Laila (Reborn Trilogy, Book I)

Part 2. A New Life.

II.

Over the course of the next three weeks, Laila's free time ended, and soon came the time to go to New York. After the failed séance at the abandoned mansion, Laila didn't see Stephanie again, she did, however, stayed in close contact with Khamelia and Marcelle, her co-worker at the store, both of them were relieved to see her come back alone, safe and sound. Kham dedicated herself to cuddling that big, blue eyed fluff ball, while Shadow enjoyed all her pets, lying at her feet, and showing his stomach, as a sign of complete submission. In the days leading up to college, Laila considered bringing him with her, but he was too big to live in an apartment, so she opted to leave him momentarily at his parents' house, at least until she could find a place all to herself where they wouldn't have a problem with a huge, black wolf roaming around and howling to the moon. Mina and Evan escorted her to the airport, where he assisted her in the process of delivering her luggage and confirming her flight, while her mother simply watched her with wide, concerned eyes.

-Don't worry, momma. I'll be fine.-Laila hugged her.

-I know, I know, but you are my baby girl and I will never fully accept that you are growing up this fast- Mina said, with teary eyes.

-We know you are a good girl, but we can't be sure you won't find people who want to corrupt you-Evan stroked her hair.

-All you need to know is that I have a very functional head on my shoulders, you didn't raised a naive little thing, okay?

-Claire and Hanz will be responsible for your safety and managing your finances... For now, when you are twenty-one you will take care of yourself.

-You mean I have to live on a budget of only a few bucks a month? I'll starve!- Laila complained.

-You were the one who said you wanted to go to Columbian. Remember?- Her father recalled their argument, months ago.

-Well, if I need extra money, I'll get it by working part time-She crossed her arms.

-Definitely and positively not. We have already talked about that too; focus on your first year, and we'll take care of the rest.

-Okay. Laila sighed, her arms crossed-I guess I have no choice.

-Believe me, you don't want to grow up too early-Mina commented-Adult life is not as interesting or fun as you think it is, so enjoy your youth while it lasts.

About an hour later, the activity at the airport increased due to the influx of people who, apparently, were heading to the same destination as Laila: the city of Manhattan, or perhaps to NYC, about 25 minutes away.

-Passengers who purchased a New Orleans-Manhattan, please board through gate C4.

-Oh, that's my call- Laila jumped out of her seat and took her purse-I'll write to you as soon as I get there.

-Okay, darling, take care-Evan hugged her-have a safe flight.

-I hope Claire knows how to take care of you, because if she doesn't, I won't speak to her again.

-Well, considering that she is the mother of two unruly twins, I can assure you that she has experience to spare- Laila smiled at Mina's melodramatic expression. -Come give me another hug.

-I love you-her mother whispered, and kissed her hair.

-I love you both, take care of Shadow while I'm gone, okay?

-I'll try, even though he's more stubborn than a donkey, and I don't know if he'll understand that you'll be leaving for a while, not actually abandoning him.

-May I have your attention, please?- The female voice was heard again-Last call to passengers who purchased a ticket...