In seventh grade on the cusp of my birthday, I looked out at the snowfall and took a sigh of relief- no school tomorrow for sure.
I had grown sick of the pitiful looks I was spared by the adults, and as much I love chocolate, the piles of pity candy in my desk were sickening.
I suppose it was my fault for balling in class the day after mom left, I basically made it public information when my teacher asked if something had happened.
December 22nd, the day before my birthday. My father was barely ever in the house, I actually hadn't seen him much for the last year, just the occasional random groceries popping up from nowhere and today- for the first time ever- a wrapped gift on the table.
I could hardly wait to open it, waiting for the clock to hit the next day to which I could tear into the gift.
When it finnaly ticked to 12 I hurriedly opened it. To which I found a note and an expensive looking laptop.
The excitement didn't last long as I opened the note and read its contents…
I'm sorry you had to find out this way, your father is not coming back. This food has been sent by your mother, but having heard the news she forced me to tell you the truth. Your father has moved countries. Sadly my family will no longer spare the funds to support you, so you must find way by yourself now.
-Liam Fournier
That was a familiar name, I suppose my mother's lover was one of the rich lawyers in town, the worst part was the fact I didn't even get a ride out of town to an adoption center- or anything of the sorts.
This can't be how these things are usually done? Right?
I cried that night for a very long time, clutching the brand new laptop that was somehow supposed to replace a family.