Rockstar Roommate

~Part Three~

The airport was bustling with activity, a chaotic symphony of announcements, rolling luggage, and hurried travelers. I stood at the departure gate, my heart pounding with a mix of excitement and nervousness. In just a few hours, I'd be on a plane to Los Angeles, leaving behind everything I knew.

"Mia, are you sure you have everything?" my mom asked, her voice tinged with worry as she double-checked my carry-on.

"Yes, Mom, I'm sure," I replied, giving her a reassuring smile. "It's all here."

She hugged me tightly, her eyes glistening with tears. "I'm going to miss you so much, sweetie. It's going to be so quiet around here without you."

"I'll miss you too," I said, feeling the familiar sting of tears. "But I'll call all the time, and I'll be back for holidays."

She nodded, her grip tightening. "I know. I'm just so proud of you. This internship is such an amazing opportunity."

"It really is," I agreed. "I can't wait to get started."

Just then, I heard Zoey's voice calling out from the crowd. "Mia! Over here!"

I turned to see her weaving through the throngs of people, her eyes wide with excitement. She finally reached us, slightly out of breath but grinning from ear to ear.

"Are you ready for this?" she asked, her enthusiasm infectious.

"As ready as I'll ever be," I said, laughing.

Zoey handed me a small gift bag. "Open it when you're on the plane. Just a little something to remind you of home."

"Thanks, Zo," I said, hugging her. "You're the best."

We spent the next few minutes talking and laughing, trying to keep the mood light. But as the final boarding call echoed through the terminal, reality set in. It was time to say goodbye.

"I can't believe you're really going," Zoey said, her voice cracking. "It's going to be so weird without you here."

"I know," I replied, my throat tightening. "But we'll stay in touch, Zo. I'll visit as often as I can."

She nodded, wiping away a tear. "You better. And you have to tell me all about your amazing new life in Los Angeles."

"I will," I promised. "Every detail."

As the last of the passengers boarded, I felt a pang of sadness. This was it—the end of an era and the beginning of a new one.

We hugged tightly, neither of us wanting to let go. "I'll miss you so much, Mia," Zoey said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"I'll miss you too, Zo," I replied, tears streaming down my face. "But this isn't goodbye. It's just see you later."

With one last hug, I grabbed my bag and turned toward the gate. As I handed my boarding pass to the attendant, I took one final look back. Zoey and my mom stood together, waving and smiling through their tears. I waved back, my heart full of love and gratitude.

As I settled into my seat on the plane, I opened Zoey's gift. Inside was a small photo album filled with pictures of us over the years, along with a handwritten note that read: "For all the adventures yet to come. Love, Zo."

I smiled through my tears, feeling a sense of anticipation for what lay ahead. Los Angeles was calling, and I was ready to answer.