I literally sat with a blank face as they went on and on. Even though I didn't live with them, my mom guilt tripped me into visiting her parents with her.

My dad slipped out of it by making some dumb excuse. But it was Saturday, and the only excuse I had was that I wanted a day off.

So we drove two an a half hours to play bingo with my grandparents for three hours.

Right now, I was laying on the couch staring at the ugly peeling wall. They were talking about hunting and knitting I believe.

Why didn't I drive separately? I hated myself for not.

I sat there for another half hour before my mom finally stood up.

"Okay, well, We've got some things to do back home. So we better get going."

I smiled. Freedom.

I jumped up and walked over. I gave my grandma a hug then went over to my grandpa.

He squeezed me so tight, I thought I was going to suffocate. And it wasn't a short hug either.

And his breath stunk. "My little Braelynns all grown up. Don't grow anymore. That's an order", he said, stabbing my foot with his cane.

And of course, I wasn't wearing shoes, so it hurt like crap.

I have the fakest, sweetest smile and laugh. "Don't worry, grandpa. I won't".

I hopped away on my one good foot and put my shoes on.

I swung open the door and waited in the car while my mom finished talking.

Eventually, she came out and started the car.

"See? Aren't you glad you came?" She asked.

I literally gave this look like,"You're kidding. Right?" But she didn't see it.

"Oh yeah. It was great", I said.

"Oh. I was talking to Miss Loft yesterday. Apparently, Jessica is coming down to visit her dad for a few weeks."

I turned to her. "Really? Oh yes!"

She smiled.

Jessie was my only true friend. We had been friends since we were in kindergarten.

"Her mom hasn't been doing so well, so she's even considering moving back to Tuttle".

I gave her a shocked look. "Really? Oh my gosh! That'd be so awesome!"

We drove the rest of the way in silence. At least, she did.

I listened to music the whole way. Otherwise, I would go completely insane.

My mom kept subtly looking over at my music. I felt really uncomfortable.

"What are you listening to?" She asked.

I looked over. "Music", I said.

She rolled her eyes and kept driving. Finally, after what seemed like a lifetime and a half, she dropped me off at my apartment.

I staggered in the door. Home sweet home.

Just as I was about to plop down on the couch, I got a phone call.

"Hello?" I answered.

"Hey Braelynn. This is Darby." She talked so softly, I could barely hear her.

"Oh! Hey! What's up?"

"Umm... Noah, his friend, and I are

Going to the mall. Would you want to come along?"

What? She had never invited me to hang out before. Ugh. I should probably except.

"Yeah! Sure. That sounds cool! When?" I replied.

"Umm.... Around sixish", she replied.

"Sounds good! I'll be over there about six then!"

"Okay. Bye Braelynn", she said.

I plopped down. Couldn't I get two seconds of alone time?

Hey! I know this was kinda short, but at least I updated! Don't forget to vote and comment your thoughts!!! Love ya!!!