Ella Sullivan is an 18-year-old high school senior with a sharp wit and a penchant for sarcasm. Her life revolves around her close-knit group of friends and the love for her dog. But her world is thrown into disarray when she encounters Ms. Catherin...
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———༺✵༻——— POV Ella ———༺✵༻———
I wake up to the soft hum of my alarm, the early morning light already seeping through the curtains. I groan softly, burying my face in my pillow for just a moment longer before reaching over to silence the alarm. As I sit up, I take a deep breath and stretch, feeling the sleep slowly leave my body.
Today's the day Catherine and I are going ice skating—a plan we made a few days ago. My heart flutters at the thought of spending the day with her. Even though we see each other often, there's something about going out together, just the two of us, that makes my chest tighten with excitement.
I glance at my phone. No messages from Dad, but that's not surprising. He's probably on a flight somewhere, high above the clouds. Being a pilot means he's rarely home, but when he is, we always make the most of it. I'm used to it by now, but I still miss him when he's away. I sigh, pushing the thoughts aside.
Slipping out of bed, I pad across the cold wooden floor to the bathroom. I start my morning routine with brushing my teeth, the minty taste helping to wake me up fully. I wash my face next, the cold water refreshing against my skin. I run my fingers over my cheeks, appreciating how smooth and clean they feel.
I glance at myself in the mirror, my red hair a tangled mess from sleep. I grab a brush and work through the knots, wincing a little as I go. Once it's tamed, I decide to leave it down, letting the natural waves fall over my shoulders.
With that done, I head back to my room to get dressed. It's going to be cold out on the ice, so I opt for something warm but comfortable. I pull on a pair of jeans, their snug fit providing a bit of warmth and flexibility. On top, I layer a thick, oversized sweater in a deep maroon color—it's one of my favorites, cozy and perfect for a winter day. I add a scarf and beanie for extra warmth, and then slip on my boots. Satisfied with my outfit, I grab my coat and gloves and head downstairs.
The kitchen is quiet, and the absence of Dad is a familiar, if not slightly lonely, feeling. Max comes running in the kitchen as I grab a bowl and pour myself some cereal, deciding to keep breakfast simple. Before I sit down, I make Max' breakfast ready and give it to him.
Once I sit down at the table, I pull out my phone, shooting Dad a quick text to let him know my plans for the day.
After a few bites of cereal, my phone buzzes with a reply. It's from Dad, as expected.
Dad Sounds like fun, kiddo. Wish I could join you! Be careful on the ice, and have a great time. Love you.
I smile at the message, feeling a little warmth in my chest. Even though he's miles away, he still makes an effort to stay connected.
Ella Will do, Dad. Love you too. See you when you're back!
I finish my cereal and rinse out the bowl, leaving it in the sink. Grabbing my coat and gloves, I take one last look around the house, making sure I've got everything. Then, after scraping Max behind his ear, I'm out the door.
