Chapter 3 Trying to heal

A week has elapsed since the unfortunate incident occurred, and I have actively embraced the journey of moving forward with my life. I have consciously allowed the turbulent waves of the past to ebb away, paving the way for a brighter future.

One fine morning, my phone suddenly rang, and to my surprise, the caller was none other than my cousin, Hanna, who resides in New York with her family. It had been more than a decade since our paths had crossed.

“Hello, Hanna. How are you?” I answered the call.

“Thank goodness you still remember my name. You've forgotten about your cousin,” Hanna teased.

I chuckled and replied, “I apologize, I've been busy.”

Hanna interrupted, “How busy can you be that you can't even call or text?”

Realizing my mistake, I pleaded, “I'm sorry. Please forgive me.”

Hanna continued, “No, not until you promise to come stay with us in New York, even if just for a month, Clara.”

I hesitated, unsure of what to say.

“Please, Clara. I want you here. Please, please, please,” Hanna implored.

“I need to speak with my mom about it first” I responded.

“ Okay, thanks” she replied

After concluding my call with her, which lasted approximately an hour, I proceeded to the kitchen to prepare breakfast. Being alone at home as my mother was at work, I cooked noodles and brought them to my room. I comfortably sat on the bed, enjoying my meal while listening to music.

After my breakfast, I returned to the kitchen to clean up, then in uh a couple strolling hand in hand. This sight triggered a flood of emotions within me as memories of Kevin and our past flooded my mind.

Recollections of the promises he had made and the moments we shared brought tears to my eyes. The pain of reminiscing felt as if my heart was being squeezed.

Despite my efforts, to forget about him and move on. Memories persist, entwined within me.

The winds tousle my hair, and I yearn for them to carry away these haunting recollections.

I wipe my eyes, reach for my phone, and investigate ways to overcome a painful past. Amidst a plethora of suggestions, one particular answer caught my eye—the idea of relocating to a new environment to facilitate healing and growth.

That's it, I have to move to another place if I want to forget the past. I will talk to my mom about it when she returns.

Mrs. Alice, a hardworking woman, returned home from a long day at work. After cooking dinner for herself and her daughter, Clara. They eat their food in silence.

“Mom, I would like to discuss something with you” Clara broke the silence

“What's that ”. Mrs. Alice asked as she cleaned her mouth with a napkin.

“ I intend to go to New York to stay with Aunt Aria" she announced

“ What? ”

“Mommy, I will just stay there for a month” I said

“Clara you know I can't stay without you, I will be lonely Mrs. Alice said sadly

I understand her feelings, ever since I was born, I haven't been away from her. I did not say anything again. I low my head and silently continue with my meal.

That night Hanna called me, I told her what my mom said. I could sense the sadness in her voice. After we spoke, I ended the call and went to sleep.

The following morning, a gentle knock at the door roused me from my slumber. With heavy eyelids, I made my way to the entrance and met my mother. Greeting her with a warm voice “Good morning,”

I walked back to my room and sit down on the bed

“ Did you slept well last night" mommy ask as she sits beside me on the bed

I nod my head In response

She did not say anything for a while, just sitting down, staring at me.

“ Mommy" I called giving her a question look

“ Clara, I have agreed that you will go to New York" she announced

I was surprise for her sudden agreement. I don't know if I should be happy or sad.

After a moment of silence, I asked Mom why she had suddenly agreed for me to go to New York. Tears streamed down her face as she said.

“I believe you will be happy there, although I am going to miss you”

I hugged her tightly. “Thanks Mommy, l love you” I whispered.

The following day, I made my way to the airport to collect my ticket for my upcoming flight scheduled in just two days.

Excitement filled me as I returned home. Upon returning home, I meticulously organized my belongings and packed my bags in preparation for the trip.

I called Henna to share the news of my coming to New York. Her joyful reaction was palpable even over the phone as she exclaimed, “I am so happy, Clara! I can't wait to have you here.”

Moved by the way she was happy, I responded warmly, “Me too,” before bidding her farewell.

It was the evening before my scheduled flight, and as I was preparing to retire for the night, my mother entered the room.

“Mommy,” I called.

Observing my readiness for sleep, she questioned, “Are you about to sleep,” I confirmed her assumption with a nod.

“Yea, have to sleep early because of my flight tomorrow” I added

She smiled and move closer to me, “I have something for you Clara”

She brought out a bracelet from her pocket and handle it to me

Receiving the bracelet from her hand, I gently placed it on my wrist, taking a moment to appreciate its intricate design. Expressing my gratitude, I uttered, “It is beautiful, thank you so much, mommy.”

With a warm smile, she responded, “You are most welcome, Clara. Please take care of it as it holds sentimental value. It was a gift from your late grandmother to me.” Moved by her words, I promised to keep it safe.

Before bidding me good night, she gently kissed me on my forehead, turn off the light before returning to her room.