there's a first time for everything

the invitation

On Friday in the afternoon, I walk outside with my mom's keys so I can get the mail. There isn't much in the mailbox, like usual—partly since we'd moved in only a couple weeks ago—but there is something different this time. I take a large white envelope out along with newspapers and bills, relock the box, and run back home. "Mom," I say, coming into the kitchen. "Look. We got a letter." I check the address. "It's for me."

Maybe it's from someone back home?

"Open it," Mom says excitedly.

I rip the top of the envelope to see an equally pale card inside. On the front of the thick card it says something in big bold letters. I read out loud, "'Welcome to the neighborhood! We invite you to a friendly gathering to meet your neighbors and get to know the place.' It's like a welcome party or something."

"Wonder who sent it," Mom says.

I point to the name at the bottom. "It's from Blake's Essentials. And there's a little note at the bottom—it says hello from Freddie."

"Oh!" Mom nods. "He probably thought to send it to us."

"Yeah, I guess," I reply. "Mom, do I have to come?"

She gives me a look. "Why wouldn't you?"

"I don't know, it's just that we only got here a week ago."

"So?"

"I just don't really want to go." Truth is, I'm nervous that there would be someone I would go to school with in a couple of weeks there. And I don't want to meet anyone prior coming to school.

"Aspen," Mom sighs. "Just this time, come with me. I promise it'll be fun."

Now I know there isn't any way out of this. I stare down at the floor and grunt. "Fine, I'll come."

Her frown dissipates. "Great! Do you want to come shopping with me in a couple days before the party?"

"No!"

"Alright, fine." She turns around and saunters away.