Sleepless Nights
Lying awake every night,
Memories start flooding back.
Wondering about the past,
Worrying about the future,
Losing grip of the present.
Every night the same nightmares,
Tossing and turning for hours,
Trying to switch off these thoughts.
Life as made overthinkers,
And insomniacs of us all.
Life goes on,
Never stopping for anyone.
Once in a while,
You can’t help but wonder,
If things hadn’t changed.
A deep-seated need to reconnect,
An emotion you cannot comprehend.
You can only wish for another chance,
Make things right but you can’t.
This is a part of the journey,
Even if you don’t like it.
One day at a time,
Such a novel notion.
It seems so simple,
But it never is.
How can you not worry?
How can you not think?
Future. Past. Present.
All thoughts at once.
How to stop? How to let go?
One day at a time,
Easier said than done.
Your 20’s can be a weird period of time. If you have been a dreamer and idealist all your life, this particular time of your life has a special kind of bittersweet effect on you. Till your 20’s, life has been dreamy, filled with rainbows and sunshine; suddenly it all disappears and reality sets in. Our illusion of reality, our bubble in which we lived, bursts and it can be frustrating to navigate through all of this at once.
There are some things you can do in your 20’s to make your life better. I know it’s not as easy as it sounds but it’s something which will be helpful to make peace with the changes taking place in our lives.
Put yourself first
It’s time to put your needs, your dreams and passions first. You have to stop and realize that there is no way you’ll ever please everyone and accept that. Use this period of your life to start making decisions which make you happy and excited, instead of thinking what anyone might say or feel about your decisions. Choose people and opportunities which will make you happy whether they the norm or not.
Surround yourself with good people
There are some people in all our lives which try to pull us down whether it is intentional or not. Its necessary to be around friends or family who are supportive of you not in a sugarcoating everything for you way but in a way where you can always count on them. Spending time with people who are understanding, supportive, and positive, goes a long way in keeping us mentally sane. Knowing there are people who always have your back no matter what is such a comfort in this confusing phase of life.
Accept failure
Things do not go your way once in a while, as we grow up most of the times they don’t go your way. Its okay to make mistakes, at this stage making mistakes is very normal. These mistakes don’t define your life they will help you improve. So, all the frustration and disappointment over failure is completely okay but try not to dwell on it too much. Failure is not the end of anything it’s just a step to better things.
Letting go
This is the most difficult part of life, ‘letting go’. I know saying to someone that should let go is an easy thing but actually doing it, is a whole another ball game. It’s tough forgetting the past, it is like moving on from a part of your life and it takes a lot of effort but its necessary. The world is full of possibilities and all the things you deserve will be yours eventually but dwelling on the issues that hurt to hinders the present. Live in the moment and everything will work out just have a little faith.
Trying to incorporate these perspectives into your life might seem far-fetched but it will actually help you deal with the turmoil within. You have to go with the flow and no matter how cliché it sounds; you have to be patient and optimistic to be able to adjust to adulthood.
You can say you know a person,
but it’s not true.
You can never really know someone,
People keep changing.
It doesn’t matter if you have known them for a year,
a month or all your life.
When the time comes,
You realize,
You never really knew them at all,
you just thought you did.
If becoming an adult isn’t already hard enough, it also comes with emotional exhaustion and it is an overwhelming time. In a generation, where there is so much internal and external pressure on individuals to live up to certain set standards. It becomes of utmost importance to cope with the stress and anxiety day after day. It’s necessary to adopt some stress-relieving habits which will rejuvenate your mind and body.
Dance away
Dance is also a form of exercise and makes a nice change from the boring gym routines. It’s not just about fitness though it’s the energetic atmosphere, loud music, and a chance to groove that is such a stress reliever. It gets your heart and spirit pumping in tune to the music. Take up a Zumba or Salsa class and dance away from your problems for a while; dance burns a lot of calories so that’s a bonus.
Join a hobby class
I understand in the limited amount of time on our hands with jobs and studying and much more, there isn’t much time for extra activities. This is a fact but doing something new is also helpful. Find a hobby you always wanted to pursue but didn’t get time so be it calligraphy, painting, or even learning a new language. It gives you something different to do and break away from the mundane routine; socializing in new circles and learning something new at the same time. It distracts one from the daily hustle and bustle.
Take a break
This is the best and easiest solution to stress-busting is taking a break. Be it a four-day trip, one day or a month; give yourself the much-needed break every now and then. It revitalizes your physical and mental capacities. A change in scenery will give you a much needed fresh perspective and that goes a long way. Drive away for a day trip or book yourself a tour but get away from the daily schedule and recharge.
Surround yourself with loved ones
It sounds very cheesy, I agree. There are so many people around who are not genuine or try to pull you down and that affects your overall well-being. Being around people who care, nurture and cherish you through the highs and lows of life bring a lot of positivity in your life. Surrounding yourself with people who are positive, inspiring and caring is good for one’s emotional state. Even a two-hour lunch or quick call with them can make you feel a little better and get you back on track.
The problems due to stress are increasing rapidly in the millennial generation; living up to the high expectations we set for ourselves is difficult. It is okay to take a step back and regroup your mental and physical energies once in a while. These habits are a few options to cope with the stress levels.
Behind the Walls.
Spending every day with walls around my heart,
Now for you, I was ready to knock them off,
With you, everything seems easy even the quiet.
I wanted to let you know how you affect me,
But the walls made me pause,
I wanted you to knock them down for me,
then you would finally see me, the real me.
It was my favorite daydream,
You would be mine and I yours,
No walls, no pretenses, just us,
And happy endings.
Part 4 of 4
CHAPTER 4
“How are you holding up?” Rose asked me while she worked on the dishes. After the funeral, the few close people who attended came back to the house for a memorial or whatever it is.
April shrugged. She felt sad, hurt and lonely like a part of her was lost. “Rose, I am fine.” She said firmly and Rose nodded. Soon Adam entered the kitchen.
“How are you feeling?” he asked softly. She sighed, she knew they care but seriously this needs to stop. That’s all she has been asked since last night and it was getting annoying. Her being fine or not is not going to bring Nana back so why bother?
“For God’s sake, I AM FINE. Do you want it in writing?” She snapped at both of them who looked at her with wide eyes, she was always pretending to be in control which was now haunting her. They were expecting her to sit crying in a corner or move on. She knew all she needed was to take her mind off things so she could get through this so she busied herself in the kitchen chores. She took a deep breath. “I am sorry ok? I am trying to deal with this but you guys are not making it easy.” She said scrubbing the kitchen top.
“You should take it easy. You haven’t even sat down since last night, you didn’t sleep and you didn’t eat anything since lunch yesterday. Let me help you.” Rose said taking a step forward. She stepped back and stood still. What was wrong with her? She needed to get a grip. She can do this; she can’t expect someone to take care of her because that person was gone. She started scrubbing again.
Rose took a step towards her and she stopped. “Don’t you guys have packing to do? I mean you are leaving today so are you done with it?” she asked crossing her hands over her chest.
“Umm…no,” Rose said making her frown. “April, actually we are changed plans we pushed our tickets ahead we will leave next weekend” Adam explained.
She raised her eyebrows at them. “Why? Yesterday Rose was so excited to start living with you. Why the sudden change of plans?” She asked.
Rose looked everywhere else but at her. Oh shit, no then it dawned on her they are staying here for her. No way she was going to let that happen. “Seriously, that’s too much. No way I am letting you guys do this. So pack up your bags and leave.” She instructed.
They shook their heads almost making her stomp her foot in frustration. “We can’t leave you now.” Rose said. “You need us right now. We want to stay.” Adam added.
Great now they are actually agreeing wow, that’s pissed her off. “Just leave, I don’t need anyone ok? Go today itself.” She said. They were about to respond but she cut them off. “Please leave me alone, I DON’T NEED YOUR HELP.” She stated angrily.
The same instant Kyle entered the kitchen with dishes in his hand. What is he doing here? She thought he left, he gave her a small smile and she remembered how he looked at her yesterday, he doesn’t care, he just feels bad for her, it made her angrier. “Same goes to you as well,” she said and walking past them straight to her room slamming the door behind her.
She curled up in a ball on her bed and let the tears out which she had been holding. This was the first time in hours she actually sat down. Everything was going so fast she didn’t get time to deal with it on her own. She wiped her tears roughly no, she couldn’t cry she shouldn’t, she can do this she reminded herself. After an hour or two of crying and some sleeping, she made her way downstairs to grab a bite. It had finally stopped raining heavily but a light drizzle continued. The whole house was empty, this is what she feared all the way, being alone and that was exactly what happened. She has no family, no friends and no boyfriend to help her get through this mess somehow. She was completely and utterly alone in every human way possible, how was she going to survive? She had no one left who actually cared for her. Adam and Rose must have already left, nana is no more. She felt a pang of pain kick her in the gut. Why was she even alive? She didn’t want to die old with ten cats in this very house. She had nothing left to lose, nothing left to live for.
She picked up her jacket and started walking towards the place where no will ever be able to find her. She was out of breath by the time she reached her regular spot on the cliff overlooking the lake also known as suicide point which was ironic in this situation. She was warm enough so she removed my jacket and took small steps towards the far edge. She looked down and stepped back instinctively, this is what she was here for and now she was scared? She felt like such a loser. She closed her eyes and many memories flashed in front of her eyes. Her parents and her; sitting around the table laughing while having dinner, both of them looking at her with huge smiles. Nana and she eating an ice cream sitting on a park bench a few months ago when Nana was asking me to go and talk to the hot guy. She smiled remembering about her nana and parents, yup, she was definitely going in a better place. All her life she had to deal with people leaving her, she was hurt. She will be with them, never alone again with her family where she belongs. She took a step forward, her eyes still closed. She shouldn’t be doing this. This is crazy she couldn’t do this, could she?
“What the hell are you doing?” A voice asked loudly from behind her making her stop dead in her tracks. She took a step backward and turned around in a quick swift motion almost falling flat on her face.
“Kyle, what is wrong with you?” She asked taking a step towards him “You scared me, dumb ass.” She shouted. He just shrugged settling on a rock nearby. She put her hands on my hips “What? Are you stalking me now?” She asked impatiently when he didn’t respond to any of her comments.
He will never let her be at peace. Off course he had to be the one to ruin her suicide plan now he will think she is crazy not that she cared what thought. She agreed it was a bad move to try jumping off the cliff. “I just happened to be at the right place at the right time.” He said casually as if he hadn’t seen her almost jump off the cliff.
Taking a hint and he won’t be leaving anytime soon, she sat on a rock next to him. “What do you think you were doing?” he asked in a defeated voice.
She shrugged. “Jumping off the cliff, why?” She asked casually. She acted like she didn’t care if it wasn’t for him she might be dead meat by now.
“Really? I thought you were better than this, strong and mature. Liv always told me how proud she was of you. Being so responsible and all at a young age.” He said bitterly. “Why?” he asked softly.
She froze at the mention of Nana. Did she tell him about her? Was she proud of her? That is so sweet. “I don’t what else to do. I am so afraid of being alone. Everyone promised me that I will never be alone but look at me now. But I do agree this was a bad move.” She gestured to herself and sighed. “When mom and dad died in that accident I was shattered and I didn’t know how to get past this, I was lost and scared. Then nana helped me through it, I depended on her for everything and now that she is gone. It’s just hard to start everything over again and this time I don’t have anyone left to get me through it.” She said. Why did she say all this to him? She had never even said this out loud to herself let alone to someone else but now it just came pouring out.
“You are strong to put this behind you. Rosalie and Adam wanted to help why didn’t you just let them stay? You wouldn’t have felt so lonely.” He said in a low voice.
She sighed. “She was excited to start fresh with him and I didn’t want to ruin it for them. They have to get on with their stuff, they can unlike me. I want them to be happy and not hold them back in any way.” She explained.
“I guess that makes sense. How typical of you though to think about others before yourself” He said softly. They just sat staring ahead without saying anything and what was weird that she didn’t feel awkward for a second. “You know my mom always says hard times don’t last forever. One day if you are sad then there will be a day when you are happy too. Not every day is going to be perfect but if you think that you will be sad for the rest of your life then that’s not true. I know you have had a hard life but I also believe that happiness is just around the corner.” He said and flashed a cute smile.
Her eyes went wide; did Kyle just give her advice? “Close your mouth; don’t want to catch any flies.” He said and smirked. And he was back. “I can be nice.” He said making her smile.
She was processing all that he said but he doesn’t know if it works. She knew he has got everything he wanted he never had to ask twice. “It’s easy for you to say but it’s difficult. I try, I really do.” She mumbled.
He sighed. “I knew you were going to say that. Oh, April sweetie you are so predictable.” He said nudging her playfully. She rolled her eyes but he continued. “I don’t know if your nana ever told you about my mom. She didn’t have a very pleasant past with her dad and mum getting divorced, she lives with her mum and stepfather, stalkerish ex-boyfriend. She has stumbled through it all but now she is happy. See, I gave you a good example. Maybe if she would have given up, I wouldn’t be here” He said.
She never knew this. She means yeah Nana said his mom didn’t have the best life before getting married but she didn’t know anything other than that. Her father had expired due to cancer when she was fourteen. “And you know what I think you are brave and strong then my mum was. If she can do it so can you.” He said. Aww, he is so sweet. “And you have me.” He added with a wink.
She rolled my eyes again but then his face turned serious. “Don’t throw away your life please; if you ever need to talk I am just a phone call away. I know you don’t like me very much but I am not that out of control teenager I was. I will help you and be there for you even if you call me at 2 in the night.” He said tucking a lock of hair behind her ear. “You are going to get all the happiness you deserve, you are amazing.” He said and kissed her cheek.
He wiped a single tear that escaped her eyes. He is right she couldn’t throw away her life nana would never forgive her if she did. Nana said to her that she will never be alone and its true Kyle says he will be with her, she won’t be alone she will have him and she was sure she can count on him. He has so much faith that she can get through this then maybe she should have some faith in herself too. She looked into his grey eyes they were worried and honest; she nodded and smiled at him weakly. “I am going to get through this.” She said with a smile. He sighed pulling her in a one arm hug thing and for the first time in the last three days she was at peace somewhat and it was because of Kyle. She wore her jacket again and took the hood over her head to protect herself from the drizzle. She leaned her head on his shoulder and he wrapped an arm around her pulling her closer to him.
End of flashback
“Hey, thinking about the last time we were here?” Kyle asked sitting next to her and giving her a peck on the lips. She nodded and he smiled.
“It was a great night.” He said kissing her temple lovingly. She smiled again. “Yeah, it was.” She said they had sat here and talked for hours.” You had one weak moment in all these years but I still think you wouldn’t have jumped. You are strong, caring, amazing and responsible that what I love about you.” He said kissing her lips softly.
“I love you too Kyle, you are pretty good yourself .” She said making him roll his eyes. The last time she was here, she wanted to kill herself in a weak moment but so much had changed in four years. She and Kyle dated for a year before getting married and now they have a daughter who is two. Like she said it was a three-day storm. The first day she got her heart broken by Adam who proposed Rose instead of leaving her in distress. The second day she sulked but nana died leaving her without a family. On the third day, she met the love of her life that had been living next door to her for eight years. Out of everything Kyle was the best thing that happened to her. When she thought she had no one, he came by like a knight in shining armor. It was kind of overwhelming to be heartbroken and then your only support being taken away from you but it made her who she was today.
She has so much hope and faith that you can get out of any situation in life all you need is a little help and support. Four years back when she was sitting here she would have never thought about being this happy, having her own family. Kyle’s parents loved her like daughter, she was completely happy being herself for the first time, she was not scared. She will never forget when Nana said that she will never be alone nana was right. When she lost her, she found her true love though she still misses her and her parents off course she had let them go and it’s in the past. The future looked good and she couldn’t be more psyched about it. She turned towards Kyle who was watching her with a smile. She leaned in and kissed him, she wanted to show him what he means to her and how much she loved him but luckily he responded with the same intensity and passion.
Part 3 of 4
She couldn’t sleep properly all night, the memories kept flashing back to back to her every time she closed her eyes. She dreamt about her parents last night as well she wasn’t sure why. Everything was changing. She was scared, vulnerable, hurt and terrified of facing the day. She took a deep breath and reminded herself about the things she thought last night. Words like strong, brave, good friend ran through her mind and she decided she was going to act on it. It hadn’t stopped raining, every time she heard the thunder she jumped a little, it was scary. She was tired; she didn’t feel like getting out of the bed. She couldn’t hide in her room forever even though it was her best option. She got up hesitantly and decided to run a bath and cool down, her eyes were stinging, throat was sore, her head hurt and she looked like a zombie. After a long bath she got dressed in sweats, using make up to hide the bags under her eyes and made her way downstairs quietly. Nana was cooking humming along softly, she stopped when she saw her and smiled like nothing was wrong.
“Good morning, what’s for breakfast?” She asked settling herself on the counter stool. “Pancakes. Here have some.” Nana said pushing three on her plate.
Three? She didn’t think she will even be able to finish one. Why was nana pretending like nothing was wrong? She hasn’t asked her a thing about yesterday. April didn’t want to talk about it but she could at least ask. She didn’t get why her nana thought that not asking about it was giving her space, she needed someone to hold her and tell her that all is going to be okay. She stabbed the pancake with her fork before shoving it in my mouth angrily, just ask and get it over with this silence was killing her. She sighed and sat down quietly like we always do. Stay strong, everything is okay nothing happened she kept repeating this in her mind over and over again. She finally snapped, pushed her plate away and stormed to her room slamming the door behind her.
She groaned, what was wrong with her? She got angry with nana when she didn’t even do anything. She just needed a reason to be angry at something or someone, let this frustration out. Nana had always been so sweet to her all the time and she behaved like a jerk, she didn’t have any control over her emotions at all; she felt so angry and hurt to a point where it was annoying. There was a knock on her door, she ignored it, and she didn’t want to talk to anyone right now and simply stay here until she was ready. She took deep breaths to calm herself down and there was another knock on her door.
She was about to get up when the door opened and Rose entered her room. “Hi.” Rose said smiling at her. “I have been calling you since yesterday, why is your phone switched off?” she asked and came to sit next to her
Rose was the last person she wanted in here. She loved her but Rose got everything she’s ever wished for without having to ask twice, her life has been easy unlike April, she has had to struggle at every step. Why did she deserve better than her? “Hello. You are not going to say anything.” Rose said.
She sighed. “My phone’s not working it got wet. Why are you here?” She snapped. She regretted her rude comment when she saw her smile drop. “I mean this early. Sorry, I am just tired didn’t mean to snap at you.” She apologized.
Rose shook her head and smiled. “You look like hell. Did you sleep at all last night?” she asked. She didn’t want to talk about it so she nodded letting Rose know that was the reason. “Not really but I know you have something to tell me so spill it.” She said trying her best to sound enthusiastic.
“I and Adam are engaged.” Rose squealed loudly, smiling ear to ear. April looked at her and smiled before hugging her. They are happy and she should be psyched for them but she was not, not really. Wow, she was a crappy best friend wasn’t she?
“That’s great, congrats.” She said pulling away from her. She was jealous how that Rose gets to be happy and when she is heartbroken. The funniest thing was that she was getting married to the same guy she has been in love with for years; it was freaking warming her heart. “How did it happen?” She couldn’t help but ask, they were always arguing.
“Well, I have always had some kind of feelings for Adam not as a friend but more. I didn’t know what to say to him or you for that matter, I chickened out every time I tried so I just let it be the way. You know the first time I saw him in my second grade class I developed a crush on him but it took me a year to speak to him. It’s just I don’t exactly know how my innocent crush turned out to be something so much more. That party we went to remember he came back after dropping you home?” Rose asked and she simply nodded.
“We kissed that night, things were getting heated when he stopped and left saying he doesn’t want to lose me. I was drunk actually we both were. I confronted him later when he finally confessed he has feelings for me. I know it is weird to get directly engaged but we have known each other since we were 8. I never was able to feel so strongly for any other guy than Adam.” She stopped and smiled to herself surely thinking about that moment. April just waited for her to continue.
“We haven’t been dating officially but just knew that we love each other. He called you yesterday to tell you everything and celebrate with us but you didn’t come. I know its short notice but we are getting married soon but I will be moving with him to Denver. Its short notice but we are leaving next week. His dad wants him to join as soon as possible. I know there is still time but since we are leaving so I am just going to ask you, will you be my maid of honor?” she asked.
Say what now? Crap, she couldn’t do this, it would be super weird. She couldn’t watch them getting married and not feel awful about it. Rose was looking at her with so much hope in her eyes; she didn’t feel like ruining this for her. How could she not be a part of her best friends wedding. She was her best friend more like a sister, she was going to get over herself and be there for Rose when she needed her because that’s what friend does and honestly no matter what she knew she couldn’t stand losing Rose. “Of course. I would love to.” She said and Rose squealed hugging her again.
They chatted more and she realized that Rose loved Adam so much, she would do anything to make him happy maybe her long wait was over. She too deserves to be happy after all April never told her how she felt about him so Rose had no idea. She would hate herself on her behalf if she ever found out. After hearing Rose’s side of the story she thought this is meant to be, they are supposed to be together so who was she to interfere? She waved at her and Rose ran to her car to avoid getting wet. She walked back, Nana was sitting on the couch watching T.V, and she plopped next to her.
“I am sorry Nana. I behaved like a jerk, it’s been a hard day. I didn’t know what I was doing.” She said playing with her fingers.
“I know about Adam and Rose. I have known for a while now how you feel about the boy. I understand you are heartbroken but they are your best friends, I know you are more upset about losing them as friends you have a hard time letting people in. You feel everyone is going to leave you just like your mom and dad, you are scared and its okay but don’t let it affect your present, let the past be in the past. You and Adam were not meant to be but there is still someone out there for you. It’s not going to be easy but if you love them enough you three will we get through this stronger.” She explained.
Nana pulled her closer to her side when she noticed she had started crying again. All the things nana said were true. “I am scared of being alone. They are leaving next week itself, everything is changing again and I don’t like it.” She replied and buried her face in her hands.
“Oh dear, you will never be alone, remember that.” She said softly and patted her back lovingly. She always said her mum and dad were watching over her if I cry it will make them unhappy after which she decided she was right they wouldn’t want her to be miserable; when she was a kid this thought was a comfort. “You remind me so much of your mom though you look like your dad.” Nana said making her smile.
It’s not just her parents, Nana lost her daughter too. She talks only about their fond memories. April thought she should do the same, she wiped her tears and smiled at her. “No more crying, I will make popcorn you chose a movie and let’s enjoy the weekend.” She said getting up.
“And nana.” She was cut off by her. “I know I know a horror movie. Get some ice cream too there is some left in the freezer.”
She and Nana spent the afternoon watching Paranormal Activity 1 and 2. After the second part was over she stretched and sighed, it was fun just hanging out with Nana alone, it’s been ages since they spent so much time together. After she started working there was a little time left in that she wanted to hang out her friends so she and nana rarely got time only the two of them but she loved her so much. She looked over Nana and she was sweating and looked pale, what was wrong with her? She was fine just few minutes back. “Are you alright? You look pale; let me get you a glass of water.” April said getting up.
She took my hand making me stop. “I am fine, I just need fresh air.” She got up and leaned against the couch for support.
“You are not fine. Just stay here, I will get you a glass of water and we will go to the hospital. Sit down please.” April said and ran to the kitchen. She should call someone for help but the home phone was not working due the storm and her phone got wet yesterday.
She grabbed bottle of water pouring some in a glass and went to the living room. The glass slipped from her hand and shattered on the floor with a loud thump. Nana was on the floor and her eyes were closed. Shit, she slumped on the floor next to her and tried to wake her up but she didn’t respond. She was breathing that’s for sure her chest rose with each breath. April ran out of the house next door. Kyle would help her or at least his parent’s will they are the only ones who could. She pounded on the door as hard as she could. Kyle opened the door with his parents trailing behind him.
She grabbed his hand and tried to pull him along with her but he pulled her close and rested his hands on her shoulder shaking her. “What’s wrong? Are you okay? Say something please.” He begged.
“I…umm…” She trailed off. “Nana she collapsed her eyes are closed please help me, something happened to her please. I don’t know what to do, I am scared please Kyle” She said and started crying.
“Kyle you bring April with you. I and your mom will take Liv to the hospital.” they said and left us there. In minutes she saw them getting into the car with Nana and leaving.
Kyle pulled her into hug. “ Everything is going to be fine okay? I will take you there; do you need something from your house? You want to call anyone.” He whispered to her.
She buried her face in his shoulder and just shook her head. He pulled away “Let’s go.” He said softly holding her hand and pulling her along with him.
The next thing she knows was sitting in the hospital waiting room. The doctors hadn’t said a word for the entire time they had been here. Kyle was sitting next to her with his hand in hers and his parents too were waiting. She knew Nana was not coming back, she could feel it, she was not going to make it and she felt like part of her had just died. She clutched Kyle’s hand even tighter but he didn’t complain maybe she should call Rose and Adam she needed them now more than ever. All she could think of was Nana’s face when she was lying on the floor motionless and pale, she hated herself to even think like this but for a moment she thought nana was dead but thankfully she was breathing. She had no except her. Nana was her rock, she kept her sane in her life she was her mom, her dad, her friend and most amazing grandmother in the whole world.
Someone tapped on her shoulder. She got up shakily and faced the doctor who stood in front of her with pity and regret filled eyes. She knew it, she was right after all, she wished she was wrong. “She had a stroke. I am sorry but we couldn’t do anything, she’s no more. We are sorry for your loss.” The doctor said and squeezed her shoulder before leaving.
No, this can’t be happening, it is just a dream a very bad dream, no a nightmare. She pinched herself as hard as she could and closed her eyes to stop herself from crying out loud in pain. She slumped back on the chair, tears were flowing down her cheeks but she couldn’t care less. She looked straight ahead out of the window without saying a word to anyone, just kept staring. She had lost everything she held dear to her, her friends, her love and most importantly nana. If she was here April would get through situation, she was her pillar and now she was gone. Today when they were watching movies and gossiping she never thought that after midnight her nana might not even be alive. She was used to being with nana. They both had dinner together every night; nana would always make her favorite. Nana was very encouraging and never tried to held her back or stop her from making mistakes. She was her only family and now she was gone. April was truly alone.
Was this all happening because of her? She was so caught up with her problems that she didn’t even realize that nana was unwell. She took her for granted and now she had lost her forever. She should’ve paid more attention, taken her to a doctor then she might still be alive. There was no way that she had a heart attack suddenly, she must have been showing symptoms, hell she didn’t even know nana had any heart problem. She was not very old, 67 she should have had at least fifteen more years. Kyle’s face came in front of her; he was knelling on his knees in front of her and his lips were moving but she didn’t understand a word he said. If she would have gotten help sooner they might have been able to save her. It was all her fault due to her ignorance, reckless and self centered behavior cost nana her life. She would never be able to forgive myself; she deserved to live more than her.
“It’s my fault. This is all my fault.” She whispered to Kyle. He had such a pained expression on his face and pity in his eyes. She didn’t like when people thought about her tragic life. April had hated the look of sympathy every time they saw her. She refused to let them think she was weak that she was broken that was only for her to know. The last thing she wanted was everyone to look at her with those pitiful eyes like Kyle thinking, oh what a poor girl. She turned her head to the other side looking away from him and his eyes which pitied her.
Part 1 of 4
She stared ahead at the beautiful view in front of her. She had always loved to come here, it was just so peaceful and pleasant. She wondered why it was mostly deserted. It was on a cliff which is steep but it has a lake at the bottom and you can literally feel the nature but it’s a long walk and the roads are not in a good condition but she never minded. She found this place when she was thirteen, she needed to be away from everything and just be alone for a while. It was a difficult time for her, she had just moved here to live with her grandmother after her parents died in a car crash when she was 12.
She used to come here and cry her eyes out because she pretended to be strong in front of her nana but she saw through her easily yet never said anything. She plopped on a stone nearby and just watched the sun set, it was the most amazing thing she had experienced till now. She sat there for a while just enjoying her alone time before getting back to reality. She wished she could bring her dad here; he would have loved it even more than she did. She sighed and shut her eyes tight, she didn’t want to cry she decided it was time to let go of her parents but she had learned that letting go is not easy as everyone thinks. It had been a long time and she had made her peace with the fact that her mom and dad are never coming back.
It has been a long time since she came here last. Last time she came here was four years ago then she just stopped. She needed a clean break. You must be wondering if she loved this place why she stopped. Well it’s a long story. She stopped coming here after everything that happened four years ago during the three days of storm. It changed her life forever in a good and bad way. It all started in a way right here but it was sure the beginning of something she didn’t see coming.
FLASHBACK
Her phone vibrated in her pocket making her jump. Rosalie, shit, she had promised to go this stupid college reunion party with her and now she was late, Rose was going to kill her. “Hello.” She answered in a normal tone even though she knew what was coming next.
“April Cassie Spader. Where the hell are you? I have been waiting for you to show up for the last 30 minutes or so. I am so angry at you April Cassie Spader.” She said furiously.
She must be really mad at her if she is middle naming her; she is just short in the patience department and in the temper one too. “Hi to you as well.” She retorted sarcastically.
“You promised you will come. We graduated few months back we might not see these college people again for a long time and it is going to be awesome. So, get your ass here now.” She screamed the last part so loud that April had to hold her phone away from her ear. Jeez, she is loud, she thought but then again she already knew it.
“I am not dressed. I will be there in say forty?” She asked trying not to laugh at her crazy best friend. It was just a party but for Rose unlike April this was the coolest thing that could happen. What had she done to have a friend like her she will never know,
“I will text Adam, he will pick you up. Better be ready in twenty or…” she trailed off. The line went silent for a while.
“Or what?” She asked. She was pressing her luck here, she didnt want to end up on the wrong side of her best friend; she will remind you of this for the rest of your life. April had seen it before, that poor guy who spilled his drink on her. The memory brought a smile to her face.
“I will never speak to you again.” She said after a long pause. April snorted as if it will happen. She calls her up even if she kills a fly.
Rose hung up before she could respond. She picked her bag and made her way home. The weather had been pretty rough for a few days now, a storm is predicted. She unlocked the door and heard voices in the kitchen. She didn’t know they were having guests. She walked into the kitchen and there was Kyle sitting on the counter laughing with nana most likely on his own joke. “Kyle.” She said in a polite tone even though she new he would annoy her soon enough.
“April, nice to see you too.” He said smirking at her. He is such a bully; he always troubled her even as a child. He is four years older than her and often used this as a weapon when they were little, even now. She shook her head getting all the Kyle related thoughts away. He made her life miserable when she started living here and couldn’t they have nice neighbors, he is so irritating. She was getting angry even though he barely did anything right now.
She just shook her head; she won’t let him bother her anymore. “Nana, I am going to a party tonight. Adam is picking me up in a while.” She said directly to her wonderful nana avoiding any arguments with Kyle.
“Oh, I didn’t know you had a boyfriend.” Kyle said before nana could reply. She flushed, her cheeks turning bright pink. He didn’t just say that, she didn’t understand how he found out about her feelings for Adam she never told him. Even Rose didn’t know for God’s sake, she was her best friend even Adam was but you get the point.
“He is just a friend.” She said confidently trying to hide her embarrassment; she hated him so freaking much. If nana was not here, she would have punched him. Nana always thought he was such decent boy.
She got ready in a simple green dress used some make up and was ready to go. She made sure she looked good because Adam was picking her up; she wanted to look good for him. He was such a nice guy, she didn’t have any friends except him and Rose but Rose didn’t know that she was in love with him. She felt guilty about it but she thinks Rose won’t be able to understand and will make her do something she might regret later. She wished she could just tell him and get it over with, it was very frustrating keeping it stored up inside like this. The door bell rang and she ran down the stairs in a hurry almost tripping on her way. She was smiling like a little kid on Christmas morning; Adam does have that effect on her. She opened the door and almost fainted seeing him, he looked so good. She felt so plain in front of him, he smiled and kissed her cheek like always but it didn’t stop the blushing. She said bye to nana and Kyle since he still hadn’t left, he looked at her with a weird look in his eyes like he was trying to figure her out but she didn’t want to dwell on it.
“Hey, hope I am not late.” Adam asked and helped her into his car. “You look good by the way; green is definitely your color.” He said hopping in the driver’s seat.
Her cheeks turned red once again. “Thanks, you don’t look so bad yourself.” She complimented him and he just smiled showing his dimples.
She glanced his way, his eyes focused on the road. He looked good in that white fitting shirt and faded jeans. He is tall, dark and handsome just perfect in every way. His phone rang, he sighed and then answered. “Yes, Rose we are on our way.” He replied with an amusing expression on his face.
He said something more but she was too busy checking him out. “This girl is impossible; she has been harassing me for an hour.” He said.
April giggled and shook her head. “Takes one to know. You have to drop me home ok? That too before 1 or 2, Nana worries.” She added making him chuckle.
“ Yeah. No worries.” He said looking at her with a smile before turning his gaze ahead again. “Here we are.” He said after a few minutes.
We were parked in front of some house which she had never seen before. Whose is throwing this party? She was here but she had no clue. Adam looked at her confused state and chuckled. “Patrick, the guy, who use to sit beside you in art. It’s his party.” He said.
“If it wasn’t for Rose I wouldn’t even be here.” She said and we started walking to the house. Patrick never even said a word to her through college life, she felt weird showing up at his party like this.
“Finally, about time.” Rose came to us pushing people out of her way. She hugged April squeezing her to death. “You look really pretty. Come on let’s find you guy.” She said excitedly and ushered her inside. Adam was trailing behind them quietly.
“I don’t want you to find a guy.” She said and making Rose roll her eyes. “You always set me up with weirdoes; I don’t think I trust your choice anymore.” She remarked.
Rose stopped walking and faced them. “I do have a good taste that guy ugh yeah Jack he was nice right. You are just anti-social. Back me up Adam.” She said crossing her arms over her chest.
“She is right, you are not very social.” He said and Rose nodded a little too much enthusiasm. “That’s not true.” April protested.
Okay, maybe it is true but she wasn’t going to agree. She had only two friends, she did go on dates and all but she didn’t feel she missed anything because she loved Adam who is not at all being supportive. He and Rose started talking about something while she searched for drinks. She was never much of a drinker plus she promised nana she won’t drink without adult supervision that is her nana itself or Rose’s parents might do. She said hi to some people from her class and poured herself a soda; half the people were already drunk. Don’t they have to work tomorrow?
“Come, let’s dance.” Adam said out of the blue scaring her a little. She shrugged and let him tug her along to the living room where people were scattered around dancing like maniacs.
“It’s so crowded.” She complained and tripped over something. Adam steadied her and kept his hand around her waist pulling her close to his side.
He slid his other hand to her waist and they started dancing. “What were you and Rose arguing about?” She asked curiously.
He sighed. “Well, do we ever need a reason argue?” Adam said. She chuckled, it was true. They were friends who fought all the time without any reason and April got dragged right into it even if she didn’t want to. “I was just looking out for her, she is so impulsive but obviously she didn’t listen.” He added.
She didn’t really understand why they fought so much; they have been friends since third grade. Whenever she asked Rose about it she just shrugged it off like nothing, it was kind of weird. She looked up to meet Adam brown eyes, they were sparkling and it just made her smile. He pulled back and spun her around; they both were laughing and having a good time. He is so sweet, it didn’t take her long to fall for him and he just understands her while most people don’t.
“So how is work? Anything interesting happened?” he asked with a small smile on his face. He is just too cute for his own good, why can’t he be with her? She thought.
She decided to answer him, he was waiting, and she can dwell over that later. “It’s good. I work at a library; the most interesting thing to happen is nothing. “ She said sarcastically with a smile and he chuckled.
She shrugged, it is true. Don’t get her wrong she loved working there being surrounded by books its good but can get dull. There were only two other employees except her but she needed a job and it pays well enough. She didn’t like burdening nana with all the responsibilities; she had taken care of her since she was 12 now it was her turn. She looked up again and gazed into Adam’s eyes, she had closed off after her parents but he and Rose crawled under her defenses. She was still scared of losing them, she loved her parents more than anything and when they were gone it hurt her a lot. She was only scared to lose anyone; it haunted her the thought of being alone.
“You zoned out.” Adam said making her look away from his beautiful eyes. “What’s going on? Do you have to be home soon?” he asked.
She had no idea what time it was. She stopped and pulled her mobile out, shit she was late. “Can you give me a ride home? Like now.” She asked.
“Yeah, let’s go.” He said with a smile guiding her to the parking, keeping her close to his side. Is he protective of her or is it something more? She could never tell.
She texted Rose that she was leaving but assured her that Adam will be coming back. They got into his car, it was dark and cold, scary but she was with Adam so it was ok. She looked over to him, he looked a lost, out of place. He has been pretty quiet all night. “Adam, you okay? You look lost. Is something wrong with you?” She asked softly.
He sighed. She stared at him, waiting for him to continue. “My dad wants me to join his friend’s business.” He said. She frowned so is this a bad thing? “It’s in Denver. I have to join as soon as possible probably in a couple of weeks or even less. It’s a good opportunity but leaving everything behind, family, you and Rose, I don’t if I can do it. I am confused. It’s scary April.” He said sadly and rested his head back.
Denver, what about her? April knew it was selfish but she couldn’t help it. “What do you want? You said its good right?” She questioned but couldn’t hide the sadness from her tone.
He nodded. “It’s an amazing opportunity especially for a fresher like me. ” He said. She processed all of this; she couldn’t believe she was going to say this, if that’s what he wants it was good enough for her.
“Then you should go. You will regret it if you don’t. If it doesn’t work out, you can always come back. But at least give it a shot.” She said softly and looked way. Don’t cry, not in front of him, he will get confused even more, she warned herself, Think about him not about yourself, don’t look at him or you will cry she explained myself.
“You are right.” He sighed. “What would I do without you?” he said and she looked at him. She didn’t know whether to cry or be happy, he is going away from her and that’s all she could think off.
She forced a smile and in seconds the car stopped. He got out as well. He hugged her tightly like he was saying goodbye and she couldn’t control anymore. She started crying and he just held her tighter whispering to her making everything seen alright. She pulled away and looked at him embarrassed. She was so crazy, who cries on someone like that, he will think she is crazy. “Don’t worry, I won’t forget about you. I still have a few days left to annoy you guys.” He said to lighten the mood. She slapped his arm playfully and smiled at him weakly before going back inside. She couldn’t say anything to him without her voice cracking, its better she didn’t say anything at all.
She went to Nana’s room making minimum noise, she was asleep with a book on her chest and her lamp still on. She smiled, nana always tried to stay awake till she got home. She picked up the book and set it on her side table, pulled her sheets up to her shoulders, kissed her forehead and put out the lights on her way out. She got changed quickly and got into her warm and soft bed. She hoped things don’t change between her and Adam after he heaves, who was she kidding? Off course they will change, everything will change again just this time she was not sure if she could move past it. She closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.
