"I can't believe you didn't get in." he said.
Rachel stared at him for a moment.
"You, umm, you didn't have your empathic block up at the time did you?"
"At the time of what?"
"When I told you that I hadn't got in."
"No, I didn't. Why?"
Rachel bit her lip for a moment.
"I ahh, I lied."
"You lied?"
"Well, y'know… I umm, I chickened out. I didn't even do the exam."
"Why not?"
"Well, you know, I've been home-schooled and would be going up against people who went to school-school and how had done these types of things a million times over. I just… y'know. I'm a wimp."
"No you're not." Taylor assured her. "Besides there's always next year."
"Yeah, I suppose."
"And y'know, now you're free to come touring with us." He said happily. "We can, umm, put you down as a baby sitter. I know Mom really appreciated your help while we were in LA."
Rachel opened her mouth to say something, then closed it. Then opened it again.
"Oh gee Tay, I don't know. Maybe you should confirm such things with your parents before you present me with them."
"Ahh, you can't fool me. I know you really want to go. I can feel it."
She smiled.
"You so totally have your empathic block up huh?"
"Yep. I can't believe you lied to me."
"I can't believe I got away with it. I'm sorry."
"That's ok. I understand."
Taylor leant over and gave her a small kiss.
"I'll ask Mom and Dad about it and get back to you. But I'm sure you'll be able to come."
Rachel smiled.
"I would like to - if I can."
"I know."