The Other Gilbert

Welcome to Mystic Falls

I'm back to where my life had started. Back to the only place I could say I felt at peace. It feels like it's been an eternity since I have last stepped foot in this town. A part of me, no matter how at peace I am here, did not want to return. I have family here, I'm aware of that, but I haven't been here since I was a child. No matter how familiar it seems, it's not. It's been a couple of months since the death of my aunt and uncle, after the agonizing pain watching the caskets go down, I couldn't wait. I had to see them, my only family. Although, I'm well aware we aren't blood-related; there was no one else left that I can call my family.

The crisp air bit at my cheeks as I held the phone up to my ear. My suitcases feel like i've packed more than just clothes as I haul them behind me through the airport, "Yes, Jenna I'm positive. I'll be there soon."

Jenna, my aunt, has called for the fifth time on my travels to get here. I get that she was worried about me traveling on my own but after the 3rd call? Seems like she'll be anxious about my solo trip for the both os us, "Are you sure? I could come-"

"I'll be there soon, Jenna." I repeat.

"I could easily come by and-" She repeats.

"Jenna, seriously I'll be there soon." I interrupt her again before she can finish. If I had a choice to have not called her in the first place about coming back to town, I would've most definitely stayed clear from calling her. I mean, I am moving in with her so I unfortunately had to call and give her a heads up. 

On the other end, there's a beat of silence. I know on her end she's rubbing her temple to ease the headache, but she finally gives up. "Whatever you say kiddo, just wanna make sure you get here alright."

"Yeah, I know Jenna." I sigh, "I am just gonna flag a cab down and head your way." The closer I get to town, to their home the more I feel overwhelmed. I didn't think it would be. Maybe the feeling of peace I felt when I came off the plane was just a false feeling.

I don't mean to come off a bit rude or ungrateful. I am incredibly grateful that Jenna is more than happy to take me in and let me stay with them. To add another kid to watch over, I'll give her credit for taking us all three on.

"You know, It's been a long time since I've seen you. How old are you now? 10 or 11." She jokes and I know she's grinning from ear to ear. I wave my hand towards a cab that was waiting in the pick up area. The driver was nice as he rushes to my side to throw my suitcase in the trunk.

At least I know my attitude isn't bothering her. "You're so funny Jenna, did you come up with that on the spot? Amazing. I'm 15 by the way, just in case you at your old age of what 30 or 40  makes you a bit forgetful."

"Watch yourself, youngster." She pretends to be stern but I already know she's smiling.

I finally let out a small laugh, I know that I've missed her. "Bye, Jenna." I hang up once she gives her goodbyes and swing my carry on into trunk of the cab.

"Where to Miss?" The cab driver asks as he takes his car out of park.

"Mystic Falls, please."

No one knew I was coming back, no one but Jenna. My stomach flips at the sight of the Mystic Falls welcome sign. It's there that I start second guessing my decision in leaving and coming back to this town. But i'm here already and there's no turning back now. Especially now, that I am parked right outside the familiar home. The cab driver is incredibly patient with me as he sits in silence with me. Like he knows of my internal battle about leaving this car and stepping on the front porch. I had to leave, I needed to. This is a good idea, I need to stop guessing myself. Finally, I thank the cab driver and we both step out to retrieve my bags from his trunk. I hand him the fee amount and some change for his patience with me.