Just Remember

Chapter 2

~~Mara~~

'Morning, sweetheart. You ready for your first day at school'? My mom smiles as I walk downstairs, after spending all day yesterday, obsessing over Colton calling me uptight, and helping unpack.

'As ready as I'll ever be' I mutter under my breath, and I look up to see both my parents staring at me blankly, 'Yes. I'm ready. Really excited' I lie, taking a seat at the table.

'Let's say grace' my mom smiles, her and my dad both taking one of my hands.

'Dear Heavenly Father. Bless this food to our bodies, and let us hold you in our hearts. In Jesus name we pray, Amen'.

'This is amazing, momma. You really didn't have to make this much food' I smile, staring at the mountains and piles of food on the table.

'As much as I'd like to take credit for all of this, all I made was the toast. When you were out on your walk the day before last, a lot more people stopped by with a lot more food' my mom laughs, and we all tuck in.

'Well, the toast tastes wonderful, sweetie' my dad smiles, placing a kiss on my moms cheek.

'Are you okay to give me a ride to school'? I ask my dad, and he and my mum share a look.

'We actually have a surprise for you' My dad steps up from the table, and goes and picks something from the kitchen counter.

I give my mom a look, but she doesn't let anything slip, until my dad comes over and hands me a pair of car keys.

'You didn't!' I shout excitedly, and jump up from my seat and stare at my parents.

'We did'! My mom laughs, and I pull them both in for a hug.

But, the enjoyment is short lived, 'Are you sure we can afford this'? I ask, and my dad takes my hand in these.

'Listen to me. You don't have to worry about money, that is for your mama and I to think about. But, in answer to your question, I am sure we can' he smiles, and my eyes begin to tear up.

'Thank you! So much' I laugh through the tears.

'You deserve it. Now, get going before your late'! My dad laughs, giving me a hug.

'Oh! And Mara'! My mom shouts just before I walk out the door so I turn around, 'Don't forget. Cameron's calling at 4 today, so please be home. It will be nice to be together again'.

'I would never forget' I smile back at her, and walk outside to see my new truck in the driveway.

I beam to myself. It's nothing special, and it's not new or clean, but it's mine. And, my parents bought it for me when they were struggling financially, and that makes it the most amazing gift in the world.

As I pull into the school parking lot, I spot Colton almost immediately as he leans against his truck, surrounded by boys in football jerseys.

Thankfully, he doesn't notice me, or if he does, he doesn't even look in my direction.

The thankfulness was short lived, as it was clear he spotted me when he immediately stops the conversation he's having and walks over to me as I step out my car.