Between the Raindrops | ✓

Ch.22 | Monkey's

B E T W E E N

T H E

R A I N D R O P S

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Over the next few weeks, Jared kept a low profile and I did the same. I never went anywhere without someone with me, and needless to say, it began to annoy me.

"I'm going to Starbucks." I say, grabbing my bag and heading for the front door.

"I'll go with you." My mom smiles.

"I can go alone." I sigh.

"Absolutely not. Hang on just a few minutes sweetie; I'm finishing up this power point for work." She smiles over at me, and I roll my eyes while walking over to the dining room table to sit across from her.

"New magazine cover?" I ask.

"Yes! I can't wait for everyone to see it." She smiles enthusiastically. I love how passionate my mom is about her work. I hope a career comes that naturally to me. I still don't really know what it is that I want to do with my life yet, but I know times ticking. Next year is senior year, and a lot will be happening so I need to get my head in the game.

"Mom, really, I can drive myself to Starbucks. It's no problem. I'll keep my doors locked the entire time and I won't stop anywhere else." I plead, feeling increasingly impatient.

"Ugh, fine. Just keep those doors locked and come straight back home after!" She scolds with a point of her finger.

"Deal!" I smile wide. "Be back soon."

I head for the front door and happily leave, ready for my delicious caffeinated beverage. I recently got my driver's license and my mom has been letting me drive her car around sometimes, with her as the passenger of course. I think she forgets that driver's license means no longer having to have a legal twenty-one year old or older in the car with you at all times. Angie got her driver's license the same day that I did, and Jax congratulated us as he's already had his for a while.

Shane brought us out for a celebratory lunch at Fred's, since he's had his license for a while as well. Angie and I hated that the boys had theirs before we had ours, but we were still happy nonetheless.

I get into my mom's car and turn the radio on. I don't turn the volume up too loud, I can thank my nerves for that. I'm still a little wary while driving in the car, but I've had a lot of practice over the last year with my dad's numerous sessions and I feel fairly confident. I've driven a few times alone, but every time, I still get a little nervous.

I click my seat belt into place around my body and finally pull out of the driveway.

As I come upon Starbucks, I feel my tummy smile. I decide instead of going through the drive-through, I will park and go inside to sit at a table and just enjoy some alone time.

After I walk inside, I give the barista my order and wait patiently. After receiving my white chocolate iced mocha, I go over to a small table by the window and sit down.

I pull my phone from my pocket and start to scroll through Facebook. I see a picture of Angie and Jax so I hit the like button. Jax is kissing Angie's cheek while Angie smiles at the camera. The caption says, "Date night with babe", and a little heart emoji next to it. I suppose they went out last night.

They are so cute sometimes.

Suddenly, I feel a presence standing in front of me. I nervously look up into the brown eyes of Rebecca.