Summer Freedom
Summer holidays had just begun, and I was at home, completely carefree, not a single thought about school, exams, or assignments. The long, lazy days stretched ahead, and you could usually find me either sprawled across the living room couch, glued to the television, or tucked away in my room, endlessly scrolling through my phone. Life felt wonderfully simple, and I couldn’t have been happier.
However, one afternoon, while I was laughing at a comedy show on television, my parents walked into the living room with unusually serious expressions. They told me they had to travel abroad for an important office assignment — something I knew nothing about.
At first, excitement rushed through me. I assumed I would be going with them, and I had already begun imagining the adventure. But my excitement vanished the moment they explained that only the two of them would be leaving.
I would be staying behind — alone .
The smile faded from my face. My heart sank, my expression turned to fear, and all the colour drained from my face. Suddenly, the house that had always felt warm and familiar seemed strangely quiet.
“But… you know it isn’t safe for me to stay here alone, right?” I asked, my voice trembling. “You both know our neighbourhood — actually, this entire city — isn’t exactly the safest place. And I don’t even know how long you’ll be gone.”
Mum gave me a reassuring smile. “Don’t worry,” she said gently. “I’ve already arranged for a nanny to stay with you. She’ll take good care of you, and we’ll only be away for five days. You’ll be absolutely fine.
“You’re going… to — “
Before I could finish my sentence, Mum had already hurried upstairs to pack the last of her things.
I slowly turned to Dad, hoping he’d say something — anything — to change her mind. Instead, he simply lowered his head with a quiet sigh.
That was all the answer I needed.
I had no choice.
They were leaving today.
