A New Beginning: Tessa's Story

Optional sequel to Upon Wings Of Change.
(This is a version with *JUST* Tessa's POV (different from the main version, which has 3 POVs. Was my attempt to revise the slower pacing, but I'm not sure how well it worked, but since I put in the work, here it is.)

Summary:
The dragonets are flourishing; both those in the park and those helping the Kymari.
As the first dragonets to hatch in the Kymari civilization, Tessa and her brother are paving a new path as they grow up and learn how to fit into the world. New beginnings are often great things, but sometimes shadows from the distant past come calling.

Excerpt:
I braced my feet against the wall as I pulled. Suddenly, the lever swung downward. I lost my grip and tumbled backward. I landed on my side and slid across the counter. My legs and tail flailed as I tried to get to my feet or slow down-but I didn't manage it in time.
Almost in slow motion, my feet went off the counter as I slid into the air. Without thinking, my wings popped open and beat hard as I twisted, trying to turn right side up so I could fly properly.
I blinked in shock when I realized I was already flying upward. Grinning triumphantly, I beat my wings again and went back to the counter.
Pleased with my flying abilities, I proudly landed on the counter - and forgot to slow down, which promptly sent me sliding across the slippery surface, lightly colliding with the glass door. I ducked my head sheepishly, glad no one else had seen that.
My eyes locked onto the gap between the glass doors. With an eager grin, I pressed my shoulder against the edge and pushed. My feet struggled to find traction, but it was opening!
Once I pushed the door far enough, I scampered over to the cantaloupe. It was much bigger up close. I blinked slowly, trying to think about how I was going to move it. There was no way I'd be able to lift it.
It was round though. Round things could roll, right?