Three train rides, 2 rides from strangers, two plain rides and a bus ride. With all those rides I had to go through 4 different states. As the bus heads for the famous Golden state bridge... I smile, I'm finally here. San Francisco, it took cold dark nights, tears, prayers and a whole lot of maneuvering just to get here but I'm here. That's all that matters.
I had to make sure that I took the longest route here and I left no traces of myself any where.
Now, I have a new name, in a new city starting my new life. Amaryllis is my new name. Well, it's Greek for new and fresh. that's one of the reasons I choose it. The other reason is so my family and my ex fiance don't find me. Also the reason for the complicated route from Berkeley Springs, West Virginia to San Francisco. As the bus makes it's way to the bus stop, I notice the many different restaurants the city is known for. I'm a huge foodie, so this city really suits me. The food and art will speak to my soul.
All of a sudden, I'm so nervous about so many things, my neighborhood, apartment, my savings, the people. Damn it, I'm just nervous about my whole new life.
The bus comes to a stop, I quickly gather my belongings and make may way to the door. As I reach the door I take a breath in and I take two steps off and my feet hit the ground. I breath out, and give myself a big smile.
Damn it, I'm finally here. Tears that represent joy and victory run down my cheeks... at this point, it's more than just a move to a new city. It's a rebirth.
I quickly take out my phone, to browse for my address. I checked my emails from the agent that helped me secure an apartment. With the agent's help I managed to book an apartment online. The pictures online looked decent and I just hope the place looks exactly like that.
The apartment is two miles away. I make a bold decision to walk there. I mean... I get to save money, burn calories and get a feel of the city.
I'm loving the restaurant scene I see at the moment. I can see myself in many of these restaurants. Some have peaked my interest already but for now let's head home.
I follow the GPS till I reach a yellow five story building. according to the GPS, I have reached my destination I take slow step towards the building. I raise my head and give the building a good looking. hmmmm it looks well maintained. The yellow colour gives it a crisp fresh look. I like it. That's the outside anyways. Let's see if it looks this good on the inside too. Oh Lord please let it be decent and clean, I say a little prayer.
I head for the entrance,
I slowly approach the entrance, as I enter I notice there are two huge plants on each side of the door. There are mail boxes on my right side for the apartments and flights of stairs on my left side.
I roll my eyes as realisation heats me that there is no elevator. Oh great just f*****g amazing. I will have to conquer this great wall of China everyday. I mean it's not that bad and I might get used to it but it will take i while.
I head for my apartment. Third floor, room 27. I notice the electric pad lock that has the key to my apartment hanging on the door handle. I quickly scan the email from the agent, where she send me the code to the lock.
I enter the code, the lock pops open and i take the keys out. I open the door, as I enter I see I short hall way that leads to a open plan kitchen and lounge. The kitchen has a fridge stove and microwave, all are stainless steel. That's definitely a score.
I familiarise myself with the apartment. the lounge area, is big enough for a couch and a small dinning table. I have no complaints over my room. Closet space is decent. I dont have much right now.... overtime that will change for sure.
I take a look at the time and its noon. I just take a nap and think about groceries and cleaning later. Right now, I'm exhausted!!