Chapter 4

Tina gathers her family into the living room.

“Sit down everyone, I have something to tell you guys.” Tina says as her family takes a seat in front of her.

“What’s going on Christina?” Joanne asks a little worried.

“Nothing bad mom. I got into Art Institute in Philadelphia.” Tina says.

“You did? That’s great Christina I’m really proud of you.” Joanne says and stands up and gives Tina a hug.

“Thanks mom.” She replies.

“What are you going to be studying again?” Paul asks.

“Video Production.” Tina replies.

“Okay. How’s the availability of work in that area?” He asks.

“I don’t know, and I don’t care. I really want to do this, I’ve dreamt about this for so many years. I will make it, and I will get a good job when I’m done.” Tina says.

“Good. If you got that spirit about it, I believe you.” He says and gives her a smile.

Megan is being very silent. Tina looks over at her. She walks over and takes a seat next to her.

“Hey. Anything wrong?” She asks.

“Are you leaving?” Megan asks a bit sad.

“I am, but not for another month.” Tina replies.

“You just came back and now you’re leaving again.” Megan says.

“I’m sorry Megan. I’m sorry I haven’t been home to much the last few years. But I promise you that you can come visit often. As soon as Mike gets his licence, he can drive you both up to where I am and we’ll spend the weekends together. How does that sound?” Tina asks.

“Can we? Megan asks, looking first at Tina then at Michael and then at her parents.

“Sure.” Michael says.

Tina looks at Michael and thinks for a second.

“Hey Mike, if you buy me a new Mac, then the car is yours. The 17 inch wide screen laptop Macbook pro. Do we have a deal?” Tina asks.

He smiles and looks over at Paul.

“Yeah. I’ll go and buy it now.” He says.

“Not yet. Wait a month, right before I leave. There’s a but in this though. You will come and visit once a month.” Tina says. She looks up at her dad, who smiles.

“Does that sound like a deal dad?” Tina asks.