Page 71 of Autumn Secrets
“Great, thanks. I’ll be fine for a few days though, don’t you worry.”
Mum nodded. “I know, I just want you to feel safe.”
“I do feel safe.”
I decided then, while I had her confined to the car, that this was the time to open the conversation.
“As you know, I’ve spent quite some time with Mr and Mrs Peters…”
Mum nodded. “I know.”
“So, how do you feel about that? I haven’t really asked you.”
“Aurora, I only want you to be happy. If this is what you want, then I’ll support you all the way. Please, don’t ever forget that.”
“I miss you, Mum.”
“I’m here, sweetheart. You asked for space, but it doesn’t mean that I’m not here.”
“I want you to tell me about my dad, and my life. No secrets. I want the whole story.”
“Yes, I know. And I’m ready. I’m back from London on Tuesday night. Why don’t I have Wednesday off to just talk, okay? You’ll be on holidays, and we can take our time with no interruptions.”
I nodded and smiled. “I would like that.”
“Me too. I know I haven’t been around much since we got here, but that will change once I’m back from London,” she said and squeezed my hand. “I love you, Aurora.”
“I love you too, Mum.”
Mum dropped me off just after seven by the school.
“Have fun tonight. And Lexi is taking you home?”
“I will. And yes, Lexi will take me home afterwards.”
“Good. Now, I’ve actually borrowed a car for you while I’m away since mine will be at the airport in the city. Mr Peters will get it for you tomorrow.”
“Great.”
“And one more thing before I go.” Mum jumped out of the car. “Let me take a picture. I’ve never seen you in a dress like this before. You look so beautiful.”
I rolled my eyes. “Mum.”
“It’s true, you look stunning. The boys will all be fighting over you.”
I giggled. “Whatever.”
I almost started to tell her about Adrian but decided to wait until she got back from London.
I had butterflies in my stomach, as I hugged Mum goodbye and started walking towards the hall. Lexi had texted me over an hour ago, telling me the girls were already inside. I moved towards the hall where I could hear music playing loudly. Most of the school knew about me and Adrian by now; we hadn’t gone unnoticed. I was excited to see him. I passed a few cars on my way in, where students were hanging outside, having a sneaky drink before they went inside. I shook my head and continued towards the school hall. I’d never understood the appeal of alcohol, even more so after last weekend.
The girls and their crew had done an amazing job decorating. Everything was draped in yellow, red and orange, really highlighting the autumn theme. The hall was full of people dancing or sitting around tables chatting.
“Aurora! There you are!” a familiar voice called out from somewhere. I noticed Lexi, Jasmine and Mia further inside. They looked absolutely beautiful in their dresses. It was like a prom night, except that you didn’t have to come with a date. I’d never been to something like this before.
“You guys look great, and the place looks amazing. Everything is so perfect.”
And for the first time, I actually felt that to be true. I had a great bunch of friends, and here I was at my first ever school party. I really wanted to enjoy this evening.