Memories

(Memories)

Elara's laughter echoed through the sunlit room as she chased her father around, her giggles blending with the sweet melodies of his violin. Her father, tall and gentle, played a lively tune, his eyes twinkling with joy. Elara stumbled, and he caught her, their laughter filling the air. He knelt down, holding her close, and gently placed the violin under her chin.

"Like this, Elara," he said, positioning her fingers on the strings. "Feel the music, let it guide you."

That was her very first lesson, and her heart swelled with happiness. She drew the bow across the strings, producing a hesitant but clear note. Her father's eyes shone with pride, and they continued playing, their music a perfect harmony of love and joy.

But then the dream faded, and Elara woke up to the present. The vivid memories dissolved into the reality of her new room, bathed in the soft glow of the morning sun. It was 7 a.m., and she was surrounded by unpacked boxes, remnants of a past life she wasn't ready to let go of.

Her father's death had taken a toll on her, and the move to this new house felt like a betrayal to his memory. Her mother, however, believed it was a necessary step toward healing. Since marrying Ken, her mother seemed happier, finding sweetness in life again. But for Elara, the loss was still a raw wound.

"Elara, how are you doing up there?" her mother's voice called from downstairs.

"I'm fine, Mom," Elara replied, though she didn't feel fine at all. She glanced at the violin case on her bed, a heavy reminder of her father. Moving to this new town meant leaving behind the house where his music once filled the air.

She walked over and gently opened the violin case. The instrument looked just as it had the last time she played it, but it felt different now—like a relic from a world that no longer existed. Taking a deep breath, she positioned it under her chin, trying to remember her father's guiding hands, the sound of their music together.

She drew the bow across the strings, but the notes that emerged were hesitant and shaky. A knock on the door startled her, and she quickly set the violin down. Her mother stepped into the room, a warm smile on her face.

"How's it going, sweetheart?" her mother asked, sitting beside her.

Elara shrugged, unable to put her feelings into words. "It's...different."

"I know it's hard," her mother said softly. "But I believe this move will be good for us. A fresh start, remember?"

Elara nodded, though she wasn't convinced. She missed their old home, her father's presence, and the familiarity of her life before the accident. But she didn't want to upset her mother, who had been through so much already.

"Why don't you take a break from unpacking and come down for breakfast?" her mother suggested. "It might help take your mind off things."

"Okay," Elara agreed, setting the violin back in its case. Her mother left, and Elara got ready for the day, preparing for her first day at a new school. She chose her best outfit from the few unpacked boxes, hoping it would give her some confidence. She glanced at the violin case and decided to take it with her, a small comfort in the sea of unfamiliarity.

Downstairs, Ken was sitting at the dining table, sipping his coffee. He looked up and smiled warmly at Elara. "Morning, Elara. How did you sleep?"

"It was okay," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

Ken nodded, understanding her reluctance. "I know it's tough, moving away from everything you've known. But I promise, you'll find your place here. It just takes time."

Elara gave a small nod, appreciating his effort. He was always kind and tried to make her feel comfortable, but it was hard to let go of the past.

Her mother entered the room with a plate of waffles drizzled with chocolate syrup and a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. "Here you go, sweetie. A special breakfast for your first day."

Elara managed a smile. "Thanks, Mom."

As they sat together, her mother and Ken tried to lighten the mood, sharing stories and making gentle jokes. Elara felt a warmth in their presence, a glimpse of the family they were trying to become.

Ken took a sip of his coffee and leaned back in his chair. "You know, Elara, when I was your age, I had to move schools too. It was really tough at first. I didn't know anyone, and everything felt so strange and different."

Elara looked up, curious despite herself. "Really? How did you deal with it?"

Ken smiled. "I found something that I loved and focused on it. For me, it was basketball. I joined the team, made friends, and slowly, things started to get better. It took time, but eventually, that new place started to feel like home."

Her mother nodded in agreement. "And it's the same for you, Elara. You have your violin. Music is a universal language, and it can help you connect with others. You never know, you might find people who share your passion."

Elara glanced at the violin case. "I hope so," she said softly.

Her mother reached out and squeezed her hand. "Just give it a chance, sweetheart. Take it one day at a time."

Ken added, "And remember, we're here for you. If you ever need to talk or if you're having a tough day, don't hesitate to come to us."

Elara felt a flicker of hope. "Thanks, Ken. Thanks, Mom."

Her mother smiled warmly. "That's my girl. Now, finish your breakfast. You don't want to be late on your first day."

Elara nodded and took a bite of her waffle, savoring the comforting taste. She knew it wouldn't be easy, but with her mother and Ken by her side, she felt a little more ready to face whatever lay ahead.

After breakfast, Elara followed Ken to the car. He was driving her to school today, and she felt a mix of nerves and anticipation. As they pulled up to the school, Ken turned to her with a reassuring smile.

"You've got this, Elara. Just be yourself."

She nodded, clutching her violin case tightly. "Thanks, Ken."

With a deep breath, she stepped out of the car and walked toward the school entrance, ready to face the unknown.

Chapter 2…New School