A Week in Paris (with You)

Finally Finished

"Oh, my girl is graduated." My mother said with tears in her eyes.

"Yes, mom. I'm finally done…with that torture." I mentally added as we walked out of the atrium toward our cars. I had never told her how bad high school was for me, so she never found out. It was just best.

"Hey, let me buy you some lunch before you leave." She said.

"Okay. Your car or mine?" I replied.

"I'll take you, since you'll be stuck driving to the airport later." She said as I got into her car, leaving mine in the parking lot.

"Where to?" She asked.

"I get to pick?" was my reply.

"Of course, today is special. It's not everyday my girl graduates high school." She stated with a smile across her face.

"Okay, I guess you're right. How about that Chinese place on the corner, by the market?" I suggested.

"Perfect." Mom replied, pulling out of the parking lot.

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"That was great mom. Thanks. I don't think I'll need to eat until I get back from the trip." I said as we cruised down the road to the school.

"You're welcome." She replied.

"Well I guess this is it." She said, pulling into the deserted school parking lot, a few moments later.

"Yeah. I guess so. But I'll be back before you know it." I replied with a reassuring smile, trying to hold back the tears.

"I love you." She said reaching over and giving me a hug.

"I love you too." I replied, leaving the hug, and getting out of her car.

"Be safe!" She said before I shut the door.

"I will." I said with a smile, shutting the door, and unlocking my car. Sliding into my seat and shutting the door, I started the car. I pulled out of the parking lot and began the first leg of my long journey. Off to the airport.