Lost

Chapter 1 Jacquelyn

"Girl, I can't believe you're going by yourself," my best friend Stacy said.

"Yeah. I promised myself that after I graduate high school, I'd work my butt off to finally enjoy life. I didn't want to get stuck in college like everyone else. I want to see the world," I exclaimed.

She laughed.

"You sure made that happen. I thought you were going to live at your job."

"I had to work twelve-hour shifts to get to where I am today. Finally, I have the golden ticket in my hands," I said, glancing down at my plane ticket.

Japan. I had finally saved enough money for a month-long stay. It had been my dream for years. I first got into Japanese culture through anime, of course, but over time I realized there was so much more—crazy game shows, the food, the people, the culture itself. While I had no plans to move there permanently—I'd miss home too much—I could at least visit as much as I liked before settling down. Well, if I ever settle down. That part of my life wasn't mapped out yet.

"Want me to go with you to the airport to see you off?" she asked.

"No, Stacy, it's okay. I'll call you every day, I promise."

"You can call me from there?"

"Duh. I just have to figure it out. I'll read about it. If that fails, I'll video chat or something."

"Sounds like a plan," she said happily.

Stacy helped me finish packing, and when my ride arrived, she helped load the van. I had two big suitcases—after all, I was staying a month. Even the driver gave me a look as I loaded the luggage. I shot him one back: mind your own business.

Don't judge me, sir!

It took about two hours to reach the airport. It was super early in the morning. I liked early flights—less rush—but I also hated waiting for the lanes to open. Well, you can't have it all.

I pulled out my phone to text Stacy while waiting to check in.

[Me] Made it to the airport, just waiting.

[Stacy] Ugh! I always hate waiting. Got your passport, right? Forgot to ask. If not, I'll drive it over.

I checked my bag.

[Me] No need. I got it along with my wallet. If I take it out, I'm putting it back right away. I don't care if it holds up the line—I can't lose this stuff.

[Stacy] Got that right! So...are you planning on meeting anyone special there? I know you've been making Japanese penpals.

[Me] rolls eyes OMG, stop!

[Stacy] laughs I mean, why not? Plenty of sexy Japanese guys.

[Me] You've forgotten one important thing. My Japanese is terrible. I only started studying last year. I can get myself out of trouble or ask for help, maybe order food or buy a few things. That's it. I haven't learned how to pick up guys. Besides, even if I meet someone, it wouldn't go anywhere—I'm not moving to Japan, and I doubt he'd move to Texas.

[Stacy] Excuses, excuses. Well, if I'm right, you better tell me everything.

[Me] rolls eyes Fine.

[Stacy] Yay!

Another hour passed before they started taking luggage. Once my hands were finally free, I headed to security with just a small bag for my essentials: wallet, passport, phone, charger, and earbuds. I kept it on me at all times—if I set it down, I'd forget it.

After more waiting, I finally boarded the plane. I sent Stacy one last text before switching my phone to airplane mode.

"Please place smaller luggage under the seats in front of you and larger luggage in the overhead bins. Any luggage that does not fit will have to be checked in, free of charge. Please remain in your seats for the duration of the flight in case of unexpected turbulence. The captain will turn off the seatbelt sign when we reach a safe altitude. In front of your seats, you will find a pamphlet about what we have to offer for this flight and emergency procedures. In a moment we will review the safety protocol."

I tuned out the flight attendant, thinking instead about the movies I had planned for the flight—team romance all the way.

I am a huge romantic, but my dating record says otherwise. Dreaming about being in love is easier than finding someone to fall for. The reality of dating has scared me off. I never dated in high school, and online flirting is as far as I've gone. I tell myself twenty is the new thirty, so no rush. I'm only twenty-five—no reason to beat myself up. Maybe I should start with finding someone to just kiss, right?

Whatever. Right now, I'm on vacation to relax and forget all that. I slaved away at an office job I hate just to sit here on this flight. While I loathe the work, I love the pay—and I'd never have met Stacy without it. We survive that toxic workplace together. She has goals; I'm just existing.

Once the safety briefing ended, I chose my movie, cleared my head, and settled in to relax, ready to enjoy the flight.