Across the Maps

Chapter 10

The rest of the weekend drags by slowly. I spend most of the time laying in bed under my covers watching television, mostly cartoons because I'm childish like that.

Around ten thirty, my eyes start getting tired and I turn off the tv and get ready for bed. After changing and brushing my teeth, I get into bed and close my eyes. I switch positions a few times, but soon I am in a deep sleep.

I wake to the loud noise of my alarm clock ringing. Grumbling, I slap the snooze button and turn over, closing my eyes again. When the second time my alarm clock goes off, I roll out of bed and shuffle to my mirror.

My hair is in so many tangles it looks like I have been living in the wild for a month. Letting out a large sigh, I grab my brush and start running it through my messy hair. After deciding not to take a shower, I put my hair in a messy bun and change into jeans, raven black combat boots, and a bright pink shirt with white lettering.

I trudge downstairs and into the kitchen. Dad stands at the oven, making scrambled eggs. His dark hair is disheveled and he wears a brown shirt and jeans.

"Hey," he smiles as he sees me walking in.

"Hi," my voice is groggy from the morning. I sit down in the chair and prop my elbows on the table.

I hear footsteps and turn around to find Hallie stomping down the stairs, creating so much noise I'm pretty sure it can be heard in another country.

"Hallie," I hiss. "Don't be so loud," I cover my ears for more emphasis and she rolls here eyes, something she seems to do all the time.

"Don't tell me what to do," she snaps, her voice echoing off the walls.

"Hallie," Dad says, "listen to your sister and don't be so loud."

I smile when she scowls, enjoying her annoyance. My sister is about to make some smart alec remark, but is interrupted by Paisley waltzing down the stairs.

Her hair is in a messy braid and she wears jean shorts that go a little past her knees and a pink shirt with white jewels at the collar.

She takes a seat beside me right as Dad hands each of us a plate consisting of semi burnt bacon, eggs, and toast.

I scarf down the food quickly and wash out my plate and set it in the sink. When Hallie and Paisley are finished eating, they do the same.

I bolt upstairs, almost tripping on a step, and rush into my bathroom and brush my teeth. Licking my lips, I grab my backpack and stride back downstairs. Paisley and Dad stand by the door ready to go.

"Hallie," I scream. "Hurry up!"

"Why don't you shut up," she snaps as she appears and ambles down the stairs.

"Be nice Hallie. I am in no mood to deal with you right now," Dad demands, his voice filled with annoyance and anger.

"Whatever," Hallie mumbles so quietly that only I can hear.

We pile into the car. I sit in the back with Hallie while Paisley rides in the passenger seat. Dad starts the car and then he quickly drives us to school.

When we arrive, students are scattered everywhere outside, chatting to one another.

I get out of the car, sling my bag over my shoulder, and walk over to the building. The bell rings and I head to my locker. After putting my things in my locker, I head to class.