Author's Note: Hey everyone! So sorry that it took me 7 months to update this story but I've been getting pretty distracted with certain things, as well as getting stuck at times with trying to think an idea and plan out how to write this chapter. As you know this is the chapter where Ally and her friends start their first day of school (probably already figured out why I had a hard time trying to write this seeing how I'm not a big fan of school) but I won't go into full detail of the school. But I will give an overview of the class and how some of them are. Later in the chapter will just be not school related and might possibly involve a school girl trying to get away from the things that went on during her first day. Anyway, I'll leave you guys to read this and I hope you enjoy this new chapter.

Disclaimer: I don't own the Gemma Doyle Trilogy or the Twilight Series.

*~*Chapter Sixteen*~*

Need more sleep. Need more sleep. Need more sleep.

That's what is repeating over and over in my not-so-subconscious brain at the moment. But I know that the alarm on my cell phone is keeping me from sleeping. I sigh, and get out of bed. I reach for my phone, pressing the circle that allows me to see the screen lock picture on my iPhone before I slide the on-screen lock. I see the little message in the blue bubble on the screen giving me the option to hit the snooze button. I am so tempted to hit it for another ten minutes. But, after seeing the time, I know I have to stay awake. I unlock my phone and then gently toss it onto the bed, not really looking forward to seeing anything on there. I glance at the window and see sunlight peaking through the curtains, showing that it's an actual sunny day in London.

The perfect omen. I think to myself. If it's sunny outside, then I'm expecting for this day to go south.

I look away from the window and see mud and grass all over my shoes and at the ends of my sweats. Grimacing at the sight, I use my magic—which I am now able to use here—to clean them. I then go over to my closet and look for my uniform. Once finding it, I take it over to the bed to get a better look. I'm able to see that the uniform consists of a pleated navy blue plaid skirt—also looking like it could be a bit short for my taste—a white button-down blouse, black tie, dark gray sweater-vest and black jacket.

Doesn't seem too bad. I go over to my suitcase and take out a matching bra and pair of panties. Before even getting dressed, I go into the bathroom in my room and wash my face, brush my teeth, and straighten my newly cut hair—courtesy of Carrie. Once finished, I decide it is time to strip off my clothes and change into the Spence uniform. I slip on the blouse, fastening the small pearly white buttons all the way.

I already dislike the blouse and the fact that my over-developed chest seems to continue developing, causing everything I attempt to wear look too tight for comfort. I have always thought my chest and curves were a reason why Edward feels like he has to "chase" away every male that tries to talk to me. But, obviously, he knew what they'd always thought of me. And whenever I tried asking him, he's say that it was I wouldn't really like to hear it. My body is kind of the reason why I prefer to wear t-shirts, hoodies and jeans—all an attempt to hide it. But it is difficult to get away with trying to hide my body when I attend dinner parties or other social events with my family, seeing how I have to look presentable in front of everyone.

Now fully dressed, I groan at my reflection in the mirror. The skirt is a bit shorter. This is absolutely perfect. I feel like such a slut with the short skirt. Sighing at my appearance, I work on my tie, and then I make my way closer to the dresser to apply make-up. I'm not a fan of foundation but seeing how I'd like nothing more than to hide the faint freckles that I have, I decide to apply some on. Once I finish, I apply a bit of eyeliner and mascara.

For some odd reason, applying mascara makes me think about Kartik. His eyelashes are long and thick—something I have never seen on a mortal boy. But, of course, thinking about his eyelashes makes me think about him entirely. Why is it that I always see him in my dreams? And now with what happened last night, I know for sure that I'll be seeing him a lot more than I would have hoped for.

What he had said about my great-grandmother…he knew things about Gemma that I didn't even know—even with the little knowledge I have of her, he seemed to know more. I start chewing my lip, thinking back to everything that happened last night. Just about everything he said makes me want to speak with Grams right away to see if what Kartik said was a lie. To know that Gemma never was a part of anything bad and might cause harm to a place that might or might not exist.

It's taking everything in me to not mess up my hair and make-up at the moment for even thinking about these things. I am starting to get curious about the time and about to check it until I hear and see my phone go off—indicating that I have a new message. When I see that it's from Edward, I feel a smile spread across my face. I unlock my phone and see Edward's message:

Good morning, love. I hope you had a well-rested night's sleep. I wish were there to greet you in the morning in person, but it seems like I'll be stuck sending my love through a text message.

The message ended with a smiling face. Seeing Edward's message causes my heart to swell with joy. I immediately start writing out my reply to send to him. Texting Edward seems like it will be the only thing to keep me sane at this place. Although, I would love nothing more than to have him here with me and tell me that I was silly to even believe something like this.

But it's not that simple. I can't tell Edward about Kartik. If he knew that a boy I met in India after sneaking out of my grandmother's vacation estate is stalking his girlfriend, he'd be furious. Plus, I can't tell Edward about my dreams either. If he found out about me dreaming of kissing another boy, he'd go on a killing spree. As much as I hate hiding this from him, I know it's the right thing to do—to protect Kartik from getting hurt by my vampire boyfriend, even if I might not like him.

After I finish sending my reply to Edward, I see that it's almost seven forty-five. I have fifteen minutes until breakfast. I pull on my knee-high socks and slip into a par of Coach loafers. I grab my jacket, slip it on, turn my phone on vibrate, and head out the door. I feel my phone go off and see I have another message from Edward.

I'm glad you had a good night's sleep. And I hope you have a good first day today.

I grimace at the message—hating the idea about being here. I reply:

I just wish I was home schooled in magic still and still attending mortal school in the States.

I send the message, and put the phone in jacket pocket. Walking down the hall, I see so many girls getting out of their rooms. And, of course, after taking a glance at me, they start whispering. I am never really fond of people talking about me. I'm told to not really listen to them, but I can't help it. I look forward, and try to ignore the whispers. Up ahead, I see Carrie and Violet make their way out of their room. Both of them already in uniform—with Violet grimacing at the outfit. I go over to them as quickly as I can without tripping along the way.

Carrie sees me and says, "Ready for hell?"

I nod. "Yes. I really don't want to be here."

"And I really want to be out of this uniform," Violet whines. "It's so ugly, I cannot stand being in it any longer."

"You just barely put it on," Carrie counters.

"I still don't want to be in it. Plus, Ally looks tight fitted in hers."

"Don't remind me," I mutter, picking up my pace.

"You never did like wearing clothes that show off what you got, huh?" Carrie asks, following close behind with Violet on her tail.

"No. I feel like I have too much because of this," I say.

"But every girl would kill to have what you have!"

"And every straight male wants to nail what she has too," Violet adds.

Carrie giggles. "Edward gets pissed as soon as that happens."

"I'm glad to see you guys are amused by that." I continue to walk down the hall.

"Hey, it's better than us talking about how disgusting it is to see Violet and Tom get cute with each other," Carrie shudders.

"Please. I've heard and accidentally walked in on you and Emmett being 'affectionate' on more than one occasion." Violet counters, causing Carrie to gape.

"You walked in on us?"

"Carrie, you need to lock that door!"

"You need to learn how to knock!"

Giggling under my breath, I continue down the hall until I feel my phone vibrate. I take my phone out of my jacket pocket and see that Edward replied.

You know your parents have to be here, besides being at a magic school will be a great experience. You get to meet new friends, learn more about potions and spells. Everything you could think of to have a great time there.

I sigh and reply. I'd rather be at home and with you instead of being at this stupid school. I wish you could see that.

I send the message to Edward, looking up in time to see that I've reached the stairs. I take a deep breath and prepare myself for what will be the worst day ever.

My entire day went by so quickly I had no idea what happened at all. My first class, Spanish—which was also my only class without Carrie and Violet—was a bit tormenting and boring at the same time. Even if it was Advanced Spanish, I was still pretty bored by it. My second class Advanced Potions was almost the same, except Carrie and Violet were there with me to deal with the dull professor drone on about how privileged Spence was for having the Princess of the Other Realm attending the school. It took a lot in me not to commit a premature accident in that class with the pen in my hand. Next was a History of Magic—another class where the professor droned on about the privilege Spence had about the Princess being there. I would have had Advanced Charms but I was too advanced for it, same went for Carrie and Violet. So we all had training in etiquette how to prepare for our seasons—something I wasn't all that fond of. Next was Transfiguration (yes, the author of Harry Potter actually had no idea that some of her ideas for classes at Hogwarts were actual classes for magic schools). The professor gave a brief speech about me being there and went on with her lesson.

I am now entering my final class, which, unfortunately, is another class without Carrie and Violet. Although, I believe this class might not be so bad without them. Intro to Equestrian Studies seems like it can be the best class to help me forget about everything here at Spence. The stables are said to be the new addition to this school, but I discover that they were built more than sixty years ago. Entering the stables, I'm bombarded with the smell of horses mix with leather and hay. A row of girls are standing near the entrance and talking amongst themselves. After waiting for several minutes, I hear the sounds of hooves and see an amazing tan mare pounding into the corral at full gallop. She slides into a stop just near the entrance of the stables and I see the rider dismount gracefully.

Her thick dark-brown hair is up in a ponytail and brown eyes. She is of average height and has a strong yet feminine posture. She looks at us and says, "Good afternoon, class. I am Professor Stewart, and this," she points at the mare, "is a horse." Her voice rings against the walls. "You are my new group of girls who are seen to be might possibly, or are, to have an aptitude for riding. The truth is no less than half of you last the year in this class, and less than half of those who do last will show their potential of becoming decent equestrians. Now, one thing I will ask of you girls is that you change out of your uniforms for this class every day before you come here. If you follow me, I'll show you what you'll be dealing with." She turns and walks into the stable with us following.

She comes to a halt and faces us. "Horses are not big dogs. Nor are they a little girl's romanticized dream of a perfect best friend." Two girls beside me fidget guiltily; Professor Stewart continues, "Horses are work. They take dedication, intelligence, and time. Now, tomorrow I will start you girls on mucking the stalls." After hearing that, I internally groan. Mucking out stalls is something I can't really handle properly, my parents usually helped with their magic to cover up the smell or else they would have had to deal with my vomiting. Stupid weak stomach.

"And I'd also like for you girls to meet my assistant who will also be helping you during your time here." Almost as if on cue, I hear footsteps approaching us from where her office is. I catch sight of tousle black curls and my heart immediately stops. He comes around into the stable and smiles to the other girls, holding his glaze a bit longer in my direction. "Ladies, this is Kartik. As I said, he will help you with anything you'd need. Now, for the remainder of the class you are all able to walk around the stables and be sure not to wander off or else Headmistress Brooks will be furious." With that said, most of the girls went walking out of the stables, a handful stay and approach Kartik—no doubt trying to flirt with him.

For some odd reason, just looking and thinking about it makes me want to rip him out of there and away from them. No idea where that came from. Before I even attempt to do something, Professor Stewart gets my attention. "Miss Brooks, may I have a word with you?"

I look in her direction and nod, giving anything to be away from this. I walk over to her and we make our way out of the stable. I can no doubt feel Kartik's gaze as I leave. Walking further out, we make our way toward her office. She opens the door, allowing me to enter first, enters after, and closes the door behind her. I look at her and she smiles, pulling me into a tight hug.

"I'm so happy to see you again, Ally."

I hug her back, "I'm happy to see you, too, Aunt Piper."

She pulls back. "Isn't this going to be fun? It'll be just like all those times I showed you how to ride." She smiles.

"It will." I smile back. "I wouldn't think Spence could have a class like this. And I wouldn't think I could get into the Intro class."

"Well," she pauses, "I might have had something to do with that. You know how we hardly get to see each other anymore and I thought this would be the best way to spend a bit more time together." I'm about to say something until she cuts me off, "Don't worry, I won't give you any special treatment. Unlike my mother who insists on it." She shakes her head.

"Dad said that he'll talk to her about that."

She scoffs, "Trust me, my brother will do it but will be shot down in the process."

My dad and aunt are almost like Tom and I, except they actually get along. "I can't believe that she's turning everything into something I don't want."

"Ally, don't worry, I know she can be pushy with things but at least know that there's a place here if you want a little getaway."

I smile, "Thank you, Aunt Piper," and hug her.

She hugs me as well and eventually pulls back, "Now, I know you don't have any homework yet, so I have an extra pair of jeans and a shirt, and you can go out there and spend a little time with my horse."

"That's perfect, thanks, Aunt Piper." She shows me where she has the clothes, points to the bathroom in the office.

I enter, take off my uniform, change into the clothes Aunt Piper lent me, and exit the bathroom. I see that she's not in her office and assume that she left to do something else. I remember to change my flats into a pair of converse, leave my clothes behind her desk and make my way out of Aunt Piper's office. Seeing that it's empty, I walk over to the stall where Aunt Piper's horse, Persephone, is and notice that her stall is clean. I see a brush on a stool next to the stall. Reaching for it, I turn back to the mare and begin grooming her. I instantly relax, there seems to only be the horse and myself right now. I'm so lost with grooming the horse I don't hear the footsteps approach behind me.

"Who knew you would even like horses?" he says behind me.

I turn around and see him. "What are you doing here?" I put the brush down.

"I'm your aunt's assistant." His voice coming out with an obvious tone.

"I'm aware of that. What I'd like to know is why."

He takes a step closer. "Incase you have forgotten, I'm your protector, so I must keep an eye on you at all times."

"Trust me, I'm already well protected: by my Warrior."

"Really? I could've sworn this was an all girls' magic school, doesn't that mean your Warrior can't fully protect you here?" A hint of a smirk grazes his lips.

"Th-that may be true, but I know Edward will do anything to keep me safe."

His eyes seem to get harder and darker with what looks like slight rage. "Trust me, he can't fully protect you from what will happen."

"What are you talking about?" I quirk an eyebrow, curious about what he means.

"Meet me out here later tonight and I'll be sure to tell you." He turns to leave.

"Wait!" He looks in my direction again. "Does this have anything to do with my great-grandmother?"

"You'll just have to wait and see, Miss Brooks." He turns again, walking out of the stable, leaving me alone to think and process all of this.

Woo! So glad to have this chapter posted! And looks like Ally will have another late night rendezvous with Kartik. :D

Hope you all enjoyed this chapter and look forward to the next because I am already cooking that one up! Please, review! They make me very happy and write faster! :)