Unsure of how to broach the subject of her situation with Amber, Jon, or anyone else for the moment she took in the dinner. This lively atmosphere was something Sarah was unused to.
When she'd have meals with Tiffany, Melissa and the original Amber she has always led the conversation. They'd converse about cheerleading, drama unfolding around the school, different fashion and occasionally dating. She hadn't thought it at the time, but it felt superficial looking back.
Then there were meals at home. For the most part Sarah had rarely eaten with her mother and father. The main reasons they'd all eat together were for holidays or when her dad needed to impress clients.
"Sarah said Mrs. Getherd thinks she could get a scholarship for writing, right Sarah?" Sarah perked up hearing her name.
"That's right! Mrs. Getherd said I just need to send some examples of my work. It's kind of nerve wracking, but I'm very excited." Sarah told the assorted group happily.
"That's wonderful news Sarah! Perhaps I'll need to plan a celebration dinner with your mother when you get accepted." Linda chuckled.
"That's a great idea Mrs. Gibson! " Renee cheered, Mikey joining in clapping.
"You'll have to let me join the planning committee. I'll make sure Jon does his share of the manual labor." Amber joined in, patting Jon's arm.
"Wha-?!" Jon gasped at first, but quickly looked between Amber and Sarah. "Yeah, I wouldn't mind at all. It's the least I could do."
Sarah thought Jon had a strange look in his eye as he looked at her, but she was just overwhelmed by the support.
"B-But I don't even know if they'll like my work yet. I don't want you all to get your hopes up and not live up to your expectations." Sarah slumped in her seat a little.
"Don't worry Sarah, as long as you do your best we'll be happy. We're always here for you." Julie put a hand on Sarah's shoulder.
"Thank you, I really appreciate it everyone." Sarah allowed herself to smile.
The rest of dinner Sarah was more active. A part of her told herself she was just trying to keep up appearances and learn about the people in her new life.
She had to remind herself this was not her. She wasn't some writer lost in her own world. She was Sarah McMillan.
After dinner Sarah knew she had to make a decision. She needed to make progress on fixing things. Her best bet seemed to be Jon, but she really thought Amber could help her.
Sarah wasn't sure if she wanted to talk to Amber for a sense of normality, because she looked up to the older girl, or if it was morbid curiosity. Was there any part of Amber that remembered how they had been?
Maybe she should just try talking to them both?
