36. OVERRIDE

~ Violet ~ “Honey, they’re waiting for you inside. Who are you talking to?” Barbara was staring at Violet in confusion. She looked at her daughter and at the strange man, before turning to Violet again. Violet was frozen like a statue, unable to speak. Meanwhile, Adrian was shuffling uncomfortably. He knew his arrival was stirring up trouble.  “I’ll be in the car, I’ll wait for you,” Adrian said to Violet, nodding his head before turning to the parking lot. Barbara watched as Adrian excused himself and left. Her face was still full of questions. “Sweetheart?” she asked again. Violet looked at her mother for the first time and tears began pooling in her eyes. She didn’t have the strength to act strong anymore. She knew she had to come clean about everything.  “Mom, I have to talk to you,” Violet’s voice was shaking.  “Sure, but sweetie, they’re all waiting for you–” “It’s important,” Barbara saw the look in Violet’s eyes and she knew her daughter was serious. Letting out a sigh, Barbara