Manic [h.s]

#016

"You might be insane

But maybe we're the same"

Gimme What I Want | Miley Cyrus

February 06, 1999

IRIS XANDER

The van has been quiet for the past hour, each of us lost in our own thoughts. I find myself staring out the window, watching the cityscape pass by – the towering buildings, the bustling streets, the blur of people and vehicles. As much as I wish for some clarity on where we're heading, it seems everyone is content to remain silent, leaving me pondering alone.

I narrow my eyes as the vehicles moves past the city, getting closer and closer to the oceanfront. The sunlight takes a dip into the massive waters as we continue onwards. I glance at the driver as he takes a sharp left, the tires scraping against the asphalt.

My view is obstructed by several vehicles in all directions, surrounded by lush trees and greenery. Eventually, the imposing houses come into focus, each probably three times the size of the one Niall and I share in Nashville. They stand in perfect alignment along their lanes, towering above us as the van pulls up in front of one of the splendid bungalows. While not as extravagant as the others, it's still the most nicest place I've ever laid eyes on.

The van reaches the gravel front yard, and it slows to a stop. One by one, everyone begins to open their doors and step out, so I do the same. Stepping onto the gravel, I feel the grit crunching under my shoes as the wind nips at my clothes, carrying with it the unmistakable scent of salt.

I look over at the house, the buildings' exterior walls are painted white, typical of the beachfront neighbourhood. I look behind the two-story structure, taking in the view of the surprisingly calm sea. It feels like the beach stretches endlessly, with the waters shimmering as they gently lap against the sand.

"Where the hell are we?" Niall voices my own question, squinting against the sunlight as he joins me, his bag tightly clutched in his hand.

Right on cue, Liam strolls past us, answering Niall's question. "Welcome to Cannon Beach."

Niall and I exchange a look, both of us clearly confused. "Looks like a beach house," I say, looking at the building. "Are we staying here?"

"If only I knew," he replies.

"Harry!" the unfamiliar voice startles us as an elderly man strides past, heading towards Harry who's making his way to the front of the house. "How are you, kid? Long time no see."

But true to form, Harry looks anything but amused. "Don't call me that," he snaps, turning away and disappearing into the house.

"Rude as always," the old man mutters as we both make our way into the house. His attention shifts to us, and he narrows his eyes. "Haven't seen you two kids around before. Are you new here?" he asks, and I nod, amused at the fact that he's referring to us as "kids," despite us being fully grown adults. I'm already starting to like this guy.