San Juan Summmer

The five days before I embarked on the greatest vacation ever consisted of this:
Day 5: Nearly killed my Best Friend I was lying on my lounge chair, the sun blinding me. A subtle breeze rustled the nearby trees and I heard Taylor shiver in her chair next to me. Taylor was my best friend; she had been since we met in kindergarten.
“I don’t know about you girly, but I am freezing out here!” Taylor shrieked.  “I’m going to go get some ice cream, do you want any?” She added. I tilted my sunglasses up and saw her staring at me, her hands on her hips. Her strawberry blonde hair was up in a messy ponytail, partially blocking the sun from my face. 
“I thought you said you were cold! Why would you want to go and get ice cream?” I asked her, confusion in my voice, matching the look on my face.  Taylor shrugged and sat down on my chair.
“I dunno. Ice cream just makes everything better. So do you want any or not?” She asked again.
“Sure, get me an Oreo cookie sandwich.” I said and lowered my glasses. Taylor laughed and I raised my eyebrows.
“Those things turn your teeth black!” She replied, still laughing. She laughed so hard she fell backwards onto my lounger, clutching her sides. 
“So! They’re really good!” I replied defensively.
“Alrighty, whatever you say.” Taylor said.  I felt her weight lift from my chair and the sound of her flip flops getting more distant. I could feel the hot sun on my waist, and swore I felt the UV rays soaking into my skin. Sleepily, I closed my eyes. I could just take a short nap, and wake up amazingly tan. Suddenly I felt cold droplets of icy water across my belly. I shrieked and sat up quickly. Brandon was leaning over me, a wide grin on his face.
“You jerk!” I said and slapped his arm playfully. I heard my friend Cassidy laugh a few chairs over and glared at her, although she couldn’t see me.
“Just wanted you to see what being in the pool is like!” He said and sat down on my chair.
“Hey, I’ll get in eventually!” I replied accusingly. Brandon looked hurt.
“Sorry, jeez I didn’t think you’d get so mad.” He said and stood. I grabbed his arm and tipped up my sunglasses.
“I’m not that mad!” I said apologetically. He smiled weakly. I could feel the muscles in his arms and let go awkwardly.
“Will you get in the pool now?” He asked me impatiently.
“Fine.” I muttered. I casually tossed my sunglasses onto my lounge chair, and stripped off my jean shorts. I was wearing a miss-matching pink and blue bikini. I normally hated when girls did that, but I had no choice. I had decent sized boobs, but a small butt. I had to wear miss-matching swimsuits, or else something was too tight or falling out.
My feet squished in the grass as I followed Brandon to the pool, and I got mud between my toes. Brandon ran in front of me, and cannonballed into the pool. Tiny flecks of freezing water hit my arms and legs and I shrieked. Next to me, Cassidy followed with another cannonball, which wasn’t nearly as impressive. Brandon bobbed up for air and wiped water droplets from his eyes. He looked up at me and held out his arms.
“Don’t you dare try and catch me!” I cried. He held up his hands in surrender, and I reeled backward for my jump. I flew towards the pool, sprinting at full speed and did a 360 spin over the water. My feet made contact and water sprayed everywhere. I was absorbed in the chlorine filled water from head to toe. As I surfaced, my brown hair clung to my face. I blinked a lot and rubbed my eyes. Brandon was staring at me, laughing. Cassidy was standing next to him, also laughing. She was obviously staring at Brandon. I felt jealously bubble inside me. I heard my name being called and turned. It was Taylor. She was standing poolside, with an unhappy look on her face.
“The machines out of order.” She pouted as she slipped into the water.
“Bummer.” Cassidy said her voice snotty. With that, she dove underwater and swam towards the lap lanes.
“What a bitch!” Taylor yelled once Cassidy was out of hearing distance.
“Hey! She’s nice!” Brandon said his voice defensive.
“What? Are you guys like friends now?” Taylor asked.
“Yeah. Actually we are Taylor.” He said matter-of-factly. Then he to dove underwater towards Cassidy. Taylor just stood there, bobbing up and down in the water. Her mouth formed into a perfect O.
“What an ass!” She said to me.
“I cannot believe you used to like him!” She added and looked at me. I didn’t respond. I was floating on top of the water, staring at the sky. Her eyes widened.
“You don’t like him again? Do you Bells?” She asked questioningly. I flipped over to look at her.
“I dunno. Maybe.” I replied honestly.
“I think he likes you back! In fact, I’m sure of it! Now you can have a boyfriend and double date with Derrick and me!” She said to cheerfully.  I groaned. Taylor had been dating this guy Derrick for 2 months and she was completely obsessed. I’m surprised she didn’t invite him to the pool with us today. They were together all the time! It was unhealthy.
“Yeah, totally.” I lied.
“I have to go tell Brandon!” She yelled and started to swim towards him. Suddenly I was very alert.
“No!” I yelled and grabbed her ankle. Taylor screeched mid stroke. Her entire body started convulsing and flopping like a dead fish. She tried to swim away but I had a tight hold on her ankle.
“Let….Me…..GO!” She screamed between gulps of water. I realized she was drowning and let her go. She took huge gasps of air and held her hands up in surrender.
“Alright, alright. I won’t tell him.” She said and gasped more. I felt bad, but I really didn’t want her to tell Brandon that I liked him. Cassidy and Brandon swam over instantly, but Cassidy got there first.
“Oh my god Taylor! Are you alright?” She said, fake concern in her voice. Taylor shot a look at me.
“Yeah, I’m just peachy.” She replied sarcastically. Brandon glared at me.
“What did you do?” He yelled.
I started to reply but Taylor interrupted me “Nothing! She didn’t do anything. I’m just not a very good swimmer.” She said quickly. My mouth was gaping. She winked at me and mouthed “You owe me.” I nodded and she smiled.
Day 4: Ate Terrible Ice Cream with Brandon
We were sitting on my overstuffed couches. Brandon was XBOX with my brother, Michael, and I was painting my nails, when the power went out. I screamed. I heard something smash, a yell and the room was filled with light. I realized that I had all the curtains closed. It wasn’t my fault I preferred to live in a cave. Michael wretched them open to reveal Brandon lying on the floor next to a broken lamp. I clapped my hands over my mouth. Brandon groaned.
“Oh my go-“ I started when a cheerful tune came through the now open windows.
“ICE CREAM!” Michael and Brandon yelled simultaneously. Miraculously Brandon was now alright, thanks to the ice cream man. I darted upstairs and grabbed my wallet. Brandon and Michael ripped open the front door and over the steps. But the tune was beginning to fade away and sullen looks appeared on their faces. We all took seats on the curb and breathed heavily. Suddenly Michael jumped up and ran to the garage. Brandon and I followed curiously. Michael soon appeared again, with our bikes in hand. Brandon took a seat on mine, Michael on his own, and I sat on the handlebars. The boys pedaled quickly and I held on for dear life. Finally the tune began to ring again and the large rainbow truck rounded the corner. We sped towards, my knuckles turning white from hanging on so tightly. Brandon stopped abruptly and I nearly fell off the handlebars. The truck stopped and the boys carefully chose their ice cream. After nearly 10 minutes, I was eating my Giant Sandwich and Michael was opening his Batman Push Pop. Brandon still stood, his brow furrowed, mulling over the different choices. The man in the truck was beginning to get annoyed.
“Just pick something!” I yelled at him.
“I can’t decide between Dora or Spiderman.” He said, stroking his imaginary beard.
“Spiderman. Hands down.” I replied.
“No way Bella! Dora is kickass! Get Dora!” Michael yelled.
“I’ll have the Dora pop please.” Brandon said. The man grunted and handed Brandon a Dora Head Pop. Brandon took one lick. His face twisted into a mix of nausea and disappointment.
“This tastes like strawberry banana!” He said.
“What did you think it would taste like?” I asked him as I climbed onto the handle bars again.
“I dunno. Chocolate?” He said.
“I guess that makes sense.” I thought to myself. We took off on the handlebars. I had absolutely no idea where we were going. Suddenly we pulled up to the greenbelt. The bike cut through the tall grass bumpily. When we reached the tree, Brandon stopped. It was a large oak with a black rope swing tied to its largest branch. Michael sat on a limb that out stretched over a small creek. Brandon sat next to him, and I took the swing. We sat in silence, enjoying our ice cream. Finally Brandon broke it.
“This tastes like shit!” He yelled and sucked off Dora’s eyes.
“Mine too.” Michael chimed in.
“I would have to agree.” I added. The chocolate didn’t taste right. It tasted like it had cinnamon in the chocolate. Gross.
“My Dora looks evil!” Brandon screamed.
“What?” I replied, in a trance.
“Look!” He showed her to me. He’d eaten her eyes off, and she looked a crazy devil killer.
“Wow!” I said loudly. Brandon pushed it towards Michael.
“Get that thing away from me! It’s creepy!” He yelled and pushed Dora back to Brandon.
“See I told you!” He yelled. I laughed so hard I fell off the swing. My back got dirt all over it but I didn’t care. I was laughing too much to care. After all, Dora was pretty creepy.
Day 3: Went Sprinkler Running with Taylor
Taylor flopped down and exhaled loudly.
“What?” I asked as I channel surfed.
“We always watch TV! I wanna swim! It’s so hot!” She said and started fanning herself. I glanced at the clock; it was 9:30pm.
“Well sorry to burst your bubble here, but the pool closes at 8.” I said matter-of-factly.
“Sorry to burst your bubble, but our pool totally sucks!” She yelled. Suddenly she sat up completely straight and looked at me, an evil look in her eye.
“Let’s call Derrick! He can let us into the pool at the apartments!” Taylor added. Excitedly she grabbed her phone from her pocket and started to dial. I forgot to mention that Derrick lived in the apartment’s right next to our neighborhood. The only thing that separated him and Taylor was a golf course. I groaned. But I did agree with Taylor, I really wanted to go swimming. We got our stuff together and changed into our swimsuits hurriedly. Taylor was just starting to get out the door, when my dad came downstairs.
“Do you guys need a ride?” He asked, jingling his keys.
“Sure! Thanks daddy!” I said as we climbed into his car. Dad changed the station to classical. We sat there in silence, except for the music. I hated classical music, but not with Dad. It was just his thing. After about 5 minutes of silent driving we pulled in front of Derrick’s apartment.
Taylor was the first one out of the car. I followed.
“Bye Daddy! Thanks for driving us!” I said as I shut the car door. 
“Thanks Mr. Monroe!” Taylor yelled from behind me. My dad drove away. Taylor followed the car with her eyes until it disappeared around the corner. Then she started towards the pool.
“Aren’t we going to Derricks first?” I asked questioningly.
“Oh yeah, about that. He didn’t answer his phone, so we’re going to have to jump the fence.” She said. Anger boiled inside me. Taylor was terrible at planning things. But I didn’t say anything. I just followed her to the pool silently. Arguing with Taylor was completely pointless. She would just freak out and throw things. I’d seen it before.
We got to the pool and Taylor threw her bag at me. I caught it and stumbled back a little. Her bag was really heavy.
“What does she have in here?” I thought to myself. Taylor began to scale the fence surrounding the pool.  She looked up and gasped. Suddenly Taylor leaped off the fence and ran into me. I stumbled again and leaned against the apartment closest to me. 
“What the hell Taylor!” I said.
“Shhh! There’s a bunch of guys up there!” She said putting her finger to her lips and pointing.
“Are they cute?” I said excitedly.
“I dunno! I can’t see.” She said shrugging her shoulders.
“So climb up anyways!” I said and shifted her bag to my other arm.
“Okay.” She said and started to climb up. She was almost up, when she dropped down again.
“What now!” I asked her impatiently. It was breezy, and I was standing outside an apartment complex in my swimsuit.
“What if they’re molesters?” She said quietly. I sighed heavily. Taylor was always worried about us getting molested.
“Fine, let’s leave.” I said. I was tired of the whole experience, and we couldn’t even get into the pool. 
“But I dropped my flip flop!” Taylor protested.
“So pick it up!” I said. I was annoyed with Taylor completely. Taylor fidgeted with her thumbs.
“I dropped it over the fence.” She said and pointed. I saw her Day-Glo orange flip flop in the grass on the other side of the fence. For a split second I pictured her head stuck in the fence. I smiled weakly. Taylor got down on her knees and reached through the bars. Her finger tips were inches from the shoe.
“Bell-“She started, but I was already on my knees. The grass was wet and cold, I shivered. I stretched my arm through the bars.
“You’re so close!” Taylor said. I stretched further until I finally gripped the foam. I pulled the shoe through the bars and gave it back to Taylor.
“Yay! I love you Bella!” She said excitedly and slipped on her flip-flop.
“You’re welcome. Let’s just go home.” I said and started towards the street. Taylor pouted but reluctantly followed. We walked along the roadside, the streetlights lighting our path. Anger was boiling inside me. I was going to get revenge.
My revenge came sooner than I thought. I saw the sprinklers before Taylor did.
“Let’s cut through here.” I said. I wasn’t lying; it was a shortcut to my neighborhood. But I just wanted to go through the sprinklers.
“Okay.” Taylor said cheerfully, too cheerfully. I climbed over the fence easily, and heard Taylor struggling behind me. I waited for her patiently. Finally she was by my side again and we started to walk, when she screamed.
“I just got wet!” She yelled. I stifled a laugh. And then I felt it too, cold droplets of water showering me. I screamed.
“It smells like shit over here.” Taylor said loudly, as she ran through the sprinklers.
“I have to agree. I think there’s like a sewage pipe over here.” I said, running after her.
“I bet we’re stepping in raw sewage right now!” She screamed dramatically. I knew she was being overdramatic, but I ran a little faster anyways. Taylor screamed again, and I openly laughed. She didn’t notice. After getting hit by 4 sprinklers we finally reached the sidewalk. Taylor had mascara running down her face and tears in her eyes. Gingerly, she touched a hand to her face.
“Oh my god! I look like shit!” She yelled a little too loudly for almost 11 at night. I grinned evilly. My revenge had been a success. After all, Taylor did deserve runny mascara after she had planned so badly and been so annoying.
Day 2: Did More Summersaults than Cassidy
For Brandon’s birthday he was renting out the whole pool so we could all go night swimming. He invited all his friends from his swim team, and I didn’t know anyone, so he let me invite Taylor.
2 hours before the party Taylor invited me out to dinner with her mom and her mom’s new boyfriend, followed by a sleepover. I accepted reluctantly. I didn’t like Taylor’s mom, and neither did Taylor. So I just went anyway. We drove around for a while, trying to pick places to eat, until we finally settled for Old Chicago. Taylor’s mom kept parking crooked, so it took us like 10 minutes to get into the restaurant. The restaurant was overly air conditioned and smelled like booze. We sat in a booth that was made for at least 6 people, and we only had 4. The waitress was overly perky. I really hate that, overly happy people at restaurants. You could say “My drink tastes like someone washed there feet in it.” And they would just reply “Well I’ll just get you another one!” With that goofy smile.
Taylor and I got Buffalo wings and I think her mom got a calzone or something. I didn’t know what her boyfriend got though; I was too busy texting Brandon. Then Cassidy texted me.
“What should I get Brandon?” Cassidy texted.
“I don’t know!” I replied angrily. Cassidy was really starting to get on my nerves. Although, I’d managed to not think about her for a few days, yet here she was again.
“What did you get him?” She texted. I was not going to let her get him the same gift as me!
“Just a gift card.” I replied. It was true, but it was a pretty kickass gift card!
“Oh alright. Thanks Bella!” She said. I didn’t text her back.
When the food finally arrived, Taylor and I only had 3 wings each. Brandon was having food catered in, so I wanted to make sure I ate something, but didn’t look like a pig at the party. Taylor and I finished eating at the same time. We just sat. We didn’t really talk. Mostly just her mom and her boyfriend talked a lot. I checked my phone. The party was starting in 30 minutes. I elbowed Taylor and eyed her phone. She checked it, and I saw her eyes widen.
“Mommy, the party is starting in 30 minutes. Can we go?” She asked politely.
“Yeah, in like 15 minutes. I’ll drop you off on the way home.” Her mom said matter-of-factly.
“But we don’t have our stuff.” Taylor said snottily.
“Well why didn’t you bring it?” Her mom asked angrily.
“Who brings their swimsuit and birthday presents to a restaurant?” Taylor said angrily, her voice getting louder with every sentence. I sunk down lower in my seat. I hated to be the cause of them fighting. Although I did agree with Taylor, who brought their swimsuit to a restaurant just because they were going to a party afterwards?
Nearly 15 minutes later, Taylor and I were walking to the car. She was taking long stomping strides, while I was balancing our 3 to-go boxes. We finally got in the car, and rode home in silence.
Once we got back to Taylor’s house, we grabbed all our stuff madly. I slipped my bottoms on. Then I grabbed my gift for Brandon and hurriedly tied my bikini around my back. Lastly I slipped my pink shirt over it all and ran back to the car. Taylor was right behind me. Her mom peeled out of the driveway right as I shut the car door. After a few minutes of driving we turned into a strange neighborhood and drove around forever. Finally we realized we were lost but it didn’t matter, the party had started 10 minutes ago anyways.
“Oh my god! I just remembered where it is!” Taylor’s Mom saidand turned into another neighborhood. After a few turns we arrived at the pool. I remembered being at this pool before. It was fuzzy memory, but it was definitely there. When we came in, everyone was in the Cabana. Brandon was soaking wet, and gave me a huge bear hug. He soaked me through to my shirt.
“Brandon you’re getting me wet!” I yelled and slapped his arm playfully. He pulled away and looked at me, with his piercing blue eyes.
“That was the point.” He said, smiling. I couldn’t help it, I got a little flustered. Taylor snapped at me, and Brandon released his grasp. We picked out lounge chairs and laid out our matching towels. The towels were from Toy Story. Taylor began shedding her shirt and cutoff shorts. I did the same. She swan dived into the pool, while I stuck with my classic 360 jump. I was enveloped with chlorine filled water. Right as I surfaced, I heard Cassidy’s high pitched cry.
“Bella!” Cassidy cried as she swam over towards us. Taylor groaned. I shot her a “be nice” look. Cassidy reached us incredibly fast and did a “check out my chest” move. And the guys from Brandon’s swim team did. Just one smile and they would be hers. That was just the way Cassidy Jones worked.
“Hey Bella! What took you so long?” She said. Taylor rolled her eyes and gasped.
“THEY HAVE A WATERSLIDE!” Taylor yelled, completely ignoring Cassidy’s question. Taylor swam to the edge quickly and hoisted herself out. She whipped around and looked at me, her eyebrows raised.
“Are you coming?” She said her hands on her hips. I glanced at Cassidy.
“You wanna come?” I asked thoughtfully. I knew Taylor wouldn’t want her to come, but I asked anyways. Cassidy fidgeted with her thumbs.
“Uh, No thanks. I’ll just watch from here.” She said nervously. I felt like I should press further, but just hoisted myself out of the water. Taylor was still standing there, hands on her hips, an annoyed expression sewn onto her face.
“Let’s go.” She said and started towards the slide. I followed, wrapping my arms around myself for warmth. We climbed about 50 stairs to the top. The slide started with a tunnel, opened up, and was followed by a series of curves, before dumping you into the 10 foot waters below. The lifeguard okayed Taylor and she plummeted into the tunnel. I heard her shriek loudly and looked over the railing. I saw Taylor’s small frame, whipping around the corners, and laughed. She was dumped into the water and the lifeguard looked at me. He had dirty blonde hair and sunglasses. He waved his fingers and I thrust myself into the slide. It was very dark, and only the sound of rushing water filled my ears. In my head I pictured a murderer behind me and whipped around instantly. The tunnel was over and I could now see, somewhat. I didn’t find the murderer; instead I had flipped around onto my belly from turning around so quickly. The water was pushing me around the corners faster than I would’ve liked, as I struggled to turn onto my backside. Right as I was able to flip around, the slide deposited me into the pool. I sank down into the water. I kicked my legs profusely, and flailed my arms in the same fashion. Finally I surfaced, gasping, I swam to the ladder and climbed up. Taylor stood there, shaking.
“Let’s go down again!” Taylor said excitedly. I sighed, and agreed. We climbed up the stairs once again, and the lifeguard okayed Taylor to head down the slide. I tapped my foot impatiently while waiting for Taylor to get off. I looked over the railing into the pool below, and saw Cassidy bobbing in the water below. She was swimming alone. I felt a twinge of guilt inside me. I was so busy looking at Cassidy, that I didn’t hear the lifeguard okay me. The kid behind me pushed me slightly in frustration. I broke from my trance and fell onto the slide. My ride down started shaky, but was filled with the same twists and curves. The slide deposited me into the water, but I didn’t go under. I swam to the ladder and climbed out. Taylor was already swimming in the pool with Cassidy. I walked over and slipped into the water. “
“Hey Bella, want to practice our underwater summersaults?” Cassidy asked happily.
“Sure!” I replied and took my position. I could do one forwards and one backwards summersault. Cassidy dove underwater and began to flip. She did 4 underwater forward summersaults. Envy burned inside me. When she popped up for air, I began my flip. I turned around in a complete 360 and started my second. I started it, but then found myself flipping on my side, madly searching for air. I popped above the water, and gasped.
“Wow. That was a train wreck!” Taylor said, laughing. I glared at her. I looked at Cassidy, who was also laughing.
“Let me try one backwards!” I said, determined to earn back some of my pride. I planted my feet firmly on the bottom of the pool. I kicked off the bottom, turning in a perfect 360. One. I began kicking my legs and continued to spin. Two. Three, and then I began to flip sideways like before. I popped up for air, gasping and sputtering. Taylor’s and Cassidy’s mouths were in perfect O’s. Taylor started to speak, but Cassidy beat her to it.
“Oh my God! You just did 3 backwards summersaults!” She exclaimed. I beamed. I was quite proud of beating Cassidy in summersaults, no matter how dizzy it made me. Afterwards Brandon blew out the candles, we all sang, he opened presents. He loved the ITunes card I gave him, and the 10$ from Cassidy. It started to rain, so we all went home an hour early. It was a good day.











Day 1: Packed
I sat on Taylor’s front step, waiting for my dad to pick me up. Taylor sat next to me, rocking back and forth. My duffel bag was leaning against my knee. Taylor yawned next to me.
~
We were up until nearly 2am last night watching a scary movie, and slept until 11:30 this morning, when I discovered an unread text from my Dad. He said he was going to be at Taylor’s in 30 minutes. I leapt out of bed and hurriedly got dressed. I threw everything into my bag, and choked down a bowl of Reese’s puffs. I ran outside, pulling on my right shoe, to find Taylor’s driveway to be empty. Usually my father was so prompt, never a moment late. But today, when I was actually ready on time, he was nowhere to be found. Taylor burst out the door, her brush in her hand.
“Where is your Dad?” She exclaimed.
“I have no idea.” I said, and sat down on her porch.
~
That was when my Dad pulled in. He turned his black ford into Taylor’s driveway, classical music pouring out of the windows. I stood and started toward his car, when Taylor caught my arm. I turned, and she pulled me into her arms. She was warm, and although her boobs were crushing mine, the hug was still nice.
“I’m going to miss you girly.” She whispered into my hair.
“I’m going to miss you too. You’re still coming to see me on the fourth right?” I asked hopefully.
“Definitely.” She replied as she pulled away. I smiled and felt my dad’s hand on my shoulder.
“We have to go, your mothers making breakfast for you.” He said, and grabbed my duffel bag. I followed him to the car, and opened the door. Slowly, I grabbed my seatbelt and looked up at Taylor. She was still standing where I’d left her. As my dad pulled out of the driveway, Taylor began to wave slowly, and I waved back. Dad rolled down his window and hollered to Taylor.
“Goodbye Taylor!” He said as he waved.
“Goodbye Mr. Monroe!” Taylor replied as she continued to wave. We locked eyes until my Dad’s truck rounded the corner. I rested my gaze on the street, as we continued to drive down the road.
“Are you excited for your trip?” Dad asked me, as we turned onto a main road.
“Yes, but I’m sad you aren’t coming.” I said as I fidgeted with my thumbs. Dad smiled.
“You’ll be fine. Besides we’re coming to see you in July.” Dad said as we screeched to a stop.
“That’ll be nice.” I lied. One of the main reasons I’d wanted to go on this trip was to escape my family for the summer.
“Will you miss your friends?” Dad said. The light shifted to green and we turned again.
“Of course.” I said. We drove for a while in silence, absorbed by Dad’s classical music.
“You’ll see them over the fourth right?” Dad said, finally breaking it.
“Yes.” I said and we turned onto our street. Finally we pulled into our driveway.
“The Irises are blooming.” I said as I unbuckled my seatbelt. Dad smiled as he opened his door.
“Yeah.” He said and grabbed my duffel bag from the back seat. I opened my door, and went into the garage. I tiptoed up the steps and clicked open the door. The aroma of grilled potatoes and French toast filled my nostrils. I rounded the corner to see my mother bent over the stove, prodding the potatoes carefully. She turned to look at me and smiled. My mother crossed the space between us and embraced me.
“I made your favorite foods.” She said and rubbed my hair.
“Thanks.” I said. I heard my Dad come in behind me with my duffel bag and Mom went back to the potatoes. I turned around to pick up my bag, and went upstairs. My suitcase sat on my desk half filled with shirts and shampoos. “I probably should pack more.” I thought to myself, but instead I tossed my duffel onto the floor and flopped down onto my bed. I didn’t remember falling asleep, but I awoke when my mother opened my door. The door had always creaked when you opened it, and it woke me up often. She rounded the corner holding a plate piled high with toast and potatoes. I sat up groggily, and smiled at her. She handed the plate to me, along with a fork and sat down on the edge of my bed. I began to eat hurriedly; all I’d had today was the cereal.
“So what are you going to do today?” Mom asked me as her fingers traced the patterns on my bedspread.
“I don’t know.” I said, as I shoveled more toast into my mouth.
“You could hang out with Taylor.” My mom suggested.
“I just got home from her house.” I said matter-of-factly.
“Or you could see Brandon.” My mom suggested happily.
“I saw him last night.” I said, and swallowed more potatoes. My mother held her hands up in surrender.
“Why don’t you just stay home and spend the day with your family. Are you even finished packing yet?” My mother said as she put her hands on her hips. I glanced over at my suitcase, and my mom followed my gaze. She sighed heavily.
“You are just like your father, not packing until 20 minutes before we leave for the airport, while as Michael and I would be packed a week before we even bought the plane tickets.” My mother said as she stood from my bed. I smiled and grabbed my mother’s hand.
“I’m going to miss you while I’m gone.” I said, rubbing my thumb along her knuckles. My mother smiled.
“I’m going to miss you to.” My mom said. She dropped my hand and started towards the door.
“And I want you to finish packing that.” She said pointing at my suitcase, with that she closed my door loudly. I finished eating my potatoes and toast quickly and opened my bureau. I hastily folded and put my clothes into my suitcase.

I spent the rest of the day packing my things, and doing chores. Chores mostly consisted of making my bed and vacuuming my room and such. After countless hours of mind numbing chores my mother called me downstairs for dinner. I came downstairs to find plates of olive oil pasta decorating our table. My mother was pouring me a glass of raspberry lemonade, when I turned the corner into the kitchen. My dad pulled out his chair, and we ate in silence. Only the sounds of chewing and clattering silverware filled the air. The real excitement came that night.
After dinner we had ice cream and watched a terrible movie my mother had read about online. I showered and dressed in my old sweats and oversized T-Shirt. I slipped into my bed and clicked off my lamp without bothering to brush my hair or teeth. Boy how much I would regret that. My eyes were just beginning to close when I heard a bang. A strong breeze blew into my room and I sat up promptly. I was convinced that this was going to be the last minute of my life. A figure in a dark blue hoodie summersaulted into my room, nearly crashing into my nightstand. The invader stood shakily and groaned. I switched on my lamp, and finally got a good look into the strangers face. It was Brandon.
“Brandon!” I half laughed half screamed.
“Why do you sound so surprised?” He said and lifted his hood.
“Are you alright?” I said as I swung my legs out of bed. I crossed my room and shut, then bolted my window closed.
“Yeah I’m fine. That just went a lot smoother in my head.” He said, putting his hand to his temple.
“Do you want some ice?” I said, gingerly touching his temple.
“Nah, I’m really fine.” He said as he sank down onto my bed.
“Alright.” I said, sitting next to him. For a minute I thought we were just going to sit there, when Brandon grabbed my hand suddenly. It was highly unexpected, but I didn’t let go. He twisted around to look at me, and I couldn’t help but look into his eyes. They were icy blue, and deeper than the ocean. Brandon pulled me into his arms. I rested my head on his shoulder and let him wrap his arms around the small of my back. For a moment we just stood there, and held each other.
“I don’t want you to leave.” He whispered into my ear.
“I know.” I said, guilt pooling in the bottom of my stomach.
“I’m going to miss you so much.” He said softly. I could feel his breath on my ear, and I got butterflies.
“I’m going to miss you too Brandon.” I whispered into his neck.
“Please don’t go.” He said into my hair.
I pulled away from him and took a few steps back.
“Excuse me?” I asked him, my hands on my hips.
“I don’t want you to leave.” He said loudly, tucking his hands into his pockets.
“It’s too late for that now! I leave tomorrow.” I said angrily.
“It’s not too late.” Brandon said as he took a step towards me.
“You could just runaway with me.” He added quietly as he stepped towards me once more.
“You know that’s crazy Brandon. I mean, we’re so young. We’re about to start high school” I said, looking at my feet.
“But it’s not. I love you Bella.” He said, and took the final step between us.
“I-“ I started, when Brandon wrapped his arms around me once more. His hand touched the small of my back through my shirt, and I jumped. Our faces were inches apart, our noses nearly touching. Then he kissed me. His lips were soft, moist, and perfect. They enveloped mine perfectly, and I kissed him back. In that moment, Brandon and I became one person. I melted into him, and felt him pull me closer to him. His arms were strong and I felt safe inside them. And then he pulled away. I opened my eyes to look into his. He was smiling and I did too. I couldn’t help but smile around him.
“Brand-“ I started, but Brandon put his finger to my lips. Softly he shushed me, and kissed me once more. This time was more aggressive. Brandon kissed me like I was a drug he couldn’t live without, like his love for me burned inside him like a raging bonfire. I kissed him back once more, I couldn’t help myself. Brandon and I had never been more than friends, and certainly not friends like this. I’d never pictured him and I together like this. The worst part was I liked it.
I pulled away first and laughed softly. His hands reached up to my face and he rubbed his rugged fingers along my cheekbones. I put my hand on top of his and looked into his eyes.
“I’m tired.” I said. Brandon yawned.
“Me too.” Brandon confessed.
“I have a long flight tomorrow. I need to rest.” I said softly.
“Then you should probably go to sleep.” He whispered into my neck. His breath smelled like cinnamon.
“Probably.” I admitted. Brandon started towards the window, but I caught his arm. Slowly he turned towards me.
“But I don’t want you to leave.” I said. I grasped his hand and pulled him towards my bed. I lay down on the mattress and pulled the blankets over me. Brandon sank down onto the bed and lay down next to me. He draped his arm around me and nuzzled his chin into my neck. I clicked off my lamp and fell asleep in that same position.


Day 0: Left for Washington
When I awoke Brandon still lay next to me, his arm around my waist. I turned my head towards his to find him to still be asleep. Gingerly I lifted his arm off me and started to swing my legs out of bed, when I heard Brandon groan and stretch.
“Good morning.” He said groggily and stretched.
“Good morning.” I said and smiled. Brandon leaned towards me and kissed me softly and quickly. His lips were chapped, but I liked it anyways. After I pulled away, I heard my mother softly padding down the hallway and was suddenly very alert.
“You have to get out of here!” I whispered softly.
“Why?” He said loudly, concern on his face.
“Hush! If my mother sees you in here what is she going to think?” I whispered. That seemed to get Brandon’s attention.
“Well how am I going to get out of here?” Brandon whispered to me.
“The same way you came in last night!” I said and pointed towards the window. Brandon jumped out my bed and I followed him to the window. I undid the bolt and swung the window open. The roof stretched out in front of us. Brandon started out the window, but I caught his arm. I pulled him to me and kissed him. My lips enveloped his, quickly and passionately, full of romance and heat. He pulled away first and I embraced him. I ran my hand through his hair and whispered into his ear.
“Bye Brandon.” I whispered. As I did a single tear fell down my face. He looked at me and wiped it away with his thumb.
“Goodbye Bella.” He said as he released me and climbed onto my roof. I watched him walk across to the other side of my house and climb down the ladder leaning against it. I missed him and Taylor already and I hadn’t even boarded the plane yet. I brushed out my hair and wiped glitter on my eyes. I pulled on a clean bra and gray sundress. Lastly I pulled on a pair of silver strappy to finish it all off. I piled a few extra things into my suitcase and pulled it into the hallway. My mother came walking into the hallway right as I did.
“Morning sweetheart.” She said as she ruffled my hair.
“Morning Mom.” I said as I began to pull my suitcase down the stairs. My purple patterned suitcase clattered down the stairs behind me loudly. When I reached the level between the stair sets, Michael opened his door. He looked down at my angrily over the banister.
“Could you be any louder?” He yelled angrily.
“You mean like this!” I said up to him loudly. On the next set of stairs I banged my suitcase extra loudly. Once I reached the bottom I yelled up to Michael again.
“Was that loud enough for you!” I yelled up to him. Michael glared at me in response and slammed his bedroom door. That was my brother, so loving. On the day I was leaving for the entire rest of the summer, all he had the courtesy to say to me was “Could you be any louder.”
When I came around the corner into the kitchen, I saw a blue package sitting on the table. It was square and tied carefully with a green bow. A white envelope was sitting next to the box, with Bella written on it in my mother’s messy cursive. I crossed the room to the table and picked up the envelope. Carefully I tore a line on the top of the envelope and pulled out its contents. It was a purple card with gold cursive writing. On the top line it read Goodbye.
I hope you enjoy your time in San Juan with Rosie, we will all miss you dearly, even Michael! I cannot wait until we can come see you! I love you! Have a great time in San Juan!
Love, Mom.
P.S. Here’s a gift so you can record all your fun times!
My eyes widened at the last line of the card. I tore through the ribbon on the gift and through the paper. I cut through the cardboard box and tore out multiple pieces of tissue paper and there it was. The video camera sat, cradled in Styrofoam in the center of the box. I tried my hardest not to scream. I’d been wishing for a video camera since Christmas! I pulled it out of the box and stared into the lens. I slipped the camera into my carry-on bag, and thanked my mother silently. I’d thank her later. Dad came downstairs, jingling his keys in his hands.
“Ready to go?” Dad asked me.
“Yeah.” I said and handed him my carry-on bag. He took and started towards the garage door. But then he stopped and looked at me.
“You should probably go say Goodbye to Michael and your mother.” He said and opened the garage door.
“Yeah I will.” I said, and ran up the stairs. I went straight into Michael’s room, without knocking. He had his headphones on, and was sitting on his bed, his head bobbing ever so slightly to his music. I leaned against the door frame and waved. He waved back and closed his eyes, leaning his head on his pillow. I strode across his room quietly, lay down on his bed and wrapped my arms around him. He jumped at first, and then he just let me lean into him. I rested my head on his shoulder, and he just hugged me. I pulled away first, if I didn’t I wasn’t sure I’d be able to leave.
“Bye Michael.” I said, smiling, and getting off his bed.
“Bye Bella.” He said.
“I love you.” I said as I reached the door.
“Love you too.” He said, just as I was pulling his door closed. I wiped a tear from my eye, and proceeded to my Mothers room. She was lying down on her bed, reading.
“I got your card.” I said. Mom lowered her book, and smiled at me.
“Good, did you like your camera?” She said happily.
“Yes.” I said, stepping towards her. I picked up her hand and rubbed my thumb on her knuckles. 
“I’m so glad you liked it!” My mom said excitedly.
“Well Dad’s already in the car, so I’d better go.” I said, dropping her hand.
“Yeah, probably. Have fun.” My mom said as I started towards the door.
“I will. Love you mom.” I said as I walked down the stairs. I didn’t hear her response, but I figured she’d said “Love you to.”
I went down the stairs and picked up my suitcase. I dragged it behind me, down the stairs and into the garage. Just as I’d said, Dad was already in the car, drumming his fingers on the wheel. The trunk clicked as I opened it and heaved my suitcase in. I slammed the trunk closed and climbed into the passenger seat. Dad flipped onto the radio and tuned it to my favorite station. I smiled, he knew me so well. The next hour of my life was hectic (as always).
Mostly I spent the time in the security line, along with checking my bag, and on the Tram to gate C-7.
“Alright, this is the part where you and I have to say goodbye.” My dad said laughing. I smiled, my dad knew just how to lift a mood
“Yeah I think so.” I said, tears welling in my eyes. I crossed the space between my father and I, and embraced him tightly. At first my dad seemed somewhat startled, but then I felt his large hand rubbing my back. We stood there for a few minutes, neither of us wanting to let go.
and I continued on to the terminal alone. I had to stand in line next to a large lady who smelled like hamburgers, which was terrible, as we waited to board the plane.
My seat was in the 3rd to last row of the plane. I squeezed through the aisle, counting the numbers on the seats. Finally I reached seat A27. I sat down next to the window, smashed my carry on under the seat in front of me and sank back into my chair. I grabbed my IPod and set it to the “Plane Playlist” I had been working on for over a month and lay back on my chair. I closed my eyes and let myself relax.
I didn’t remember falling asleep, but I awoke when the intercom came on. 
“Ladies and gentlemen we will be landing in Seattle in 20 minutes.” The pilot announced officially. I smiled and felt butterflies in my stomach.  My music was still playing so I grabbed my IPod and turned it off. I lay back in my chair and closed my eyes again, but I was too excited to sleep. 
I woke up smiling, the sound of the drink cart pulling me from my dream.
“Good dream?” I heard a voice say from nowhere. I gasped and opened my eyes wide, my palm on my heart. The laughter that followed informed me the stranger was male. I looked to my right and found myself staring into the eyes of a young boy. He was probably about 15, with gorgeous green eyes, and short cut blonde hair. “Did I scare you?” He said softly.
“Yeah, just a little bit.” I admitted and laughed softly. The boy looked me up and down awkwardly.
“Wow.” He breathed, his eyes goggling at me.
“What?” I said loudly and yawned. “Is there something on my face?” I said reflexively, and touched my hand to my cheek. He grasped my hand and slowly lowered it from my face.
“No, you’re just really pretty.” He breathed. His breath smelled like mint and I dropped his hand awkwardly, completely uncomfortable with the conversation. I blushed deeply, and looked back toward the window. The boy yawned and stretched loudly. “Your boyfriend is really lucky.” He added sleepily. I turned back to him, my eyebrows raised.
“Wow.” I said and rested my chin on my elbow. The boy looked at me and raised his eyebrows.
“What” He said honestly.
“That line was just really cheesy.” I said and laughed. The boy looked hurt and fidgeted with his thumbs absentmindedly. “But, it worked. I don’t have a boyfriend.” I added, trying my hardest to be as cute and flirty as possible. The boy smiled at me, revealing all his white, straight teeth.
“Really? Are you joking?” He said, genuine surprise in his voice.
“Nope. I am completely alone, completely single. That is the 100% truth.” I said and flipped my hair over my shoulder.
“Wow, that’s a shocker.” He said honestly. I turned away from his gaze and looked out the window. In the distance I could see Mt. Rainier, a sure fire sign we were close to Seattle. The butterflies returned to my stomach, and I grinned broadly.
“Are you excited?” The boy asked me, trying to break the silence. I turned back to him, confusion sewn onto my face.
“What’s your name?” I asked, completely ignoring his question.
“Cameron.” He replied smoothly. “What’s yours?” He replied and looked into my eyes. I got a little flustered, I had to admit.
“Isabelle, I mean…uh…Bella.” I said, stumbling over my words. Something about Cameron made me nervous and awkward. Cameron laughed.
“Did you forget it?” He said, still laughing. I blushed.
“No! So where are you headed?” I said quickly, attempting to change the subject. I didn’t want Cameron to think I was stupid because I messed up my own name.