Secure

Hazel Raymon


When we were younger, we were often questioned by adults. One of the the most asked question asked is "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Most of us would say doctor, policeman, teacher or even a firefighter. Others would simply just say 'like mommy and daddy'. We are given the chance to choose our future, no matter how silly it may be. I, on the other hand, wash given that privilege.

From the moment I had the ability of talking, I was told that I would follow in my parents' footsteps; attend Brown University and graduate with a degree in law. I was on board for a short period time, but as time progressed, my mind set had made a detour. I didn't want to be a lawyer. I didn't want to have to wear a suit everyday defending people. I simply wanted to travel the world, writing about my experiences. My parents think that my hopes are "absurd" and "preposterous".


Don't get me wrong, I love my parents, but they tend to come off a tad controlling. Or a lot. They've made so many sacrifices for me and my smaller sister. We have everything we've ever wanted. A little too much. We lived in the Plaza Hotel, always were dressed exquisitely. Food was on our dinner table every morning, afternoon and dinner. My sister and I were sent to the most prestigious schools in the city. Everything was in its place. Some people may say we have the perfect life, that we're prude and selfish. But that couldn't be more far from the truth.

Here, right now, I sit in the entertaining room with the letter that holds my future inside. Brown was the only University I had applied for. According to my parents, it was"Brown or nothing". Of course, they were over exaggerating. They couldn't bare to have a daughter who didn't go through college. They'd die of disappointment, regret and embarrassment. My grades weren't bad. In fact, I'd managed to keep an A average over the course of my four years at high school. I was high in extra curricular activity and I was the activity director for my year. I was still nervous, though. Anyone would be. I mean, it's college.

"Well, open it!" My mother urges me.

I sigh softly before ripping out. My heart was racing, my mind doing backflips.

My eyes skimmed over the words printed on the paper. Them widening more and more after each word.

"I got in," I say breathlessly. I was excited yet disappointed. Excited with the fact that I'd make my parents happy, following in the footsteps. But disappointed with the fact that this is the end of my dreams. I will go to Brown and I will do law. I will not do journalism and I won't get to travel.

My thoughts were cut off by three pairs of arms engulfing me in a hug. My ears were invaded with the sniffling from my mother and congratulations from my sister and father.

"We're so proud," my father whispers, kissing my forehead. I simply smile and nod.

My sister simply send me a nod. She knows how I feel about the whole law thing, and she does too. She aspires to be an artist. Both artistic and musical. Saying she was brilliant at both was an understatement. She was even in a band, not with the permission of my parents of course. I must admit, Ellie was quite the rebel. I was no better, though. On Saturdays, my parents have come to the assumption that I'm at piano lessons, when in reality, I am at an old bookstore in Brooklyn. I work there, well, I told the owner I was willing to work for free. Her name was Betsy. An old lady, about 70 years old. I happened to stumble upon 'Literary B' when I was off looking for a record shop a friend of mine had told me about. I immediately took a liking to the old vintage style of the shop and took the job. I loved being around all these dusty ass novels everyday. The days were always slow, so I always had time on my hands to fit in a few chapters in my shift.

"How about a bottle to celebrate?" My mother asks. I slightly cringe and deny her offer. Telling her I would rather go see a movie alone. I was in no mood to share a bottle of champagne with those who ruined my dreams. I stand from the couch and walk upstairs, leaving my family behind. I pass a few house workers, receiving a few nods and mutters of congratulations. News around here spreads fast.

Once in the elevator, I hit the button for lobby. The door were in the process of closing when an arm extended it was between them, causing the doors to reopen. I smile once I take notice on who was standing there; Jimmy. Jimmy has been working for my family for as long as I can remember. He's been my shoulder to cry on, my diary to share secrets with. He was my best friend and I loved him dearly.

He too, engulfs me in a hug rocking me back and forth with it causing me to giggle.

"Congratulations mi querido," he whispers into my hair. It's because of him why I speak fluent Spanish.

"Muchas gracias Jimmy," He steps away and I take notice that he had been hiding something behind his back. I raise a curious eyebrow at him and he grins widely before retrieving the hidden item.

I squeal when I notice what he held in the palm of his hand. There, rests a bottle of Pepsi. Yes, I know, most people would scoff at such a present but it meant a lot to me. And he knew it. My parents would have an aneurism knowing that had been in my system. I grew up around water, champagne, wine and tropical juices. My insides craved the acidic and unhealthy contents of a soda.

Jimmy shushes me and I shut up, knowing my parents would want to know what all the commotion is about. And if they found out, well, I was in deep shit.

"You're the best Jimmy," I grin at him before taking one more hug. He bids me farewell before hitting the lobby button for me and heading out of the elevator.

Notes

Chapter 1 was very short but that's exactly how I wanted it.

Dont complain! I'll either update again tonight or tomorrow.

And I actually wanted to start this thing when I ask my readers a few questions just So I can get to know you guys (:

So, QOTD : How old are you?
-I'm 16.


Be sure to check out my other story Resolution!
Lots of love! Xxx