ANDY
The first word my mouth was able form was "What?"
What the hell is going on here. Am I going on a vacation to China? After the stunt I just pulled? What about my studies? Why would my mother even debate on the severity of my punishment if I'm only leaving anyways?
"You're moving to China." Boy, I did not expect that.
"We've already enrolled you to the school where your cousins used to attend there. You'll be staying with your mom's sister, Auntie Lucille. We visited her last Christmas, remember?" It felt like a bomb has been dropped on me when my father uttered those words.
"Until when?" I say, trying to keep calm under pressure.
"Indefinitely." My mother says and my jaw drops.
"But what about my studies here?" I say with concern.
"Your father and I have spoken to the school in China and they said that with your grades and school, you would easily fit into their system and they would gladly credit the classes you've already took. We've also talked to Principal Meyers about it and we already dropped you out." It was so calm for my mother to say and yet, I feel like I have been hit by a wrecking ball.
"But mom! I don't want to move. Can't you just ground me? Or keep me locked up? Homeschool me, even? I don't want to move to China!" I debate.
"Andrea Beatrice Yang. After the stunt, you've just pulled, your father and I thought that this was the only way to keep you out of the trouble in the mean time. You brought this upon yourself and you do not get to complain." My mother scolds.
"Don't worry, Andy. China is beautiful. Very nice. You will like it there." Grandfather says, trying to console me.
I sigh, conceding once again to my family's wishes, "When do I leave?"
"Tomorrow at 7pm." My father replies.
"Okay, I better get packing then." I say, grabbing my passport and tickets and making my way upstairs.
Nanny Lorry accompanied me the entire night, packing my clothes and necessities. We ended things with a bittersweet hug.
By the time I woke up, it was already 12nn. Packing sure takes a lot of work but as I look to my phone, there were several text messages and miscalls from Tanya and Brie.
I open our group chat and instantly decide to face-time them both so that I'll only have to explain the situation once. As I tell them, it was clear that they are in disbelief. Jasper, whom they thought is sweet and loving behind his hard exterior, isn't as sweet and loving as they initially thought.
As we realize that our days as a trio is slowly approaching its end, they plan an afternoon coffee date so that we'd be Andy, Brie and Tanya, the trio, for one last time. I quickly ask permission from my mom since she might not allow it after yesterday's happenings.
"Mom! Can I go get coffee with Tanya and Brie?" I ask, already expecting no for an answer.
"Will it just be you three girls?" She inspects.
"Yes, mom. I promise." I say
"Okay but bring Nanny Lorry with you and be back before 5pm so you don't miss your flight." That was better than no so I accept her conditions.
I get into my car along with Nanny Lorry and drive to the coffee shop where Tanya, Brie and I decided to meet. As I pulled up the driveway, Nanny Lorry and I make our way into the cafe. I see Tanya and Brie and I wave at them. They smile and wave back. I order Nanny Lorry's food and drink first and let her sit in the table next to ours.
I, then, make my way to Tanya and Brie who were already eating their cakes and drinking their coffees.
"Why did you bring Nanny Lorry with you?" Tanya asks.
"It's either that or mother dear won't allow." I explain and they both mouth an 'oh'
We spent the entire afternoon laughing and talking as if we don't already see each orher everyday. It's going to be hard to imagine school without my girls. Before I knew it, it was time to leave. We bid our goodbyes and promise one another to keep in touch.
Nanny Lorry and I head home and put my luggages inside my mother's car.
The flight also became a family affair. Everyone was present, wishing me goodbye, telling me to give their gifts/souvenirs to my aunt. They all watched me as I went inside. As I look back, I could see them waving goodbye. They all looked at peace.
But here I am, trying to hide my lack of peace. I am scared. Who knows what's waiting for me in China.
Goodbye, New York.
See you in 14 hours, Beijing.
YOU ARE READING
Across Continents
ChickLitAndy is your average American school girl, except she isn't all that average. Chained by her family's chinese culture, she lets go and let loose at school. When her parents find out her double identity, they play extremes and send her back to their...
