It's Only Gossip

5

"Mum! Dad!" I scream as I enter my house.

They both rush down the stairs, analysing my mood.

"What did you get?"

"I'm not going to the same college as them." I state, ignoring their question to mislead them.

"What? Didn't you meet the entry requirements or did you change your mind?"

"I changed my mind."

Both my parents sighed in relief, this is amusing. I wonder what grades they think I got. I'm killing them with suspense.

"Here's my results."

I hand them the results, quickly running to my room to start packing. I just want them to be surprised and happy, I don't need to see it. I just want to know they are. I need to get prepared for when I leave.

Immediately I heard my mum picking up the phone to call all my aunties to boast. That's how she expresses her... Everything. She pretends she doesn't care when I do good but I can tell she does. Whenever I receive bad results she doesn't shout, instead she's more proud of my results than I am.

Whereas my dad calls my name in admiration in order for me to come downstairs. He congratulates me with his huge smile. This is why I prefer low expectations. My parents aren't as strict on grades but obviously they do have some expectations. They expect me to be above average and I accept that.

This time I did beyond average. Please don't say they're going to expect me to do this good every single time. I hate high expectations.

"I decided to go to Infinity."

My mum drops the phone and walks toward me.

"That's too far!" My mum states as if I didn't know.

"I know. That's why I want to live on campus..." I mumble quietly but it was loud enough for both of them to hear.

I look down, not expecting this. I don't care, I want to go. If I'm going to have to go to a new school then I might as well have a proper new start. I don't want to regret not going there when I'm capable enough to.

The college gave ma conditional offer: 8 A*'s and 3 A's. Instead I received 1 A* distinction, 7 A*'s and 2 A's. Obviously I'm going to go. Not only did I meet the conditional offer, I even did better.

My dad whispers to my mum, "let her go. She deserves it."

For a silent five seconds she debates in her head. She's giving in. Normally if she was going to refuse she would deny instantly. This time she's thinking about it. Please say she's giving in. This is my choice to make, nobody else should be allowed to interfere.

Mum nods her head in approval. I can't believe she's agreeing.

"Go pack and I'll book your flight." She smiles.

She's smiling? This is making me nervous. Is that disappointment? I don't want to think.

"I'll tell the college that you're taking their offer and buy you a place on campus!" Dad shouts as I run up the stairs.

I glance through the window to see coloured leaves falling off the trees. The wind constantly whistles as if everything's a game. While the flowers that are somehow surviving are dancing with anticipation. Summer's finally ending.