Intertwined (Published)

Birthdays and First Dates

My 15th birthday

First thing in the morning

I couldn’t have mistaken it.  The locker where a rose is tucked in the handle was mine.

There was a note with it.

I nervously opened it.  I don’t know what to expect.  I was hoping it didn’t come from Peter or Allan.  I really wouldn’t know what excuse to use this time around.

Fifteen...

 

Tom was right.  You need your educational date.  And since I was asked to fill in Tom's shoes, I will take you out.

 

Real world.  Real date. 

 

Pick you up at seven tonight.

 

I smiled to myself.

Travis!

“Happy birthday!”  Cindy said behind me.

I quickly tucked the rose inside my locker.

I should probably tell Cindy everything.  Except that in a way, I’m also like Travis.  I don’t always tell people about every single detail in my life.  And right now, it’s embarrassing to admit, even to her, that I need an educational date from my brother’s best friend before I really become confident of going out with boys.

“Thanks.”  I said.

“Anything planned?”  She asked.

I shrugged.  “I don’t know.  Maybe just a simple family get-together.”  That wasn’t a lie.  For years, Travis is a part of my family too.  And right now, he’s the only person who probably understands the pain I still feel on a daily basis for losing my brother.

“That’s nice.  I think you needed that after…”  She trailed off.  “Well, I think it’s nice to strengthen family ties.  Especially on your birthday.”

I nodded.  And somehow, I wished my parents felt the same way.  But I know, Tom’s death crumbled their already failing marriage.  For years, we refuse to see the elephant in the room.  My parents were more busy with work than with each other.  Apart from the weekly family dinners, they don’t see much of each other at all.  And with Tom gone, they chose to mourn apart.  Unfortunately, they force me to do it by myself too.

***

Seven O’clock in the evening

My 15th birthday

I waited in my living room anxiously.  I wore a pair of white Capri pants and black halter top.  I didn’t know how to dress.  But I was pretty sure I looked nice.  Not that I wanted to impress Travis.  But this is a practice date anyway.