Across the Maps

Chapter 27

The bell rings and everyone rushes out of the classroom and crowds in the hallway. Finally, I think. Finally it's summer and school is over. School, the dreadful thing that seems to never end.

I grab my books and stride into the sea of people in the hallway. I feel like an ant in a tsunami as I dodge and wiggle through all of the students.

Finally I make it to my locker, put in the combination, and turn the knob to open it. I swing it open and it flies back hitting someone.

"Oh my gosh," I gasp. "I'm so sorry." I move the locker door to find Cole rubbing his forehead.

"I think that's going to leave a bruise," he whimpers.

"I'm so sorry," I apologize and take a step toward him, pulling him into a hug.

"It's fine," he mutters, still rubbing his forehead.

Slowly, I turn around and grab my backpack, shoving my things in it. "Are you ready?" I question, gazing at him.

"Yeah," he replies. "Let's go."

He grabs my hand and leads me past all of the students, some of which are throwing papers, making messes, and screaming.

As we pile into the vehicle, Mom speaks, "How was your last day of school?"

"Great," I reply at the same time Cole says okay.

"That's good," Mom smiles, putting the Escalade in reverse and then pulling out of the driveway.

When we get home, I throw my bag on my bed, change into comfortable white jean shorts, a light purple shirt with gold lettering that says don't mess with the best, and white sandals with jewels lining the top.

I tread down the stairs two at a time and stride to the creek, where Cole and I hang out for a long time. But as the sun sets, the warm colors filling the vast sky, we decide to go back.

For dinner Charlie, our chef, cooks roasted chicken, fried rice, and broccoli. I scoop some food on my plate and shovel it in my mouth, taking large chunks at at time.

After taking a few bites, Mom speaks. "I'm leaving to go on book signings this Saturday. Saturday? That's only six days away.

"How long are you going to be gone?" Dad asks, finishing chewing the piece of chicken in his mouth and then dabbing his mouth with his napkin.

"Two months," Mom replies, taking small sips of her drink.

"Two months?" I ask. My voice sounds distant and far away.

I absolutely hate when Mom leaves for book signings. The house feels weird and empty when she's not here. I mean there's Dad, but he's...well...Dad. I can't talk to him about girl stuff like I can to Mom. Plus I don't like when Dad drives us to school. He always turns the radio on to classical or country music and it gets old.

"Yes," Mom says, snapping me out of my trance. "I'm going to several countries and a lot of states."

"Oh," I speak quietly. "That's great." I try and keep the sadness out of my voice, but fail miserably.

"I'm sorry sweetie. I know you hate when I leave, but I'll be back in two months."

"Yeah I know," I mumble under my breath.

I turn my head slightly and see Cole staring at me with his large bright eyes. I quickly look down, averting my eyes from him.

"I have an idea," Mom smiles a warm grin. "How about you go with me."

"What?" I ask confused.

"How about you and Cole come with me to the book signing. You both will have a blast and you'll get to travel. It will be so much fun!" She shrieks happily.

My mouth drops open and I sit there dumbstruck, searching for words to say. "I...I...I'd love to." I turn to Cole, who has a large grin on his face.

"I'd like to go also," Cole exclaims.

"Great," Mom squeals. "Then it's settled. You and Cole are coming with me to travel the world."

Sorry I haven't updated in a little while. I've been busy. I know this chapter is short but I hope you like this chapter. Vote and Comment!