So this was what it was like? Moving on?
Carmen took a deep breath as she stepped out of Elm Tree House. She picked up her backpack and her handbag. Most of her other stuff had already been stolen.
She handed the bags over to her social worker and then the 15 year old crossed her arms. Weakening, Carmen gave in to the temptation, and she looked back at Elm Tree House.
A crowd had appeared at the door, watching her.
But Carmen knew she couldn't speak to them. They'd hurt her.
And yet…she'd miss them.
Weakening completely, a couple of tears escaped Carmen's eyes and she ran over to the crowd.
They all hugged her at once, all her friends, or the ones that were left at least.
Johnny wasn't hugging her; but he was crying.
Carmen let go of everyone and stood in front of him, her tears coming out just like his.
"This is it, huh?" Johnny said.
Carmen nodded. "Yeah." She whispered.
"Will you write?" he asked.
"Every week. And I'll phone. I promise you, Johnny." She said.
"Carmen, I know I hurt you, and I apologize, I really am sorry."
"I know. I'm sorry too."
"I…"
"Johnny…"
"No, wait."
"Yes?"
"Carmen, I just want you to know that, wherever you go…I'll wait for you. I love you." He said sincerely.
Johnny had never said that before. They'd been going out for the past year or so, but they'd never said that.
"I love you too." Carmen said, and she knew she meant it.
With that, she pressed her lips to his and, with a final sob and wave, she climbed into the car with her mum, Helen.
"You ready, sweetie?" she asked.
Carmen looked back at her friends, then sighed and nodded at her mum, fastening her seatbelt.
"It's now or never." She said quietly, and as they pulled out of the drive, Carmen waved until her friends were out of sight.
I love you all.