A Need for Nature

When we were young, we believed in magic. Everyone did. I did. But as we age, we stop believing. But I didn't. Call me crazy, but I know it's real. It's easy to believe. All you have to do is open your eyes.

The Summer before 11th Grade

I stared, deep in thought, at the butterflies clustered by a bowl of milk on the ground. It sure was odd to have a bowl of milk lying around. Maybe Kendra's grandparents have a cat.

"Hey Kendra, why is there a bowl of milk just lying there?" I questioned my best friend.

"Kendra hesitated for a second before saying," I don't know."

"Yes you do!" I teased. "I could see it in your expression."

"I seriously don't!" she said giggling a little as she noticed I was teasing.

I brushed my dark, brown hair out of my face and tugged on a loose thread on my shirt. Kendra slumped against the top step on the porch. I was so bored ever since I arrived here at her grandparents' house. It was kind of Kendra to invite me here for the summer before the last year of high school, but I thought I was able to do more things like take a walk through the forest. I wonder why we're not allowed to leave the yard. What's the point of owning so much land if you're never going to use it? I don't care if it's dangerous. I bet I would probably die from boredom, rather than getting slaughtered by a wild animal.

Kendra looked over at me. She could tell I was bored. I'm horrible when it comes to hiding my emotions.

"Hazel, how about we hang out at the pool?" she suggested.

"Sure," I said.

We both slowly picked ourselves up and headed inside. Right as I turned the doorknob, the door swung out towards me, and I practically fell off the porch. Suddenly, Seth barreled out of the door wearing green swimming trunks and a towel draped around his neck like a scarf.

"Oh hey, I'm going to the pool. Wanna come?" the 14-year-old offered.

"We were just going there," Hazel said.

"Well, I'll meet you there then," Seth said and dashed off to the pool.

"We'll be there in a few minutes!" Kendra called after him.

I watched him run off for a few seconds before going inside to change. That kid was always energetic. I'm sure he would understand my longing for the forest. As I walked up the attic stairs, I saw Kendra look down and smile at me for a split second. I'm sure she wouldn't care much for adventure like I would.

"Hazel?"

"Yeah?"

"You sure seem quiet today. It's not like you," she said as her face morphed from happy to concern.

Should I tell her about the forest? I wasn't too keen on having her lecturing me on why I wasn't allowed to leave the yard. But she's my best friend, so maybe she might understand. What should I do?

"No it's nothing. I'm just tired, that's all," I lied.

"Oh, is that what it was?" she asked.

"Yeah."

"I don't blame you for being tired. It was a long car ride," she said as we walked into the attic.

"I'm glad I brought a swimsuit with me," I said to myself.

I grabbed my swimsuit out of my humongous suitcase and quickly changed into it. I walked to the window in the far side of the room. Staring at the outside world was very calming. There was a beautiful view of the forest, and the sun shone down on the yard, making it look happier and brighter. But then, I saw Kendra's grandfather and one of the workers from the barn come slowly coming out of the forest. Ugh, how come they got to go into the forest? Kendra's grandfather doesn't really look like he'd be a good match against a bear. Or maybe even worse. They seemed to be acting really cautious so no one saw them.

That's it! I'd sneak out tonight after dinner! Then, I would be back before anyone even notices that I'm gone. Just a short walk, nothing more. I smiled excitedly as the two men outside briskly walked to the porch.

"Hey Hazel!"

I turned around in surprise.

"Let's go!" Kendra said and dragged me out of her room.

We race down the stairs and out to the pool. There was Seth, standing at the edge of the pool, soaking wet.

"Hey ladies! Watch this!" Seth called out to us.

At first, I was confused on what he was doing. He was walking away from the pool. Then I realized what he was doing. Once he got enough distance between him and the pool, he sprinted towards it. But right as he was about to jump, he slipped in a large puddle and slid right into the pool, the splash sending water everywhere. I doubled over laughing, and I could tell Kendra was doing the same.

As Seth resurfaced, Kendra applauded and said sarcastically," Nice job, Seth. Very impressive."

"Shut up," he snapped.

But I could tell he was laughing too. I smiled at both brother and sister as I waded into the cold water.

It wouldn't be long until it was time. Now, all I have to do is wait.