I trudged along beside my mom as we walked to the local convenience store. I was still feeling grumpy about the move, and the last thing I wanted to do was go shopping.
"Come on, Emmy, it'll be fun," my mom said, trying to sound enthusiastic. "We need to pick up a few things for dinner anyway."
I sighed and followed her into the store. As we wandered up and down the aisles, I noticed a girl about my age watching us from the magazine rack. She had long, curly black hair and a bright smile.
"Hi," she said, approaching us. "I'm Raya. I live just down the street from you."
My mom smiled and introduced us. Raya and I chatted for a bit, exchanging small talk about school and our shared love of reading.
As we talked, I noticed a display of journals and diaries near the checkout counter. Something about them caught my eye.
"Mom, can I get one of those?" I asked, pointing to the diaries.
My mom smiled. "Of course, sweetie. Which one do you want?"
I scanned the selection and picked out a pretty pink one with a lock and key.
As we checked out and left the store, Raya walked with us. "So, are you excited for school tomorrow?" she asked.
I groaned. "I don't know...I'm really nervous."
Raya smiled sympathetically. "Don't worry, it'll be okay. I'll show you around and introduce you to my friends."
I smiled back, feeling a tiny sense of relief. Maybe this new school wouldn't be so bad after all.
As we said our goodbyes and Raya headed back home, my mom turned to me and smiled.
"See, Emmy? I told you it wouldn't take long to make friends here."
I rolled my eyes, but couldn't help feeling a tiny spark of hope.
Maybe this new life wouldn't be so bad after all.
As we walked back home, I clutched my new diary tightly in my hand. I couldn't wait to start writing in it and documenting my new life.
Little did I know, tomorrow would bring its own set of surprises...