eden

*description*

Ashleigh is tired. She's not quite sure where she fits, back in her hometown for summer. Too young to turn down the fun, and old to pretend that this isn't the best it gets. There's too many things wrapped up in this place, but she likes it that way, it's comfortable. It doesn't last forever, though, and she finds herself thrown into harsh realities. Things fall apart. There's war. Ashleigh still doesn't know where she fits, but it matters less. Survival matters more.

*excerpt*

"Ashleigh, we need to leave." He looks me dead in the eyes.

I pull away, starting to panic. Maybe they already left? Maybe they got a ride from a neighbor? Why was everything still here? My eyes dart around the house, looking for an answer.

Daniel grabs my face, pulling it close to his. His eyes look glassy.

"Stop looking around." He says. He blinks. A single tear rolls down his cheek.

I listen. I close my eyes and follow him out. We run back to the car. My heart thumps in my ears. I try not to think about it, but I can't stop the thoughts racing in. Why was their carpet so red? I start to reverse, and I stall. I can feel the tears brewing in my eyes. I start the car again. I stall. I slam the steering wheel. Daniel grabs my shoulder. This time I let off the clutch slow. I gas it, hard, to the freeway.