"It's as if I've never been to the city before." I annoyingly say to Cairo as he turns down the music in the car laughing at me when I answer my phone.
"Hello mama." I hesitantly put my cell to my ear.
"Nala, did you and Cairo get out the tunnel safely?" My mother answers in her usual worried tone.
"You have to tell me if everything is okay. Do you have enough food? Are you at the apartment yet? I knew I should've came with you."
My mother continues to speak frantically over the speaker as I roll my eyes, but of course answer politely.
"Mama, Cairo and I are fine. We just got out the Holland Tunnel and we're on our way to the apartment now. You made sure to pack the trunk with plenty of food so yes, there is enough of that. Just relax. I'll call you when we get settled." I tell her in a reassuring tone.
"Okay. Just don't forget. I love you sweetie. I'm proud of you." I can't help but smile at her kind yet still worried words.
"I love you too."
Cairo chimes in a "I love you Mom!!!" from the drivers seat, my mother hangs up and I feel myself breathing again, somewhat.
This is exactly where I said I would be all my life and now I'm here and honestly I'm scared out of my fucking mind. I can't wait to get on stage and start it all but there is still more I need to learn.
Blocking out Cairo's babbling about the newest issue of Vogue, I wander off in my thoughts; the usual. Being here in the city, attending the American Musical & Dramatic Academy for Musical Theatre, this will all mold me into a better person.. or the worst person to walk planet earth, my subconscious mocks me.
I look out the window and let the dirty New York air hit my face. It's strange how comforting this is but I don't question it. I smile and try to mean it and let myself let go while we blast Hozier in the Jeep.
Cairo gives me a reassuring smile telling me that this is only the beginning. We squeal in unison.
I hope New York is as ready as we are.
