Camp Serendipity

Chapter One

I never thought I would take joy in hearing the sound of a school bell, but today was a special day. It's the final day of school, meaning no more homework, no more curfews, and no more detention. But most importantly, it was the true beginning of summer. The second that bell chimed throughout the halls, an army of students poured out of the building and into the streets. Buses were packed for one final journey around town and other kids were getting picked up by their parents.

One of these students is me, of course. I'm Donna Ashmore, or Don or even D.J. as my friends call me. I've been trying to get them to call me Donnie, like the ninja turtle, but for some reason it's just not sticking. Just a few minutes ago, I was a freshman, but next year I'll be a sophmore. Yeah, it's a pretty big deal.

"Finally! Goodbye South Solace High! Goodbye, Mrs. McNamara!  And goodbye Ms. Langley!" Kyle shouted as he walked backwards.

"More like Ms. Lamely." Ed chortled.

"I dunno, she wasn't that bad." Tristian shrugged. "I actually enjoyed English with her. I heard she's in charge of summer school this year."

"Tristian, you're the only guy I know that would actually miss school." I pointed out.

These are my friends. We've known each other since preschool.

Kyle Carson is the leader of the bunch. Once his mind is set on something, there's no use in getting him out of it. Edgar "Ed" Dean is our class clown, although admittedly more of his jokes miss rather than hit. Lastly, Tristian Thatcher is the Einstein of the group. Whenever we're playing games or doing some kind of project together, he's our strategy guy.

Then there's me, the honorary dude. Anything involving video games, sports, or the great outdoors I'm down for. I'm down to do almost anything, actually. As long as it doesn't involve the color pink or getting in touch with my 'feminine' side. Makes me feel gross.

"Now that summer's here, we should get to work on our three month itinerary." Tristian reminded us.

"Oh, yeah." Kyle chimed in, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "I'm thinking camping trips, beach days, and maybe even a road trip to that abandoned amusement park."

Ed's face lit up at the mention of the amusement park. "You think your brother will drive us there?"

"If we suck up to him hard enough." Kyle replied.

"That's what she said." I stole Ed's thunder before he could make the joke.

"We should definitely plan a day for kayaking at the lake." Tristian suggested.

"Count me in. And maybe we can throw in some camping while we're at it." I added.

Tristian was already making notes of everything on his phone. "I'll send more ideas in the group chat."

The path to my house first came up on our shared trip back to our houses.

"See ya!" We waved to each other as I split off from the others.

My house is surrounded by trees, and there's even a river nearby. It's like my own little paradise. Well, it would be if it weren't for a certain someone. But nevermind that. It was time to unwind.

I entered through the kitchen door, where Mom was putting one of her famous slow cook casseroles in the oven.

"Hi, honey! How was the last day?"

"Good." I took off my jacket. "Is Brandon home yet?"

"He still has some exams to take, but after that he's free until next semester." She relayed.