- 2.
I spent three days by myself at the beach.
I’d always wanted to see the ocean. When I
got my college acceptance, my parents asked.
me what I wanted as a reward. I immediately
said I wanted them to take me to the beach.
They hesitated.
Ashley isn’t a big fan of long trips.
After some begging, my parents finally caved.
I imagined us taking pictures on the beach
and writing our names in the sand.
I even dreamed we’d light fireworks.
But the dream I had didn’t come true. It was
just me and the ocean.
Three days later, the hotel bill was due.
My parents must have gotten a reminder. I’m
assuming they finally realized they had a
daughter.
My mom sent me a text: “Having fun? Stay
longer if you want. I’ll send you money.”
A notification from my bank popped up.
I stared at the new $5,000 balance and slowly
typed back: “The beach is great. I’m good,
though. I’m heading home today.”
She replied instantly: “Stay a bit longer.
Ashley’s been down since that comment you
made…”
“She doesn’t want to see you right now.”
Those simple words pierced me.
I didn’t think anything could be worse than
waking up to find my parents gone.
I was wrong.
く
I checked out, made a plan, and went to a
bunch of places.
After a week, Ashley was finally okay. My
parents finally let me come home.
My dad texted: “Ashley has forgiven you. Try
not to upset her when you get back.”
I was already in the middle of nowhere,
staring at the forest. I suddenly felt free.
I wasn’t mad, and I didn’t argue. I texted back:
“I’ll come back later. Don’t want to hurt her
delicate feelings.”
