Us

Prologue

*stormy night in January*

Liam had just been put to bed and I was finally getting some alone time. I had been watching him all day while our parents were out celebrating their wedding anniversary. I check my watch and realize it’s almost time for The Bachelor. I know, I know, but I enjoy the drama, it's a nice escape from my usual hectic life. I’m a sophomore at Columbia University, studying pre-law, and I’m back in Philadelphia for winter break working at the local book store. I have a full ride, but just going out to eat in New York is an entire paycheck.

Just as I’m getting settled on the couch I hear the doorbell ring, ugh, I go to the door completely unaware that I am about to receive the worst news of my life.

“Hi, are you Ms. James,” says a police officer who looks like he’s been working too many night shifts and eating too many donuts.

“Yes, this is she,” I responded, suddenly becoming very worried. Why are the police here? What’s going on?

“I’m very sorry, but your parents have been in an accident and,”

Suddenly I can’t hear them. All I hear is the sound of my own heart thumping faster and faster in my chest, it doesn’t matter, I know what they are saying. My parents are gone. What am I going to do?