Ava held the letter to Michigan State in her hand, nerves began to consume her. She had been holding on to that letter, waiting for the perfect time to open it. Truth was, Ava was terrified of being rejected by Michigan and she knew that the feeling of being rejected would be the same she got from her father. A little part of her wanted to be accepted just to feel a little closer to the dad she lost, but she would never admit it to anyone.
Ava recollected herself and grabbed the letter, before heading over to Lizzie's house. The entire friend group were planning on opening their college letters all together. She quickly put on one of Chase's football crewneck and plain denim shorts before she went over to his house.
"Mom, I'm heading over to Lizzies!" Ava yelled.
"Alright honey, be safe!" Her mother yelled back from the study.
Their relationship together had immensely gotten better since the entire situation with Ava and her substitute teacher. Her mother stayed home more, and even introduced her new boyfriend to Ava. Everything was going perfect for them, which was exactly what Ava needed.
Ava stepped outside, and was met by her handsome boyfriend. Chase was leaning against his sleek black car, a white v neck hugging his muscles. His arms revealing the new tattoo sleeve he had gotten the second he graduated. His black sunglasses hung low on his nose, revealing his stunning eyes. His eyes traveling Ava's body, taking in his sweatshirt. He loved when she wore his clothes, especially his football sweatshirts.
Chase lowly whistled at his girlfriend, "How's my beautiful girlfriend?"
Ava cheeks grew hot, a new habit since dating Chase. Something that would never get old to him. "She's doing amazing, a little nervous, but fine." Ava said wiggling her letter.
"I'm sure you'll get in," he walked over to the passenger seat and opened the door for Ava, leaning in to give her a peck in the lips, "even if you didn't, we'll always find a way."
Ava looked lovingly at Chase, and squeezed his hand. She knew he meant it, and was glad to be with him. They both knew that nothing could take them from each other.
***
"NO WAY!" Lizzie yelled from her seat. She jumped up from her seat, and waved her letter. "I got into Brown!" Everyone got up from their seats, and began hugging Lizzie. So far, Kiki had gotten into NYU, Abigail and Mia decided to take a year off and go backpacking in Europe. Julian had gotten into UCLA's football program. Everyone had their paths figured out, except for Ava.
"I've got an announcement, everyone." Chase said standing up, again. Everyone looked at Ava confused, but she also didn't know. "So, UCLA's recruiter also spoke to me about a football career."
Ava raised her eyebrows, and began chewing on her fingernails. "Western Michigan also wants me on their team, and I've yet to commit to them. Just to let everyone know, before I have a meeting with him."
Ava's mouth was parted slightly, hurt filling her but she quickly masked it. "Babe that's awesome!" Ava gave him a bone crushing hug, Chase looked at her happily knowing she would understand.
"Your turn Ave." Lizzie said squeezing her arm. Ava gave her a small smile, and grabbed the letter. She opened it, and read it. Her entire world crumbling around her.
"Well?" Julian asked.
"I-" Ava's voice was beginning to fail on her, "I didn't get in.."
The entire room fell silent, and everyone sorrowfully looked at her. They all knew how important getting into Michigan was for Ava, that she was partially wanting to feel closer to her father, and was just searching for answers. Chase grabbed Ava, and pulled her to his side. His lips lingering on her forehead, hoping to make her feel better.
"I'm sorry," Mia said breaking the silence.
Ava quickly wiped a single tear that fell, and smiled. "It's fine!"
Everyone knew she wasn't okay, she had felt the same exact dread from when her father left the family. Ava was thankful the rest of the friend group had said nothing on the situation, but she couldn't ignore the pang in her chest.
"Ava, I know you're not fine.. and its' okay. Remember, what I said earlier." Chase said in her ear.
She nodded her head, and remembered Chase has told her there was always going to be a way.
But now she wasn't so sure.
***