Ethereal

4

Kim went home, dazed. She felt so alive, so happy. What did that kiss mean? Was it a sign that he liked her? She has never felt so confused in her life.

"Beware of boys. They are the main enemies in this world. Don't let any of them get to your head because if you do, they will stay there and will never leave." Kim's grandmother told her that once, but she never understood what it meant. Now she did.

"Kim...hospital...Dr. Knorr." The moment she heard her name being said, she froze. Was that her Mom?

"Ah yes, yes. I'll talk to her about it soon. Thank you."

The living room door opened, startling Kim. Her Mom appeared, as startled to find her own daughter eavesdropping on what seemed like an important conversation.

"Oh, Kim. You're back early today."

"Yes. Davis had to go early. The sunset's ugly today, anyway," was Kim's reply. Her mother flinched at her tone but casually brushed it away with a forced chuckle.

"Also, I have good news for you! We are going away for quite a while. It'll be fun. Like a holiday, without a father, of course," she continued, glancing at her shoes when she mentioned the word 'father'.

"You're sending me to the hospital. I know. I'm not a little kid anymore, Mom. You should treat me as an adult now!" Kim shouted, and left the house. She was surprised at herself. She never screamed at her mother before. But a bigger part of her was angry. Angry at her mother for wanting to send her away. Away from Davis just after his "might have been a" confession.

She looked at the sky. It was getting darker now. She glanced at the forest. She has always been afraid of the forest.

"Davis." she whispered as she entered the forest.