Shattered

Chapter 1

Yesterday was my graduation day. I know I should've been out with my friends, traveling somewhere and celebrating the end of our teenage years, but I have nothing to celebrate, especially with them. The past four years had their amazing highs, but they were also filled with some hellish lows.

I close my bedroom door and head downstairs. "That's the last box," I say, but my dad's worried tone makes me pause. "Are you sure about this?" he asks.

He's always been very protective, as has my mom, but they only want what's best for me.

"It's not too late to change your mind," my mom adds, joining us with some food for the road.

"I love you, but I've made my choice," I reply with a smile that hurts because we've only recently grown closer.

I used to be estranged from them, not because they were bad parents, but because I was a difficult daughter. I know this decision is good for all of us. They've always wanted to travel together, and I won't stop them from doing that. I need to change my ways.

"Are you sure you have everything you need?" my dad asks, glancing at the packed car.

"Yes, Dad. I double-checked," I reassure him.

My mom steps closer and takes my hand.

"It'll be so quiet in the house now," she says softly. "I'll miss your noise, even if it was just the sound of your music blasting through the walls."

"I'll miss it too," I admit. "But this is something I need to do for myself."

"You know," my dad says, his voice trembling slightly, "we're proud of you, Elora. It's not easy to take this step. Just remember, you can always come back if you need to."

"I know," I say, trying to keep my voice steady. "I'm grateful for everything you've done for me. It's just... I need to find my own path now."

My mom hugs me tightly. "And we'll be cheering you on from the sidelines. Whatever happens, we believe in you."

I hug them both tightly and step into my car. "I know I've said this a million times, but I'm sorry for everything, and I love you. I'm so glad I've had the chance to have such amazing parents."

They smile and move closer to my window. "We love you too. Everyone goes through difficult times; you just need to decide which path to take and how to grow stronger," my dad says.

"Remember, you are not a victim. Whatever happens, the outcome is in your hands. Instead of asking 'Why me?' ask 'What now?'" my mom adds. "And don't forget, we're always just a phone call away."

"I won't forget," I promise. "I'll call you as soon as I get settled."

I blow them a kiss and drive away, the road stretching out before me as I take the first steps toward my new beginning.

Making this choice was not an easy one, but in order for me to keep moving forward and getting a fresh start, I know what I need to do.

I just finished high school and I've come to a decision that I need to get a fresh start. Maybe I'm trying to run away from my problems, trying to escape the pain, but it does not matter to me. I cannot stay here surrounded by their faces and memories.

As I drive away from my hometown I take a moment to open my windows, letting the fresh and crisp air fill the car. I look in the mirror and see my green eyes looking back at me. I take a deep breath to be reminded that these are my next steps in life and that I will have my freedom. I straighten my posture and I continue driving, ready to embrace what comes next, and for the first time I feel like I'm moving in the right direction.

........................

I glance outside the window. "Welcome to Willowfield." I pass by the sign and see tall trees surrounding me, making me feel a sense of comfort. After a 30-minute drive, I finally arrive at my new home.

My parents, understanding the challenges in starting alone in a new place, agreed to help me with rent and expenses until I settle in and find a job.

I park my car outside the apartment building and begin unloading my boxes. Fortunately, there is an elevator, so this definitely makes my moving-in process way easier.

As I move my boxes into my apartment, I take a moment to look outside the window. The street is lively with a variety of shops, each with their own charm.

I walk out to my car again. I notice I live above a colorful flower shop. I can't help but feel a sense of excitement and hopefulness that this new beginning will bring me what I'm searching for.

I head back up to my apartment and take a moment to really look around. My parents and I searched for a full apartment so that it'll be easier for me. The apartment is full of cozy and inviting furniture that gave me cottage core vibes.

I dive into unpacking my stuff. It took longer than expected, but after a long time, everything is in place.

I grab my phone and send a quick message to my parents letting them know I'm all settled in. With that done, I pack my bag and gather up the box scraps and head downstairs to dispose of them.

As I walk through town, exploring my surroundings and charming atmosphere, I see a cozy local diner tucked away in the corner of the street.

As I step inside the diner, the smell of freshly brewed coffee greets me. The interior of the diner is as beautiful as the exterior. I take a seat while the soft sound of conversations creates a comforting background noise.

A friendly waitress welcomes me with a smile and hands me a menu. I glance through it. "I'll have hot chocolate, please," I order. While waiting for that, I take out my book and begin getting lost in the pages. The peaceful vibe of this diner gives me a reason to get absorbed into the book.

As the sun is soon to set, I take this opportunity to seek a new place. In my hometown, I used to have a comfort place, a place I could run to when things went wrong or I just needed a moment of peace and quiet.

I begin heading in the direction of trees, walking until I'm no longer close to any buildings. On a path surrounded by trees and streetlights, I hear the sound of a river. I get off the pathway and walk through the forest until I reach the river.

The river stretches out before me. The scent of fresh earth fills the air, and the sound of the water is soothing. I spot a nearby bench and sit down, finding a deep sense of calm as I watch the water flow gently.