After reading a letter from someone she has never met, Gemma Moreno is offered a once in a lifetime opportunity that could change her life forever. Torn between accepting an offer she knows she will never be able to repay, Gemma needs to decide if...
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With a final glance, I take a look at the place we have called home for the past two years. I wouldn't say that I will miss it, but I have a sense of pride knowing that I was able to keep a roof over our heads, even if it meant nearly killing myself in the process.
As I shut the obnoxiously loud, squeaking door for the final time, a broad smile starts to spread across my face. Bending down, I pick up the last box holding mine and Dom's possessions and walk towards my new adventure.
The June air is crisp for the beginning of the summer season, but refreshing as I rearrange the boxes in the back of the Jeep I purchased from the used car dealership down the street.
When the salesman placed the keys in my hand, the happiness I felt was indescribable. Walking everywhere the past two years, although good for my otherwise lack of exercising lifestyle, was a pain in my ass. It limited me a lot since I hate taking the subway, especially at night. Freedom was at the tip of my fingertips, and I could finally venture out of the small section of the city we have called home.
April and May flew by in a flash gone, and I can't believe moving day is finally here. I spent most of my time looking at different locations for us to call home. It wasn't so much finding a place, but the school districts and job opportunities available in each town.
Dom took the news of our move surprisingly well and even seemed excited about the changes coming our way. His only request was that he finish out his academic year at his current school because he wanted to spend his birthday with his friends.
I agreed since our lease was up in July, and it allowed me time to plan something that I have yet to be able to do for my brother— Throw him a birthday party.
He was beyond excited and even asked if he could invite the Newman's. The sweet boy wanted to meet the people who forever changed our lives with their kindness and thank them.
The two of them graciously accepted and excitedly arrived with more gifts in hand than should be allowed. I was grateful they came because I was way out of my element trying to control 15 boys playing laser tag.
Mr. Newman even jumped in on the fun, and Dom took an instant liking to him. Dom followed him around the obstacle course and listened to his detailed instructions on how to attack the other team. Between the youthful glow of Mr. Newman's smile to the look of admiration Dom had in his eyes, I thought my heart was going to explode.
With the last box in place, my hands reach up and pull down on the trunk door. It closes with a loud thud, and I turn around and see Dom talking to the three adults who are here to see us off.
Mrs. Markus has tears brimming her ocean blue eyes as she pulls Dom into a hug. "You be good, and call me all the time, okay?"
"I will," Dom says as his small arms wrap around her frail body in a tight embrace. "I'll miss you."
