Friction and Fries

CHAPTER 20: A Path Forward

When dawn broke, Kelsey awoke to the soft light streaming through her curtains. She rubbed her eyes and slowly sat up, immediately wincing at the sight of her reflection in the mirror. Her eyes were puffy and red, remnants of the emotional turmoil she had endured the night before.

As she made her way downstairs, her mother, Mrs. Prescott, noticed her weary demeanor. "Kelsey, why does it look like you've been crying?" she asked gently, concern etched on her face.

Kelsey bit her lip, hesitant to delve into the details of her heartbreak. "Oh, it's nothing, Mom," she replied, trying to downplay the situation. "Just a tough night."

Her mother studied her for a moment, sensing that there was more beneath the surface. "It's okay, sweetie, if you don't want to talk about it now," she said soothingly. "But as soon as you're ready, I'm all ears. You know I'm here for you."

Kelsey appreciated her mother's understanding but felt a surge of determination bubbling within her. "Mom, I've made a decision," she said, taking a deep breath. "I'm going to leave early today. I'm handing in my resignation. I'm thinking of applying for an internship."

The surprise on Mrs. Prescott's face quickly softened into a supportive smile. "That's fantastic, Kelsey! I saw an ad that the Harrington Group is looking for accounting interns. You should definitely check it out," she encouraged, her eyes sparkling with pride and excitement.

"Thanks, Mom," Kelsey replied, feeling a flicker of hope amidst the sadness that had settled in her heart. "I think I'm going to send in my application before I leave."

After Kelsey finished her breakfast and cleared her plate, her mind racing with possibilities. She retrieved her laptop and settled into a cozy spot on the couch. As she opened her browser, she navigated to the Harrington Group's website, her heart pounding in anticipation.

She meticulously crafted her application, ensuring every detail highlighted her skills and experiences. After double-checking her resume for any errors, she confidently attached it to an email addressed to the HR department.

"Okay, Mom, I'm leaving now," Kelsey called out as she grabbed her bag from the kitchen counter. She turned to see her mother standing by the sink, washing dishes, a warm smile lighting up her face. "I'll probably see you much later since I'm stopping by Tina's afterward."

"Alright, sweetie, have fun!" her mom replied, her voice cheerful but tinged with a hint of concern. Mrs. Prescott wiped her hands on a dish towel and looked over at Kelsey, her eyes searching for a sign that her daughter was okay. "Just remember, I'm here if you need to talk," she added softly.

Kelsey nodded, appreciating her mom's support even though she didn't feel ready to dive into her feelings just yet. "Thanks, Mom. I will," she promised, forcing a smile as she opened the front door and stepped outside.

As Kelsey stepped into the restaurant, her coworkers glanced up in surprise, their faces reflecting a blend of curiosity and confusion.

"Why so early?" Donna asked, raising an eyebrow as she wiped her hands on her apron. "Your shift doesn't start for another four hours!"

"Good morning, everyone," Kelsey replied, forcing a smile as she took a deep breath. She turned to Donna, her voice steady but tinged with emotion. "I'm just here to hand in my resignation."

A collective gasp swept through the room, and the atmosphere shifted as everyone processed her words. "What? Why the sudden decision?" someone asked, disbelief evident in their tone.

"I've decided to take up an internship," Kelsey explained, her heart pounding as she prepared for the questions that would inevitably follow.

"At headquarters?" Donna inquired, her eyes widening with interest.