An Untitled Love Story

Chapter 1.

My chin balanced on my knee as I held myself together, mascara and other beauty products smeared by my hand as it brushed away the tears. I thought about my father, the way he would yell, the way he would hit.  He is gone now, and I won't ever see him again. All I've been thinking about is the moment he was threatening me, the cop cars blared down our street. They parked in front of the house, and banged on the door. Two cops had knocked down the door, and grabbed my father dragging him out. I could see the anger and rage in his eyes, it still haunts me. I leave tomorrow to move to Australia to live with my mom, I always wanted to live with her, but the court never cared at what I wanted. So far, I have been staying with my best friend, till I could get a plane ticket and my stuff together. Looking in the mirror, I try to pull myself together, I get ready for bed as my flight is quite early.

I hear the sound of my alarm go off, but it didn't wake me, I was already awake, I can't seem to sleep anymore. I change into something comfy, as the plane ride from Arizona to Sydney is 16 hours, so I wear my black leggings, black combat boots, grey tank top, and an army green jacket. For makeup, I put on my usual winged eyeliner, mascara, and a nude lip.  I get my backpack and duffle bag, since Colleen is sending the rest of my belongings to my mom's. I get in her car, and I just look out the window, but I can see my reflection staring back at me, the bags under my eyes stand out from the lack of sleep. I quickly put on my reading glasses, and I can barely read the street signs.
"What are you thinking about?" Coll asks,
"Nothing, I'm just tired"
"You're always tired. Are you at least exciting to see your mom?"
"Yes, It's just pretty surreal, don't you think? My dad was arrested the other day, and now I'm on my way to live with my mom, and I will barely get to see you, and you're my best friend. Plus, I haven't seen her in years. It's going to be so awkward"
"Don't think of it as awkward, and just so you know that we can skype whenever you want. Plus I'm paying for an international data plan, so you better be thankful!"
I let out a laugh, the first one in a while.
"Stop giggling! I'm already sad we have to say goodbye, don't make it worse by making me think about your giggle"
"I'm sorry Coll"
"It's ok. I'll save up and come visit you! But when we talk on the phone, you better tell me everything about the guys!"
I giggled again, but quickly covered my mouth when Colleen looked my way. This led her to giggle too.

We drive up to the curb, I get out, opening the trunk, and collecting my bags.  Coll comes running from the other side of the car, I quickly drop my bags, and throw my arms around my best friend. I never want to let go. 
"Be safe, and watch yourself." she whispered to me.
"I will, don't worry"
"Promise?"
"Promise."
I let go of her, and turn away, not looking into her eyes. For years, she was the only one I had to protect me.