Chapter 3

There was no school the next day, Monday; because it is going to take about a week minimum to fix up the school. It doesn't matter anyway, because I wouldn't be going to school this week, too much packing and stuff to do, or the fact that school doesn't start for another week or so. That means I have had a lot of free time on my hands. After I cleaned the bathroom, and did the dishes, I went upstairs to my room to check my email. Only one new email!?! I thought I was more popular than that!

Of course, it was from Michelle. She was basically my pen pal, but we knew each other. Michelle had lived here about a year ago, until she moved to Newfoundland. We have emailed each other ever since, and she's the only one who knows everything about me. I opened the email, smiling to myself, because I knew Michelle would be mad that she hasn't gotten an email in over a day.

From:

To:

HEY!!!!!! Where have u been?? R u OK!?!? OMG I heard about the tornado! I hope u and Ur family r all ok! How is Ur dad? I can't believe that u r moving to Florida! I know u think Ur life is over, but don't worry, because it's not. Remember, I had to move and start all over again. U will be fine Bells!

Cya,

Michelle

So that's it. I was moving. I was going to Florida. I was going to live with my father.

***

I woke up the next morning to the sound of my alarm clock. I couldn't move. I was way too tired. The drowsiness inside of me was winning, overpowering me. I didn't want this day to start, because that meant if it began, it would have to end. I felt dead beat, worn-out, drained and well, exhausted.

As soon as I got the willpower to get up, I started heading downstairs. I stepped into the emotionless room. It was like this every morning, just you and your lonesome. My mom worked from 6 to about 10 at night. Today was her first day back at work. On top of that, I'm an only child, so I have the whole house to myself.

I had packing to do, and chores. I kept my pace slow, as I strolled over to the fridge. I got the milk out, then a bowl, next the cereal. As I got my breakfast together, I noticed the calendar. August 25th. The flight was on September 1st, and my birthday, the 3rd. I had totally forgotten all about my birthday! I had my mind focused on the flight. I didn't even realize! I felt a rush of excitement running through me. Then it was gone. I had to celebrate my 17th birthday with my dad. I didn't exactly know him that well, but I still have to live with him. I doubt he remembered my birthday; either that or my mom reminded him. I had a feeling it would be a little awkward.

Suddenly, another mood swing came at me like a bullet, of pity this time. I was leaving my mom alone; to go see a man I've only met once or twice in my life. You'd think it would be the other way around. How ironic.