As I sat in my room, I kept thinking about the invitation to Senior Week.
"Hey, Mom, can I go to Senior Week with Fiore and Tristan?" I asked.
"You can go if your room is clean to my standards," Rachelle replied.
"Alright, Mom. Come look at it."
She walked toward my room.
"It's ready for your approval, right?" I teased.
"Don't get smart with me," she said, trying not to smile.
"Sorry, Mom. I really want to make memories with my friends."
She looked at the disappointed expression on my face.
"So… can I go now?" I asked hopefully.
"Sure. I want you to be happy and safe," Rachelle replied with a smile.
I could tell by the look in her eyes that she wasn't ready for me to leave.
I called Fiore.
"She said yes," I told her.
"She's on board with the trip?" Fiore asked excitedly.
"Yep."
"I'll be over in an hour with Tristan," she replied.
"Did Tristan work today?" I asked.
"He worked from eight to three."
After we hung up, I packed my cutest outfits and shoes. While folding clothes into my suitcase, I glanced at the picture of my mom and me in Vegas on my Sweet Sixteenth. She looked so happy that day. It had been years since then.
Once I gathered everything—including a few snacks for the road—I waited by the window. When Fiore finally pulled up outside, excitement rushed through me. The adventure was finally beginning.
"Izumi, Fiore and Tristan are outside waiting for you!" Rachelle called.
"Come on, Izumi! Gas isn't free!" Fiore shouted from outside.
"I'm coming!" I yelled back.
I hurried downstairs with my suitcase in hand. Tristan met me at the door, took my bag, and loaded it into the trunk before we drove off.
"Have an enjoyable trip, you all!" Rachelle called after us.
"Bye, Mom!" I shouted through the window.
"And do nothing I wouldn't do!" she yelled back.
As we pulled away, I watched my mom standing in the driveway, sending us off with a smile.
"Let's make memories on this road trip!" Fiore cheered.
"I agree with that," Tristan replied.
That night, we made memories—and much more.
Stay Tuned for Part Two.