The Harsh Reality Of Life

A Ciggarette To Her Lips

'I can't believe it. I'm actually engaged you guys!'

Jessica's words echoed in Maddie's head. She sat in deep thought as her friends chatted amongst themselves. Maddie could never let go of the realisation that Jessica was gone. She had so much waiting for her, so much ahead of her. Getting married, starting a family with Nick was all she could talk about and how the whole group would spend Christmas at her house. Jessica's dream of writing and becoming a best-selling author was taken away from her. Her dream of travelling around the world was snatched away.

It was a Friday night at Chloe's house, Maddie's second last day back in town. She wanted to squeeze in as much time for her friends and family before she left for New York again.

Chase, Chloe, Liam, Tyler, Lea and Maddie sat together around a small coffee table in he living area. It was a cosy room, lit up with the soft lighting of lamps. However, Dean sat on the other side of the room, wondering as to why he was invited if he felt so distant from everyone. Nick unfortunately, was hardly seen since the funeral. He was the one grieving more then ever.

It was not only an evening of remembering the life of Jessica Evans but it was also a night inside with the people who mean most to you. A time where you'd cherish the people around you because one day...they could be taken away.

"How was your first week in New York?" Chloe asked, taking another sip of her coffee.

Liam played around with his glass beer bottle, making it seem like he wasn't all that interested. But truthfully, he payed close attention.

"It..."
Maddie didn't really know what to say. She didn't want to disappoint everyone and make it seem like New York was the best thing that has ever happened to her. Even though it was. She scanned the room and her eyes landed on Dean Carter who was sat at the back, isolated with just a cold drink in his hand for company.

"Dean." Tyler looked back and called out. "Come on bro, come sit with us and chat."

The two were only thinking about one thing: The Letter

Did she read it? Is she okay with what was written? A million questions ran around his head as he walked over and dragged a seat across to sit next to her. 'Don't look her in the eyes Dean' he thought to himself.

"So? Go on about New York..." Liam smiled.

"New York...is honestly amazing. The atmosphere, the lights of the city at night, the lustful cold winds. It's....it's almost like falling in love. Uh, the apartment that my mom bought for me is big enough for me. I like to think of it as 'cosy'. Settling in has been kind of tiring. Painting, redecorating, it's taking a bit of time. But I have no regrets. It's been good so far. Plus, most of my first week I've been ordering and takeout and watching television series in the evening."

"Sounds like you've really found your place." Liam smiled sadly, but it went right past everyone.

"Yeah. I have."

"But..." Lea continued. "Have you met anyone? Any friends? I mean I know it's kind of hard to find people like 'me' in New York" Lea laughed.

"Oh, dial down the ego." Tyler scoffed.

"It's true. I'm never really going to find friend that are as amazing as you guys. I haven't met anyone yet. I am however, going to work for the first time on Monday. My boss called and said that I'm going to finally meet my co-worker and that I'm probably going to be spending the next few weeks with her."

"Does this co-worker have a name?" Chase asked. "He/she sounds interesting."

"It's a she. Her name is Nina."