Chapter 1, Bye New York

Today's my last day at my school in Manhattan, and I was not looking forward to it at all.

Like you know the feeling when you've become so used to the environment that it feels like a big happy family. That's the feeling I had about my home until my family decided to be evil and shift to San Fransisco. Why? Because we have more family there.

At least that's the reason my parents tell me. The real reason, in my opinion, is that dad got a new job as an executive there. And my mom also wants to leave Manhattan cause she wants to live in the same city as the rest of my family.

But did anyone ask about my opinion? No.

"Mom, do we seriously have to move? I mean I'm doing great at my school, and there are plenty of jobs in Manhattan where dad would get paid the same as that job in San Fransisco." I said as I took a bite of waffles. Waffles, my favorite thing to have for breakfast, tasted bland to me then.

"Of course we have to go, sweetie. Look this job is what he likes doing. And he'll be paid well for it. Plus California is beautiful, and after you see how big our house is, you'll stop complaining. And you'll be with all your cousins," she said as she washed the dishes in the sink.

'Yeah right,' I thought. 'Cousins who don't even know I exist.'

"I'm done," I put down my plate. I was not in the mood for food anymore. How would I be? When I felt like chaining myself to this house so that I wouldn't have to leave.

But I couldn't. I had to face the fact that we'd have to move out today, and that this house will belong to someone else soon. And that person would get to live in Manhattan, whilst I have to live in San Fransisco. I guess that's how life is, unfair.

I got up and made my way upstairs to my empty bedroom. Boxes upon boxes were stacked containing my books and furniture. The removal guys would be here soon. My outfit was laid out on my bed, which was laying there by itself, with no sheets, since they'd been tucked away as well.

I looked at the mirror, which was still standing up against the wall. I changed into my clothes. I wore an oversized sweater with the front tugged in my jeans and a pair of white converse.

"ASHLYN!" my mom called from downstairs.

This will be fun. I sighed as I slung my bag over one shoulder and headed downstairs.

"Did something happen? You look awfully happy," I muttered as I reached the last step of stairs.

"I'm just happy that we're leaving. That's all. Now get your smile ready! It's your last day after all!" she chirped happily.

I forced a smile and said, "Thanks I'll try to enjoy it."

She smiled and waved goodbye as I walked down the hallway to the front door. I closed it on my way out and was greeted by the bustling noise from the busy streets. This was one thing that I would not miss about Manhattan.

...

After the bus stopped at the bus stand, I had arrived at my most favorite place in the world. Wait, no, scratch that. Second most favorite. First would definitely be the public library.

I walked down the hallways, alone. Nothing unexpected. I took out the book I needed and headed to maths class.

I sat down beside a girl named Lily. She wasn't really a friend. We were more like book buddies. We often discussed books together at the library and helped each other out at studies.

"I heard you're leaving," she said facing me.

"How did you know?" I asked.

"Word travels fast around this school," she shrugged.

"Well yeah, I am," I laughed a little.

"Thank you. For being a good friend," she smiled and gave me a quick hug.

"Aw you're welcome," I smiled, as class started.

...

After school had finished, both me and Lily visited the library once more, just for old times' sake. We talked about books for the rest of the time, and how she'd miss her book buddy after I leave. She had bought me a gift, which surprised me. She had gotten me a book.

...

After coming home, I changed my clothes and wore a grey oversized hoodie, with black jeans and a pair of converse.

I went downstairs to find dinner ready. Mac n cheese. My last dinner in this house.

"Said goodbye to your friends?" my dad asked trying to make small talk during dinner.

"Mhm," I mumbled absentmindedly, as I made my way through dinner. After I finished dinner, I got up from the table and cleared my plate, leaving my parents talking.

I made my way upstairs and packed my suitcase, and added the book Lily gave to my handbag so that I'd be able to read it on the road. I looked out through my window and saw a van pulling up to our driveway.

"The removal guys are here!" I called out as I dragged my suitcase downstairs. Everyone came out of the kitchen. Mom and dad started bringing down boxes from upstairs to make it easier for the removal guys. I did the same. Soon the entire house was empty.

I was sitting in the back of our car, starting to read the book that Lily had given me. We began to drive as the removal guys followed us. I leaned against the window, looking out on the street. The street I'll miss forever.

"How long will it take to get there?" I asked.

"Approximately 42 hours," mom replied from the front.

This was going to be a long ride...