Go Gators...I Guess?

Chapter 2

I had one week left until my birthday. Lorraine is non-stop go now. There surely isn't that much to plan for my birthday. We have a group of friends we hang out with so maybe she's planning something with them. I told her I'm good with anything because I do not want the extra stress of planning a party on top of my exams. It's almost destiny that my birthday is the day after final exams. I'll finally be able to let loose. I catch myself getting distracted from studying. Stop Maisy!

As the night goes on, I study my butt  off. This chemistry test will be the hardest one but I know I'm prepared.

*Bing* I have a text from...my mom.

So have you decided if you're coming home for the summer yet?

Oh no. I forgot to tell my mom I'm already registered for my summer courses. My face turns hot. I should not be worried about this in any way; my parents have always encouraged my studies. I just hate that I delayed mentioning it to her. This conversation is more than text worthy so I pick up my phone and dial my mother's number.

"Hello?"

"Hey, Mom!" I try to sound happy because I know in my gut she's going to be a little upset. I've only stayed home during Christmas breaks and long weekends since I've been in Gainesville.

"Oh...Hey, darling! What are you up to?" she asked.

"I'm just finishing up studying for the night. Finals are right around the corner, you know."

"Ah, yes. Parents received emails about that this week," she began, "Dad and I thought about taking a mini vacation down to Gainesville to see you for your birthday. Wouldn't that be nice?"

"That would be wonderful! Lorraine is planning a surprise for me on my actual birthday, so you and Dad should come on the 15th." I'm glad I mentioned that because now our plans will not collide.

"Okay! Sounds great! I'm also assuming you are taking summer classes again?" My mom knows me all too well.

"Yes ma'am." I reply.

"Alright. I think that's a splendid idea. I'm so proud of your ambition, Maze."

I almost begin to tear up. Like I've said before, I'm blessed with the most supportive parents.

"Thanks, mom. I love you. But I should get some shut eye. I have a 9 a.m. class and I need to be alert. I'll talk to you soon about next week." I tell her.

"Sweet dreams, honey." With that last sentence, she hangs up.

My mom really is a great woman. It's weird to think she did not want me to come here at first. She eventually warmed up to it though. I am always sure to keep her in the loop with the big stuff. That was part of the deal for me to be able to attend  the University of Florida.

After I hang up, I go into our bathroom suite in my dorm room and wash my face as well as brush my teeth. I then look at myself closely in the mirror. My face is broken out. I'm bigger than the average 'skinny' girl. Right now, I'm exercising and dieting for the summer. I've made progress and I'm actually very proud of myself. I trace the line of freckles I have under my eyes and across my nose. I've always thought my nose was slightly to large as well... One thing I do love about myself is my eyes. They're brown and green but turn green in the sunlight. Just like my father's.

Lorraine opens the door to our dorm with the biggest grin on her face.

"What's got you so happy?" I ask her.

"Oh nothing.." She trails off with the most sarcastic tone I've ever heard her use.

I lower my eyes at her and scowl. I always do this to intimidate her into spilling the beans about something.

"Stop, Maisy! You know that always works on me. Besides, I seriously can't say anything. It's part of the birthday surprise!" she informs me. I just flash her a smile and finish my bedtime routine. I plop into my bed and turn off my lamp beside me. The room is now pitch black.

"You're going to have a great birthday party next week, Maze." Lorraine whispers to me.

I can only imagine what all she has planned...