Everything fades away because I already know there’s only one option left. And not the one my own mother chose.
My baby…that’s my baby. My little bean. All mine.
Aurora:Can you meet me tomorrow morning at the park? I need to tell you something!
Electra:Sure! Is it something serious? You sound off.
Aurora:No, no! It’s not, I just need some advice.
Electra:You know you can come over now?
Aurora:Can’t. Dad’s not feeling great tonight.
Electra:Oh no! I can be there in ten to help?
Aurora:No, don’t worry. I’ve got this.
Electra:Sure?
Aurora:Yes. I’ll see you tomorrow morning?
Electra:I’ll be there.
2
Philosophy of the Storm
Aurora
Thecoldmetalchaindug into my palms and my feet dragged against the beaten track of dirt underneath them as I swayed back and forth on the swing in the now deserted park. I shouldn’t be here either, I was supposed to go over to Joey’s house at five after meeting Electra here, but my friend never came.
Swing.
I knew why.
Swing.
Stella texted me.
Stella:Electra left with Masso this morning. Your audition is on Friday.
I should’ve got up and left when it came, but instead I stayed, swaying back and forth as I watched the families around me while gripping the small, black-and-white picture in my hands.
I couldn’t tear my eyes off the bright, smiling faces and those toothy grins they gave their moms or dads. Or sometimes both at the same time.
I never had anyone to smile at when at the park. My family wasn’t of the hallmark, picture perfect variety.But he will be.The palm of my hand gently pressed against my still-flat stomach and the life inside it, cradling it protectively.
I don’t know when it happened, when I decided that it was a boy, but I just did. And as I watch all those kids today, I feel something shifting inside me.
It feels monumental. It feels larger than life. Larger than any audition I have waiting for me.
So, I ignore the second part of Stella’s message, focusing on the first. Electra left. I always hoped she would, seeing as my best friend is truly the most talented figure skater I’ve ever known. I just always thought I’d be going with her, yet I can’t blame her for fleeing as fast as she could. I’d probably do the same if that door opened up. She’s had her share of crap in this life already and deserves some dessert for once.
I take a deep breath, glancing at the overcast sky.
Make it big, Electra. Make it big for the both of us.I send the silent wish to those skies, hoping it carries to wherever she is now, while letting go of my dream along with it.
Strangely, it’s a lot easier than I thought it would be.
