Laura's Past Part 3

More!!!  I'll probably keep posting this as I finish each portion.  Let me know if there are any mistakes or if anything is redundant.  (Try to ignore the fact that Jennifer is extremely well-spoken for a ten/eleven year old.  I know it's ridiculous, but it amuses me.)    

                As the weeks went on, Laura began to notice that Jennifer was never at the orphanage in her free time.  Most of the girls either sat in their rooms talking or waited in the dining hall until the next meal was prepared.  Although Laura never saw her do any of her homework, it was common knowledge that Jennifer got perfect grades and was the top of her class.  Finally, Laura got fed up with her curiosity and decided to just follow her to find out for herself. 

                After school one day Laura began to follow behind Jennifer at what she figured was a safe distance.  She kept walking, keeping her head down.  Suddenly, when she checked to see where Jennifer was heading, she had disappeared.  Surprised, Laura kept heading in the same direction she had already been going.  She kept searching for a few blocks, but was unable to pick up Jennifer’s track.  Disappointed, Laura headed back to the orphanage. 

                After returning to the orphanage, Laura climbed up the stairs to her room.  When she opened the door, she discovered Jennifer, sitting cross-legged on the floor, with a large assortment of knives spread out around her.  Jennifer turned and caught Laura’s eye.  Laura quickly suppressed the admiring look that had spread over her face at the sight of such a superb array of knives.  Jennifer smirked, and Laura knew she had not been quick enough to hide her emotions.  Laura coughed, and said in an attempt at an airy tone, “Well, I guess I’ll finally be rid of you.  All I have to do is report you to Ms.  Philips and you’ll be kicked out for sure.  Weapons aren’t allowed here.” 

                Jennifer seemed amused by this.  She replied, “I’ll just pull you down with me.  Who seems more trustworthy?  The perfect student, or the girl who hardly ever shows up to class, let alone does her homework.” 

                Laura flinched.  She knew Jennifer was right.  It was also no secret that Ms. Philips disliked her. 

                “Not to mention,” Jennifer continued, “you were the one caught with the knife and your father’s blood on your hands.  Nobody can deny your affinity for knives.”        

                Laura froze.  “How the hell do you know about that?” she whispered venomously. 

                “Oh, I keep my ears open,” Jennifer said lightly.  “It’s amazing what adults will say when they think children aren’t listening.” 

                Laura began shaking in fear and anger.  “Okay, what do you want from me?  It’s obvious I’m going to have to do something for you.”    

                Jennifer smirked again.  “I would appreciate it if you would drop your curiosity about where I go after school.  It’s better for both of us if I’m the only person here who knows.”  Laura narrowed her eyes, but let Jennifer continue, “I would also like you to start doing your homework and pay attention in class.  Like I said before, better students are under less scrutiny from higher-ups.” 

                Laura huffed, “there’s no way I’m-”

                Jennifer held up a hand, “let me finish.  Since we share a room, I would like you to be under less suspicion from teachers and orphanage staff.  If they decide to search our room because of you, certain personal items of mine will be compromised.  I don’t believe what I ask of you is that difficult.” 

                “Now wait just one second here-” Laura began to protest. 

                “Before you refuse,” Jennifer cut her off, “there’s something in it for you.  If you can follow through with these requests, I can give you some of these knives.  I honestly don’t have much use for them.  I may be able to part with all of these fine knives if you could also help me with a couple of other things.” 

                “You’ve caught my interest,” Laura said, eyeing the knives.  “Exactly what sort of things do you need help with?”