One Night

Freshman

The morning sun filtered through the curtains, illuminating the Cantrall-Baker home as Kylie and Malia prepared for a momentous day. Ava was starting her freshman year of high school, and the excitement and nervousness in the air were almost tangible. Kody, their lively baby, sat in his high chair, banging his toys with delight, oblivious to the whirlwind of emotions surrounding him.

Kylie flipped pancakes on the griddle while Malia set out fresh fruit and juice. "Are you ready for today, Ava?" Kylie asked, glancing over her shoulder at her daughter, who was pacing in the living room, adjusting her new backpack.

Ava turned to them, her face a mixture of excitement and anxiety. "I think so! But what if I can't find my classes?" she fretted, biting her lip.

Malia smiled reassuringly as she finished pouring juice. "You've got this, Ava. Just remember to take a deep breath and follow your schedule. It'll take a few days to get used to it."

Ava nodded but still looked uncertain. "What if no one talks to me?"

Kylie set the pancakes down in front of her. "You're friendly and approachable; people will want to talk to you. Plus, you'll see some familiar faces from middle school."

Kody gurgled, reaching out for Ava, who smiled and leaned down to give him a kiss. "You'll always have me cheering you on, Kody!" she said, her nervousness easing as she looked at her baby brother.

After breakfast, they gathered their things, and Malia snapped a quick picture of Ava, who was dressed stylishly, ready for her first day. "This is going to be a big year for you, Ava. Let's capture the moment!"

With the car packed, they headed out. The drive to school was filled with Ava's chatter about her hopes and fears. "I heard high school can be really different. What if it's overwhelming?"

Kylie glanced at Malia, both of them sharing a knowing look. "It can be, but remember, it's also a time for growth and discovery. Embrace every opportunity," Malia said, squeezing Ava's hand reassuringly.

As they arrived at the bustling high school, the atmosphere was electric. Students rushed about, some reuniting with friends while others nervously shuffled toward the entrance. Ava's eyes widened as she took it all in.

"Okay, here we go!" Malia said, pulling into a parking spot. "Let's get you to your first class."

They stepped out of the car, and Ava hesitated for a moment. "What if I don't find my way?"

"Just keep your phone handy, and we'll be just a call away," Kylie reminded her, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. "You can do this."

They walked toward the entrance together, Kody giggling in Malia's arms. As they approached the school doors, Malia knelt down beside Ava. "Remember, it's all about new experiences. Make the most of them!"

Ava took a deep breath and nodded. "Okay, I can do this!"

They reached the classroom door, and Ava turned to give her moms one last hug. "Thanks for everything. I love you both!"

"We love you too, Ava. Go make some memories!" Kylie encouraged.

As Ava stepped into her classroom, Malia and Kylie lingered for a moment, watching her walk in with a mix of pride and nostalgia. "I can't believe she's in high school now," Malia said, her voice filled with emotion.

"She'll be just fine," Kylie replied, confidence shining in her eyes. "She's ready for this."

With Kody contently babbling away, they decided to take a stroll around the school while waiting for the bell to ring. They chatted about Ava's potential high school experiences, from clubs to sports, while Malia jotted down notes for an upcoming project.

Finally, the time came to pick Ava up after her first day. The parking lot was buzzing with students, and Kody clapped his hands, excited to see his sister again.

When the bell rang, Ava emerged with a bright smile, her face lighting up when she spotted them. "Mom! Mom! Kody!" she called out, rushing over.

Kylie knelt down, and Kody reached out for Ava, squealing in delight. "How was your day?" Kylie asked, enveloping her in a warm hug.

"It was awesome! I saw some old friends, and my teachers are really cool! I think I'm going to join the drama club!" Ava exclaimed, her enthusiasm infectious.

Malia beamed. "That's wonderful! You always loved acting. What else did you do?"

"We went over our schedules and had a tour of the school. I'm a little nervous about the homework, but I think I'll manage!" Ava replied, her confidence growing.

As they headed to the car, Kody babbled excitedly, and Ava recounted her day in vivid detail, sharing funny stories about her teachers and classmates.

Once they were settled in the car, Malia turned to Ava. "How about we celebrate your first day with ice cream?"

"Yay! Ice cream!" Ava cheered, her face lighting up even more.

At the ice cream shop, the three of them gathered around a table. Ava animatedly shared her plans for high school, her aspirations shining through. Kody, sitting in his high chair, clapped his hands in approval.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden hue over the shop, Kylie and Malia exchanged glances, thankful for the wonderful day they had all shared. They knew that high school would bring challenges, but together as a family, they were ready for whatever came their way.

In that moment, surrounded by laughter and the sweet taste of ice cream, they embraced the journey ahead—one filled with new beginnings, cherished memories, and the unwavering support of family.