Pieces

Chapter 21

I stayed in England another week. I spent half my time at my house and the other half at Rebecca's mum's. I even stayed at her brother's one night. I felt the need to be close to them, especially since Rebecca left.

Marcus called to let me know he was ok and that he was waiting to board a plane for Paris. He seemed in higher spirits and I was happy for him. I told him I would let him know when I got back to the states and that I missed him. I called every one of my friends and told them all I could manage to get out, then called Bri to do the same and let her know what time my flight would get in.

...

When I stepped into the lobby after leaving the terminal, I caught sight of my friends. They had all shown up to greet me and it made my heart swell. I started walking toward them and Nina saw me, then started running. She slammed into me and pulled me into the biggest hug her little frame could allow. Eventually, everyone caught up and did the same, wrapping me in a group hug. I missed them all so much.

Stephanie took my carry on to load it into her car, whilst Bri waited for me at the baggage claim. She took my hand and said, "I missed you."

I squeezed her hand and told her I missed her too. I felt guilty all of a sudden. I never told Rebecca about Bri, I simply forgot about her and then, I felt even guiltier.

We gathered my luggage and loaded them in the trunk of Stephanie's car, then I hugged the group and told them we would get together soon, then Stephanie drove me home.

Bri decided to stay with me and I couldn't say no, even though I kind of wished I could be alone for a while.

"Do you need help unpacking?" Bri asked when we got inside.

"No, thank you though." I said.

"Ok, I'll make some coffee." She said, then headed toward the kitchen.

I went upstairs and began unpacking my things. When I got done with the first suitcase, I moved on to the second and unloaded it. After I removed everything, I set it on the ground, but heard something move in it when it hit the floor. I opened it back up and felt around, when I got to the top hidden compartment; I unzipped it. I don't remember putting anything in there, I never use those for fear that I may forget something.

The flap fell and out tumbled 3 envelopes and two small boxes. I opened the first box and it was a beautiful, gold bracelet with my initials carved into it. The second box contained a matching gold necklace with a heart pendant that held a picture of a 14 year old me on one side and a 15 year old Rebecca on the other when I opened it. A tear fell down my cheek.

I picked up the envelope that said, "Read Me first" and opened it to reveal a birthday card. It was for my 22nd birthday. I carefully opened it and read what Rebecca had written inside:

Wherever you are, I hope you're spending the day with a smile. I saw this necklace and thought of you. Happy birthday, my love. I miss you, Becc.

The tears were falling faster as I picked up the second envelope. It was another birthday card. I read the inside inscription as well:

Happy 23rd birthday, Laine. I hope with all my heart, you're happy and not spending this day alone. I had this bracelet made special for you and I hope someday, you'll wear it. I love you, Becc.

I picked up the last envelope, which was much larger than the first two. I opened it and dumped out the contents inside, which was a smaller envelope and a CD. I picked up the disc and looked at it before opening the envelope. It appeared to be her album, but I wasn't sure which one, because I didn't own a copy of any of her new music.