Locked Heart

Chapter 3

I didn't really know what the date was. All I really knew- was today was the day, the fucking day... I moved in with Grandpa.

I texted Adrian last night to let him know- now I know it might be weird that my ex is taking me to the airport, to take a plane to my new home, because my first one didn't feel like a home anymore. And after that- I was never coming back. But I didn't really have anyone else to drop me off. Gur, couldn't even drive yet. Poor kid stuck in the gang and he's young- like younger than me. And I wasn't that close to Devin, besides. I didn't want to completely let go off him, you can't just get rid of feelings overnight. But after a couple years with Grandpa, I could forget everything. Or at least hope.

It's true though. I could barely sleep at night, let alone go into Ashton's room. I was scared. Scared of what? No idea. That house didn't feel like a home- it felt like a stab at my heart just thinking about everyone I lost. Everyone. No one ever stays in the life of Ashlyn Locke, sadly.

I packed up my room, and some old things in the house that actually had good memories. Shocker- I know. I took Ashton's sweatshirt and hoodie that was on the coat rack- not only were they memories of my brother, but god damn they were comfy. I was patiently waiting on the couch for Adrian to come, Grandpa told me to only pack up my belongings, leave the furniture. He would do that himself, maybe send some people over... I really don't know.

The doorbell rang, and I quickly got up and opened the door. Adrian stood outside the door, and he gave me a quick smile that didn't quite meet his eyes but I smiled back anyways. "You all packed?" He asked.

I nodded before saying, "You work out? Because these suitcases are a bit heavy." He smirked and said, "I could a box up with you sitting on top of it."

"Let's see you do it then," He smiled and shook his head, "You gonna let me in or are we gonna spend all day like this?" I quickly moved to the side allowing him to enter and I shut the door behind him. He walked to my room, already knowing where it was and I followed. I picked up my carry on and walked outside and placed it in his car. After a good 30 minutes, we were done.

"You wanna cup of water before we leave?" I asked him. I left literally everything behind, except my belongings and some sentimental objects. I had 3 suitcases when I was only allowed 2, but I could just pay for the other one, and 1 carry on, and a backpack full of "I don't even know".

"No it's okay, we'll grab Starbucks on the way." I smiled, it was kinda awkward, but I had to deal with it for another what hour? This was it Ashlyn, we're done with this fucking city. But as much as I wanted to move on, it was hard.

I didn't really have much of a choice though.

And even though Grandpa's 73, he acts like he's a 21 year old. So he's basically Ashton. That name shot pain through my whole body. He was always so optimistic, I could really use someone like that in my life. Although, everyone who enters my life never really stays.

Thoughts wondered my mind the whole car ride, leaving the whole drive silent. Only an hour had passed when Adrian spoke, "So you want that Starbucks?"

"Huh?" I said lamely, "Starbucks." he repeated. "Uhm, no it's okay. I'll just grab something from the airport."

"Unless you want some," I added, realizing I sounded a bit self-centered. "No, I'm alright." he said, "You sure?" he asked once more.

"Positive."

"Look Ashlyn, I know you want to forget about everything, begin a new beginning... but why do you want to throw away something good?"

"We had something good, Ash." Adrian said.