"Today, however can change things for better or worse. The outcome depends on you."
When a marriage fails, the residue trickles down to everyone in the family. Sixteen-year-old Daya Nicole Johnston must fight to understand what is happening in her l...
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As the examination started, I thought back to the first time this torturous occurrence happened. It was my twelfth birthday party and my dad was late. I couldn't help but worry about him.
I think he had a business meeting, but he promised me he would be there. I was so worried when he didn't show up hours after the entirety of the guests had departed. I knew something was wrong but what, was the question?
Fearing the worst was what caused my first panic attack and the second, wasn't it? I was sitting in my mother's lap as I focused on the door and the sound of the phone ringing. If I listened close enough I could hear the sound of him never answering.
I don't remember exactly what happened, but I know that I was crying uncontrollably and trembling. My mom tried everything she could think of, she even hummed a beautiful song that comforted me in the past. But even that couldn't pacify my worried brain.
I only calmed down when my father finally answered the phone. He reassured me that he was okay through the speaker until he could tell me in person. He stayed in my bed with me that night, to remind me that he was there and would never leave me, ever.
"No need to worry, I'll always be here for you. No matter how gray the clouds may turn, you're the little ray of light that always manages to come through, my little Sunshine," he spoke with a furor of emotion.
My mind was engulfed with memories of my past, adrenaline took over me and I jerked up saying, "I feel better. I just want to leave, please just let me go." I shoved past everyone until I got to the front of the school building.
"I just need some fresh air," I mumbled to myself as I felt the chill in the air wrap around my body, and the wind whistled through my hair. I leaned against the cool brick wall and held my head in my hands, trying to run away from this cruel headache.
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Beside me, I heard Jay say, "Your mom is getting you out early, okay," to which I took his hands in mine.
"I want you to come with me," I spoke.
Then, he replied, "Don't worry, school gets out soon and I'll be right over."
No tears came from my eyes, just admiration as I looked him over. "I love you." As he started to speak in reply, I cut him off by finishing with, "I mean it, Jay. I don't know how I would make it without you. So, think about what you're about to say."
