleaded, and handed the lipstick to Chloe saying, “You could probably use some too.”
“I haven’t told even you for certain yet whether or not I’m even going to try out with you,” Chloe protested, handing the lipstick back to Lila without bothering to apply any. It was true that she had nevertheless followed Jessica’s idea of wearing red and black (in her case a simple red sleeveless top with thick straps that crossed over at the back and pair of black gym shorts) that day just in case she did decide to try out with Jessica and perform their routine (Lila had already teased Jessica about wearing a similar outfit to someone else for the second day in a row, even though Jessica tried to explain that it was only because she and Chloe had planned to try out together). There were three available positions on the cheer squad, which Jessica seemed convinced were destined for herself, Lila and Chloe. Chloe still couldn’t imagine cheerleading being her kind of thing.
“Look!” said Jessica, tucking her shirt into her bookbag as they wandered out of the bathroom. Chris was coming down the hall with a bunch of other guys, all looking tousled as though they’d been training for some sport.
“Hey, Chloe!” said Chris as he passed, tossing a soccer ball.
“Do cheerleaders cheer at soccer games?” Chloe couldn’t help asking.
Lila and Jessica exchanged looks. “Do they ever!” they replied, nodding.
“Sweet Valley High cheerleaders have an obligation to support and encourage all sporting pursuits, however they mostly cover swimming, basketball, football and . . . soccer,” explained Lila, sounding authoritive.
Chloe grinned. “You’ve convinced me.”
“Or more accurately, Chris has convinced you,” corrected Jessica, grinning. Aaron Dallas passed her, wearing a black shirt with a bloody skull on it and horrendously ripped jeans, and she gave a small involuntary sigh. It seemed that the only guy she’d ever had the chance of something real with, had now changed irrevocably.
That morning in homeroom Ms Baxter announced there would be a whole school assembly instead of fourth period, so just before lunch all the students proceeded to the gymnasium where chairs had been set up.
Chris waved to Chloe from where he was sitting up on the stage next to the teachers. (“Why is he sitting up there?” Chloe asked, and Jessica shrugged unknowingly in response.)
The principal, Mr Cooper (nicknamed “Chrome Dome” Cooper because of his mostly bald head), stood up and everyone quietened down. “It has come to my attention that clothing has become somewhat of an issue at this school, to the extent where it threatens the unity of the student body. I am here to let you know that offensive clothing of any kind will not be tolerated. This includes short skirts and low-cut tops designed to be revealing. I am also going to advise that the two lowest grades, freshmen and sophomores, will not be allowed to wear makeup to school. My intentions are to lessen the teasing and segregation that occurs between different social groups on campus. It is the responsibility of homeroom teachers to see that this new policy is adhered to by all students, and it comes into effect from tomorrow onwards and will be re-evaluated in a month's time.”
Chloe glanced across at Jessica, Lila and Amy, all of whose mouths had fallen half-open in shock.
“I now hand you over to Chris Martin, your Student President, who would like to say a few words.” Mr Cooper encouraged Chris to come forward.
It was Chloe’s turn to open her mouth in shock. Their Student President? She’d been falling for the Student President?! She felt Jessica take hold of her hand and squeeze it, also in complete shock.
Chris stepped forward, and looked directly at Chloe as he began to speak. “This started off as just another randomly generated debate topic for the Sweet Valley High Debate Club earlier this week. However particularly when it was Chloe Murphy’s turn to speak, she gave some very convincing reasons for why high schools should have stricter dress regulations. Not too long after, an article appeared on my desk, written by Elizabeth Wakefield and outlining a similar argument. It became clear that action needed to be taken on this issue before it became completely out of control. Clothes are an excellent way to express oneself, but not to the detriment of others. The clothes we wear also reflect on the values of our school and can have the power to make some students feel excluded or unwelcome. Mr Cooper has agreed with me that we need to keep offensive clothing and excessive makeup to a minimum. Hopefully this will lessen the pressure on those students made to feel like outcasts for choosing to not follow the current fashion, and all Sweet Valley High students will gain a reputation as respectful, tolerant young adults while still protecting our freedom to each creatively express our unique individual qualities through our outward presentation. Thanks.” He sat down again.
Most of the students (including Chloe and Jessica) started clapping automatically, despite the fact that a lot of them looked upset at the new regulations (especially Lila and Amy who were looking accusingly at Chloe, as though it was all her fault).
Which it was. She’d picked up Elizabeth’s article off of Ellen’s desk, quickly read it through, discovered it was good, and passed it on to the Principal first chance she had. She hadn’t expected it to create this much of a stir, but then again Chris did strike her as the kind of Student President who would get things moving and not waste time if something was important.
Chris caught Chloe’s eye one last time, and she felt dazed to think she’d been stupid enough to fall for the charms of the Student President. It meant that not only was he a senior (far too old for her), but he was the most senior of all the seniors in a way.
Jessica sighed. “Can my life get any worse?” she asked, raising her eyebrows dramatically.
“I was thinking the same thing,” responded Chloe.
“Hey, yeah! You’ve managed to pick the one guy to fall for who is not only a senior but Student President!” Jessica started laughing momentarily. “I guess when I said that whole thing yesterday about you having a chance with him . . . well, that was before today. . . .”
Continue on reading . . . Chapter Six
Click to viewSeeing Beyond Looks
There was a pause where Elizabeth didn’t know what else to say. She tried to ignore Chris who was glancing from her, to Ellen, to Chloe and back to herself again.
“Actually,” said Chloe, speaking up suddenly. They all turned to look at her. “I think we could make room for another person . . . one of the things I like most about this paper is how much room it has for expansion. We could start an column that spotlights a different social cause each week, for example.”
Elizabeth’s heart leapt. How could she have felt any sort of negativity towards Chloe earlier? That was exactly the sort of column she’d love to write.
“Or . . .” said Ellen, thinking it over, “We could have a gossip column . . . not only just telling who’s dating who, but where the best parties and hangouts are, and what the latest fashion is. We could call it ‘Eyes and Ears’.” She noticed Elizabeth’s disappointed expression. “Cheer up, at least you’ll get to have your own column, not many non-seniors are allowed that. It’s just that gossip, parties and fashion are more newsworthy. I can’t believe we’ve only covered sporting and academic interest before now. But anyway, if you write well for this column, you may be able to write feature stories of your own choice later on.”
Chris noticed Chloe looked sort of put out also, and he gently laid a hand on her shoulder, quite impressed by the two freshmen he’d encountered so far this year.
“Well maybe you could just read this story I wrote though,” said Elizabeth quickly, holding it out for Ellen to take. “I think it’s pretty good, I think a lot of people might be interested in reading it. . . .”
“I don’t want to see articles from you yet, Elizabeth. Let’s just see how well you write in a short column. It’s not like we have the space to publish any extra articles at the moment anyway. I intend to print the first issue of the paper tomorrow morning before homeroom, so if you’d like to contribute and think you can have something ready for me by early tomorrow morning, say eight o’clock, I can almost guarantee it will be published. It would show me how seriously you’re willing to take this, anyway. But remember, I’m not interested in reading articles yet. Just stick to gossip, not facts.”
Elizabeth bit her tongue to prevent herself from questioning the deadline. At least she had the opportunity to write something and get it published, even if it wasn’t what she wanted Ellen to publish.
“Oh, and Chris - can I discuss something with you in the photocopy room?” Ellen asked, clearly signalling that her conversation with Elizabeth was over. (Chris turned to Chloe to let her know that he’d return soon.)
Elizabeth felt a great feeling of trepidation as she left the article on the edge of Ellen’s desk anyway. She had the chance to write for the paper and prove herself, but she had to write about gossip, parties and fashion, the three things that interested her least in the world. She was about to see the situation as doomed to failure until she realized that she had exclusive access to a very important person in the field . . . Jessica.
Elizabeth hurried back to the cafeteria, only to see a disturbance being caused and people pointing at Jessica’s table, laughing. Or more correctly, laughing at Jessica. On the back of Jessica’s white skirt was a big red mark.
“What happened?” Elizabeth demanded quickly, lines of concern appearing across her forehead as she assumed the worst.
Lila tried to stop laughing at the sight of Elizabeth’s serious look, “She should have been more careful . . . there was tomato sauce on the bottom of her seat.”
“Yeah, and Amy put it there,” muttered Josh, looking disgusted.
Jessica looked like she was about to cry. Elizabeth grabbed her hand and pulled her out of the cafeteria and into the hall. Jessica kept walking and pulled Elizabeth into a bathroom. “What am I going to do Lizzie? Class starts in about ten minutes but it will take over half an hour for me to go home and change!” She wiped away the mascara that was threatening to run near her eyes. “I guess I’ll just say I’m sick and go home for the rest of the afternoon, you’ll cover for me, right?”
“Well, I don’t think you should skip your last lessons,” said Elizabeth firmly, going into a cubicle to find some toilet paper for Jessica to wipe her face on. “English is the most important subject and you don’t want to miss out on Mr Collins’s teaching.”
“I don’t care,” Jessica sniffed. “This is the most embarrassing day of my life. Why don’t you just leave me in peace?”
Just then Chloe hurried in. “Jess, I have a solution!” she exclaimed. “Josh just told me what happened, and Chris overheard and is offering to drive you home so that you can change.”
Jessica wiped her last few tears away and looked at Chloe with a vague expression of hope. “Really?”
“Yes, really, if you come right now,” said Chloe impatiently, tugging on her wrist.
“OK,” agreed Jessica, tossing the paper she was using into a nearby bin.
“But Jess, you’re going to be late!” Elizabeth protested, uncomfortable as usual with spontaneous decisions. “This is crazy - you can’t just go home like this.”
“I can’t stay like this either,” said Jessica stubbornly. She turned to Chloe. “Let’s go.”
The two of them hurried out without another word.
Elizabeth followed them out of the bathroom to see Jessica, Chloe and Chris jogging across the lush green lawns to his small white four-door hatchback car. I guess I should at least warn Mom that Jess is coming home, and is upset, she thought, reaching in her pocket for her cell phone.
“Don’t mention this to anyone,” said Chris, who was driving slightly above the speed limit.
Chloe grinned at him, personally thinking that he was far too cute to ever tell tales about. And too sweet. She couldn’t help watching his hand as it changed the gears, unable to forget the spark she’d felt that one time she’d touched it when they shook hands.
Jessica jumped out of the back of the car as they reached her house and ran inside … headlong into her mother. “Mom!”
“Jess! What have you done to your face? And your skirt? Elizabeth told me everything!” Alice exclaimed, taking her by the shoulders to examine her.
Figures, Jessica thought, sighing as she didn’t really want to have to deal with this on top of everything else.
“Elizabeth wanted to let me know you’d be dropping home to change your clothes, but I’m hoping that you’ll be changing that makeup as well, young lady.” Generally their mother was so sweet that Jessica forgot how stern she could be at moments like this.
“I’ll take it off,” Jessica agreed listlessly.
“And you won’t wear it to school ever again. From now on I’ll inspect your outfits before you leave. I don’t know what possesses you to dress up like this - Elizabeth never needs to. Hopefully the incident today with that white skirt has taught you to dress more sensibly.”
“Yes, Mom,” said Jessica, trying to sound as repentant as possible. “But I really have to get back to school, so can I please go change now?”
“OK,” agreed Alice. “I just want you to know that I’m only being hard on you now because I love you and I don’t want to see you get yourself hurt.”
Jessica rolled her eyes, shrugged her shoulders, and raced upstairs, changing her white skirt for a black pleated sports skirt that came just above her knee. Then she quickly removed her makeup, surprised at how much more youthful she looked without it.
Finally Jessica arrived back at the car.
“About time,” Chloe remarked, not that she had really minded relaxing in the car making occasional small talk with Chris and listening to his deep regular breathing.
“Yeah sorry, I had to deal with my mom’s questions.” Jessica explained how Elizabeth had rung their parents’ house before they’d arrived.
“We should get there just in time,” said Chris. “You do realise that you two are now both forever in my debt, though?” he added, smiling.
Chloe looked worried but Jessica just grinned at him confidently. “It should be you who is in our debt, considering we’ve allowed you to experience the pleasure of our company.”
“True,” said Chris, chuckling. “So we’ll call it even.” He parked the car in the Sweet Valley High parking lot, and the three of them once again hurried inside. “I guess it’s time to go our separate ways before we get into more trouble.”
Chloe nodded shyly, and Jessica waved. The two girls turned to leave, then Chloe couldn’t help turning around again. “Chris?” she called.
Chris turned around to grin at her. “Yes?”
“Thanks again,” she said, flashing him a brief glimpse of her beautiful smile.
Anything for you, he thought instantly, then paused, startled. He’d almost sounded like he was starting to fall for a freshman. “Anytime!” he responded, giving her what he hoped was a nonchalant wave.
“Thanks again,” Jessica purred in Chloe’s ear, making a joke out of how she’d just witnessed Chloe behave.
Chloe turned to her and hit her shoulder lightly. “Shut up.”
“Do you think he’s a sophomore, junior or maybe even a . . . senior?” Jessica asked, still grinning.
“Does it matter? He’s never in a million years going to be interested in me,” Chloe replied, tucking a stray piece of hair behind her ear.
“I wouldn’t be too sure about that,” replied Jessica, shrugging. However if she was honest, it was probably more because she wanted to believe she had a chance with Luke Murphy that she was trying to convince Chloe that she also had a chance with Chris.
Between English and Chemistry, Chloe rushed off, clutching a piece of paper that she refused to explain to Jessica and ignoring Mr Collins’s request to see both her and Elizabeth at his desk (she assumed that on her part that it would have something to do with her being late to class for the second day in a row).
Elizabeth had no problems with talking to Mr Collins however, now that he seemed more able to make the distinction between herself and Jessica’s behaviour.
Mr Collins adjusted his thin wire-framed glasses and looked at her seriously. “Have you looked into joining The Oracle yet?”
“Actually I have, but it turns out they have a no-freshman policy which is making things a bit difficult,” Elizabeth replied, preparing to elaborate further.
“Yeah, I've heard that Ellen treats The Oracle as though it's her precious baby. If you’d like, I could put in a good word for you there. Maybe then they’d let you onto their staff. Your writing ability is superb.”
Elizabeth smiled. “That’s really nice, but they’ve actually given me a small chance to write a column for them. I did have to talk to Ellen at least twice before she agreed, though.” She was suddenly struck by a brief sensation of pride - she had gotten herself a position on The Oracle without needing anyone else's help.
“Excellent, then I’ll look forward to reading what your column has to say,” he answered.
Elizabeth grimaced, as she wasn’t so sure. A gossip column didn’t seem the best way to display her writing talents.
As soon as the bell rang to signal the end of Chemistry Elizabeth hurried off (grateful to escape the second subject she shared with Todd, though luckily Amy was not present), hoping Jessica would remember that she had a work trial and therefore not wait around for her. The cafe was cosy - polished wooden interiors, couches, lanterns and coffee tables stacked with sections of that day's newspapers. All Elizabeth had to do was operate the cash register, take orders, put food on plates, and then clear and wipe tables afterwards.
The coffee making was expertly handled by a gothic girl named Charlotte, who insisted on making Elizabeth a short decaf soy vanilla latte for her to drink while she worked. Elizabeth experienced a glimpse of how people could become addicted to the taste of coffee, and depend on it daily as a performance enhancing drink. It was tempting given the Oracle column and pile of homework waiting for her at home to start a habit herself, so she was relieved that Charlotte had used decaf.
Luckily Elizabeth proved herself to be a hard worker and was able to announce to her proud parents at dinner that night that she had a job at Starbucks Cafe.
“Excellent,” said Ned Wakefield, Elizabeth’s father, who was a strong believer in honest hard work as the primary means of making money. “Now if Jessica finds herself a job also, I’m sure both of you girls will be feeling very independent, not to mention your mother and I will be convinced you are becoming more responsible.” He gave Jessica a pointed glance as he spoke. (Elizabeth was reminded that she had to find out from Jessica later that evening about what the latest gossip and fashion was.)
Jessica, as usual, was hardly saying anything when the topic was Elizabeth’s achievements. She had forced herself to accept quite some time ago that she would never be the perfect twin. It was possibly also the reason why sometimes she acted out in other ways in order to get attention. Instead she went through the cheerleading routine, which she and Chloe had made up that afternoon, in her mind. Chloe had mentioned that her brother was a footballer . . . and in her opinion nothing worked quite as well as a cheerleader bouncing around in a short skirt for gaining a footballer’s attention. At least, she hoped so.
The next day Jessica left the house wearing the same black skirt (to be on the safe side) and a dark red blouse. As soon as she arrived at school however she instantly pulled Lila and Chloe into the bathroom with her and unbuttoned her red shirt revealing a tight, bright red sleeveless sports top underneath that revealed the majority of her lower chest and stomach, and begged to use Lila’s red lipstick.
Chloe stared in astonishment at the transformation that Jessica was making.
“Well, there’s cheerleading tryouts today, remember? I can’t afford to look average for that,” Jessica pleaded, and handed the lipstick to Chloe saying, “You could probably use some too.”
“I haven’t told even you for certain yet whether or not I’m even going to try out with you,” Chloe protested, handing the lipstick back to Lila without bothering to apply any. It was true that she had nevertheless followed Jessica’s idea of wearing red and black (in her case a simple red sleeveless top with thick straps that crossed over at the back and pair of black gym shorts) that day just in case she did decide to try out with Jessica and perform their routine (Lila had already teased Jessica about wearing a similar outfit to someone else for the second day in a row, even though Jessica tried to explain that it was only because she and Chloe had planned to try out together). There were three available positions on the cheer squad, which Jessica seemed convinced were destined for herself, Lila and Chloe. Chloe still couldn’t imagine cheerleading being her kind of thing.
“Look!” said Jessica, tucking her shirt into her bookbag as they wandered out of the bathroom. Chris was coming down the hall with a bunch of other guys, all looking tousled as though they’d been training for some sport.
“Hey, Chloe!” said Chris as he passed, tossing a soccer ball.
“Do cheerleaders cheer at soccer games?” Chloe couldn’t help asking.
Lila and Jessica exchanged looks. “Do they ever!” they replied, nodding.
“Sweet Valley High cheerleaders have an obligation to support and encourage all sporting pursuits, however they mostly cover swimming, basketball, football and . . . soccer,” explained Lila, sounding authoritive.
Chloe grinned. “You’ve convinced me.”
“Or more accurately, Chris has convinced you,” corrected Jessica, grinning. Aaron Dallas passed her, wearing a black shirt with a bloody skull on it and horrendously ripped jeans, and she gave a small involuntary sigh. It seemed that the only guy she’d ever had the chance of something real with, had now changed irrevocably.
That morning in homeroom Ms Baxter announced there would be a whole school assembly instead of fourth period, so just before lunch all the students proceeded to the gymnasium where chairs had been set up.
Chris waved to Chloe from where he was sitting up on the stage next to the teachers. (“Why is he sitting up there?” Chloe asked, and Jessica shrugged unknowingly in response.)
The principal, Mr Cooper (nicknamed “Chrome Dome” Cooper because of his mostly bald head), stood up and everyone quietened down. “It has come to my attention that clothing has become somewhat of an issue at this school, to the extent where it threatens the unity of the student body. I am here to let you know that offensive clothing of any kind will not be tolerated. This includes short skirts and low-cut tops designed to be revealing. I am also going to advise that the two lowest grades, freshmen and sophomores, will not be allowed to wear makeup to school. My intentions are to lessen the teasing and segregation that occurs between different social groups on campus. It is the responsibility of homeroom teachers to see that this new policy is adhered to by all students, and it comes into effect from tomorrow onwards and will be re-evaluated in a month's time.”
Chloe glanced across at Jessica, Lila and Amy, all of whose mouths had fallen half-open in shock.
“I now hand you over to Chris Martin, your Student President, who would like to say a few words.” Mr Cooper encouraged Chris to come forward.
It was Chloe’s turn to open her mouth in shock. Their Student President? She’d been falling for the Student President?! She felt Jessica take hold of her hand and squeeze it, also in complete shock.
Chris stepped forward, and looked directly at Chloe as he began to speak. “This started off as just another randomly generated debate topic for the Sweet Valley High Debate Club earlier this week. However particularly when it was Chloe Murphy’s turn to speak, she gave some very convincing reasons for why high schools should have stricter dress regulations. Not too long after, an article appeared on my desk, written by Elizabeth Wakefield and outlining a similar argument. It became clear that action needed to be taken on this issue before it became completely out of control. Clothes are an excellent way to express oneself, but not to the detriment of others. The clothes we wear also reflect on the values of our school and can have the power to make some students feel excluded or unwelcome. Mr Cooper has agreed with me that we need to keep offensive clothing and excessive makeup to a minimum. Hopefully this will lessen the pressure on those students made to feel like outcasts for choosing to not follow the current fashion, and all Sweet Valley High students will gain a reputation as respectful, tolerant young adults while still protecting our freedom to each creatively express our unique individual qualities through our outward presentation. Thanks.” He sat down again.
Most of the students (including Chloe and Jessica) started clapping automatically, despite the fact that a lot of them looked upset at the new regulations (especially Lila and Amy who were looking accusingly at Chloe, as though it was all her fault).
Which it was. She’d picked up Elizabeth’s article off of Ellen’s desk, quickly read it through, discovered it was good, and passed it on to the Principal first chance she had. She hadn’t expected it to create this much of a stir, but then again Chris did strike her as the kind of Student President who would get things moving and not waste time if something was important.
Chris caught Chloe’s eye one last time, and she felt dazed to think she’d been stupid enough to fall for the charms of the Student President. It meant that not only was he a senior (far too old for her), but he was the most senior of all the seniors in a way.
Jessica sighed. “Can my life get any worse?” she asked, raising her eyebrows dramatically.
“I was thinking the same thing,” responded Chloe.
“Hey, yeah! You’ve managed to pick the one guy to fall for who is not only a senior but Student President!” Jessica started laughing momentarily. “I guess when I said that whole thing yesterday about you having a chance with him . . . well, that was before today. . . .”
Continue on reading . . . Chapter Six