1. Intro to Ashwood
ADDISON'S POV
I always feel there's something missing in my life, like a puzzle missing a piece. I try to shake off the feeling. My thoughts swirl around me like a vortex, making it hard to focus.
The shrill ring of my alarm clock pierces the air, making me wince. I reach over to silence it, the cool metal of the clock a stark contrast to the warmth of my bed. The soft, fluffy sheets envelop me, making it hard to leave the comfort of my bed.
Just as I'm about to drift back to sleep, my mom's cheerful voice cuts through my thoughts. "Good morning, sweetie!"
I roll onto my back, rubbing the sleep from my eyes. "Morning, Mom," I reply, trying to sound more awake than I feel. A faint smile spreads across my face as I gaze up at her.
My mom walks over to my bed, her perfume wafting through the air, a familiar scent that brings me comfort. She kisses my forehead, and I feel a surge of affection for her.
"Have a great day, okay?" she says, smiling.
I nod, trying to return her smile. But as she turns to leave, I catch myself rolling my eyes. My mom can be a bit too cheesy sometimes.
"Mom, I can get ready myself," I say, trying to sound more independent.
"I know, sweetie, but I want to make sure you're okay. Now, get changed, and I'll drop you off at school on my way to work."
I nod, watching as my mom leaves the room. Her footsteps echo down the hallway, leaving me to my thoughts.
I feel a flutter of anxiety in my chest. What if I don't make any friends? What if I get lost in the school?
I take a deep breath, trying to shake off the worries. I focus on getting ready, pushing aside the anxiety.
As I step into the bathroom, the cool tile floor sends a shiver up my spine. I splash water on my face, the cool liquid shocking me awake. I take a fresh bath with warm water, feeling the tension melt away.
As I wrap myself in a towel, I'm about to head out of the bathroom when my feet fly out from under me. I land on my bottom, my left leg twisting under me at an awkward angle. A sharp pain shoots through my ankle, making me cry out.
"Ow!" I exclaim, clutching my ankle.
I take a few deep breaths, trying to shake off the pain. I remind myself that I need to get moving – it's my first day of school, after all. I slowly stand up, testing my ankle. It hurts, but I can walk.
I head to my walk-in closet, scanning the rows of clothes for the perfect outfit. I settle on a long-sleeved black crop top and blue cargo jeans, pairing them with white Nike sports shoes. I run my fingers through my raven-black and snow-white hair, feeling a sense of pride and ownership.
My hair is pretty weird, but I love it. And also my eyes, one is blue and the other is red, and it's also kinda pretty weird. So I were contact lenses which are colour blue. My mom says it's a genetic quirk.
I sling my tote bag over my shoulder, the bag's faded letters reading "Addi" – short for Addison Cierela. I also carry my luggage or suitcase, one big one that's colour pink and my name is on it.
I walk out of my room with my luggage, the soft carpet beneath my feet giving way to the cool hardwood floor of the dining area. I take a seat at the table, running my fingers over the familiar wood grain.
How did I end up in Ashwood, anyway? I wonder, my mind drifting back to the events that led me to this small town. It's a long story, one that I'm not even sure I fully understand myself._l
My thoughts begin to swirl, but before I can get lost in the memories, my mom interrupts me.
"Addison, sweetie, eat your breakfast, " she says, setting a steaming bowl of oatmeal in front of me. "It's the last one you'll have since your going to the hostel in high school" Mom looks sad.
I frown, feeling a surge of sadness towards my mom. She always knows how to bring me back to the present moment. I hug her.
"Thanks, Mom," I say, digging into the oatmeal. The warm, comforting smell fills my senses, and for a moment, I forget about the anxiety and uncertainty that's been plaguing me.
But as I take another bite, I catch myself wondering... what will this new school year bring? Will I finally find the answers I've been searching for?
And what about love? I ask myself, a flutter in my chest. Will I find someone special, someone who truly understands me? Or will I continue to feel like there's something missing in my life? I don't wanna be like XO, kitty but maybe true love is actually what I'm missing in my life or something else. But I'll wait to find out.
Right now, I'm late for school and my mom is taking me to school, and so I have to continue in the next chapter, byeeee.