The Number Three

Part Four

  As I stare at my packed up bedroom a sense of sadness comes over me. This room has held all of my tears, my screams, my dreams and secrets.

"Tomorrow's the big day." Joe says from behind me. "You okay kid?"

"Just, sad." I laugh softly.

"It's not good-bye. It's see ya later."

"No, it is good bye. To that version of me. A closing door."

"We love both versions." I roll my eyes making him smile.

"Bella's downstairs."

I follow him down the stairs then I head outside.

"Ready?"

"Yes."

"What'd you bring?"

"My journal."

"Are you sure Chlo?"

"It is time to let go of who I was."

We walk around until the fire starts and then we get in line.

"Are we still carpooling tomorrow?" Bella asks.

"Yeah, we'll be at your place early for the drive. I have my last meeting tonight."

"I can't believe we're going to college tomorrow."

"I know." I sigh.

When we throw our journals into the fire I get a sense of satisfaction, until I turn around. Across the bridge I see a tall Burnette all over Trey. I am  immediately thrown back to my walk through at Yale. Sam took me to a party where I got sloshed, hot and heavy with a senior and Trey intervened. As usual that didn't end well and I ordered him to stay away from me. Again.

"Chlo." I look at Bella and she gestures to the food stands. I follow silently.

"Did you know he got into Yale?" She asks when we sit.

"Nope."

"Do you want me to come tonight?"

"No, I'll be alright."

"Been a long year."

"Agreeable." I sigh.

Chapter Two

I stand at the podium for the last time tonight. I look around at everyone here and feel sad.

"I can't begin to explain how grateful  I ma to this place. As I stood in my room this morning a weighted sadness took over. Starting over is hard. My step father told me that this is not goodbye it is simply see you later. I vow to visit whenever I come home. To support you all no matter where I am. You all have my number, use it." They all laugh and I take my seat.

I hang out longer than usual and when I get outside Trish is waiting.

"I wanted to wish you good luck." She says hugging me tightly.