Shirts and Skins

Chapter Thirty-Two

Lindsay's POV

The final horn blew. The Jets had won. They were on a five game point streak, and our fans couldn't have been happier. My co-worker danced and high-fived each other and high-fived the drunk fans as they walked past us. Everyone was in a great mood.

My co-worker and I cleaned up our booth and headed back to the store to see our manager. As we were walking, I received a text from my Mom, saying she'd pick me up from work. I loved getting rides home from work. It was much better than busing from downtown at 10:00 pm.

The Jets next game was on Saturday, but I decided to take it off because it was my birthday, and I was going to convince my cousin to take me with his spare ticket. And get drunk with my friends.

My co-workers all wished me Happy Birthday as we said good night to each other. I walked out the gate doors just as my parents pulled up.

"Perfect timing." I said as I quickly jumped into the car, as to avoid holding up traffic.

We drove down Portage Avenue, but took an unusual right turn.

"This isn't the usual way home." I stated, quite curious. "Where are we going?"

"It's a surprise." My Mom turned around and smiled at me from the passengers seat.

I looked at Eva, who was sitting beside me. She gave me a big smile.

Now I was really suspicious.

From the looks of it, we were heading towards the industrial district and the airport. I slowly turned around and looked into the back seat of my parents SUV. There was a full suitcase.

"Are we going to the airport?" I asked.

No one answered. All that answered was Eva quietly singing along to Hunter Hayes song "Storm Warning" that played on the radio.

"Guys. Are we going to the airport? What's going on?" I asked again. Nervous now.

My Mom looked at my Dad. "Let's just tell her."

My Dad nodded.

"We're taking you to the airport." my Mom smiled.

"What? Why? Shouldn't I have packed?"

"I packed for you." Eva said to me.

"You packed for me?" I looked at her, then turned to face my parents. "Where am I going? Where are you sending me?"

"We're not sending you anywhere. Jeff's bringing you down."

"Bringing me...what?" I was so confused. "What's happening?"

"Oh my god, you're so stupid." Eva huffed. "Jeff wants you in Raleigh for your birthday, so he's paying for your flights there and back."

"What?" I whispered.

I understood what was happening now, but it was all just a real shock.

We pulled up out front of the airport and my parents jumped out to help me with my bags. I left my work bag in the car, grabbing my headphones.

"So your carry-on has your iPhone charger, a few books we found in your nightstand and your sketchbook. There's also a baggy sweater and yoga pants if you want to change. Eva's idea." My Mom said as she helped me put my bag on my back, then gave me a big hug and a kiss on the cheek.

"Wow, okay, thanks. You guys are okay with just sending me away during my birthday?" I asked them.

"Lindsay, you're turning 21, it's totally fine. We can do birthday dinner when you get back." My Dad said as he hugged me.