Ghost of You

IV

Airplanes cut through the clouds
Like angels can fly, we'll never die
Sirens cut through the night
Like screams set on fire, rising up higher

•••••

I arrived at the airport 3 hours before my flight. I told mom 3 hours of waiting is too much, but you know moms. They never want to be late. Today is Friday. Dad is on call today so he left home early, did not even bid me goodbye. On the other hand, mom took the day off and Nathan missed his morning classes to drive me to the airport.

"Call me when you get there okay?" I nodded then gave mom one more hug. "I'll message you after I check-in and once I get there. I'll also message you before I go to sleep and when I wake up the next morning." Mom laughed at my exaggeration, but I know she wants updates. She cupped my cheeks and told me "I love you, Olivia."

I moved towards Nathan and jumped at him, wrapping my arms around his neck. "I'mma miss you, big bro." I dropped at my feet so he can mess up my hair. It's his way of showing love. "Wait for my semester break, I'll visit you there." My eyes lit up at what he said. Imagine me and my brother cruising along L.A. I squealed in excitement and hugged him again. "Thank you, for always having my back," I whispered before letting go.

I took the trolley where Nathan placed my bags and walked towards the entrance. I looked back one more time, gave them a wave, and finally went out of their sight.

It took me almost an hour to get my bags checked in and pass through security. After all that, I still have 2 hours to spare. I haven't eaten breakfast so I've decided to go to McDonald's. Okay, I know there are other cafés and restaurants to dine in at an airport, but I feel like having an iced coffee from McDonald's. If I don't get my daily dose of caffeine, I assure you, this day will go downhill.

While eating, I viewed Instagram stories of celebrities and friends. I don't have that many followers since my account is private, although I post a lot of random photos. My life isn't really that private since my parents are well known, but that doesn't mean everyone is welcome to view and like what I post on social media. Random people viewing my account is creepy to me. I guess I have to work on that part if I'm planning to become a singer. Being famous comes with great responsibility. That is if I'm going to be famous.

After finishing my meal, I went to the waiting area for boarding passengers while finishing my iced coffee. I've always loved the feeling inside an airport. It may be sad thinking that this is the last place where people make their last hug, last kiss, and the last touch to their loved ones before departing. But it's also where first hellos happen and the starting point to a new adventure in life. Plus, look at the fashion statements around. Some are simple, a pair of sweatpants and sweaters ready to sleep on the plane. Some pair their sweatpants with some cute top, like a tube top, so it won't look too dull. Others wear business attires or something casual. While some, really commit to fashion. I saw a dude earlier at McDonald's wearing a white button-down shirt, black skinny jeans, a trench coat, and a pair of black boots. I wish I can rock an outfit like that. Oh, I almost forgot, I need to message mom.

To: birth giver
Passed through security. Had McDonald's pancakes and coffee. Waiting to board the plane.

I don't usually message my mom. I only do it when I need to let her know I went out with friends and the time of my home arrival. So, this is definitely something new.

I went back to Instagram to upload a story of my own. I took a picture of my iced coffee together with my passport. You know those overrated posts where people take a photo of their passport and their ticket? It's something like that, but with a cup of coffee. Must join the bandwagon for this one. After uploading my story, I searched for tags that include Los Angeles just to feel that I'm not dreaming and that all of this, is true.