1 Chapter 1 The Scholarship

Henry awoke in his cozy bed, stretching his body and letting out a hearty yawn. Glancing at the clock, he noted that it was 6:30 am. "Time to freshen up," Henry declared.

As the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Adams, Henry, a seventeen-year-old, resided with his family in the vibrant city of New York. Tomorrow marked an important day for Henry as he had been awarded a scholarship to Haron College in Drill City, prompting his departure from home.

Henry's notable contributions in school, coupled with his striking looks and intelligence, earned him popularity among his peers. With his short brown hair, captivating brown eyes, average height and build, and a visage that could captivate any heart, Henry owed his good fortune to the combined traits of his parents.

Financially, Henry's family enjoyed a comfortable status, ensuring that monetary concerns were rarely on his mind.

"Good morning, Mom," Henry greeted his mother warmly.

"Morning, Henry. Did you sleep well?" his mother inquired.

"It was wonderful, Mom," Henry replied, a smile gracing his face.

"Great to hear. Just make sure you're fully prepared since you'll be leaving first thing tomorrow morning, no excuses," his mother reminded him.

Chuckling softly, Henry playfully added, "Deep down, I know you'll miss me, Mom."

A tender smile formed on his mother's face as she held Henry's arms, gazing into his eyes. "I love you, my dear son," she whispered, tears welling up in her eyes. They shared a heartfelt hug before joining the rest of the family for breakfast.

"Good morning, Dad," Henry greeted his father as he entered the dining area.

"Wow, Mom, this is my favorite dish," Henry exclaimed, his eyes lighting up at the sight.

"Indeed, Henry. It's also my favorite," his father replied with a smile.

"I know, Dad, but somehow it feels like it was made just for me," Henry remarked, glancing affectionately at his mother. The family shared laughter and savored their meal together.

"Come on, Henry, we should get going. I'm taking you and Meddy to the park," Henry's dad announced, a twinkle in his eyes.

"Oh, the park again," Meddy pouted playfully.

"Yes, my love, but this time it'll be different. I won't be there, so you two can spend the whole day together," her father explained, trying to appease her.

"Daddy, I love it that way," Meddy replied with a bright smile.

After breakfast, Henry's dad drove them to the park. "We've arrived. Enjoy yourselves, and I'll be back soon to pick you both up. Remember, Henry, take care of your sister," he advised.

"Don't worry, Dad, I will," Henry reassured him.

As Meddy ran off to join her friends playing in the park, Henry found a peaceful spot and sat on a wooden chair. While observing the families enjoying their time together, he suddenly heard his name being called.

Turning his head, he saw Swift, his childhood friend, walking towards him. Swift was a beautiful young girl with a warm smile and a graceful presence.

"Hey, Swift," Henry greeted her with genuine delight.

"Hey, Hen, how have you been?" Swift inquired.

"I'm doing great. It's been a few weeks since we left high school, and you look amazing," Henry replied, his voice filled with appreciation. "And I must say, I prefer calling you Swift instead of Sharon. You know I promised to tease anyone who calls me that name, so you're the exception among the sheep," he playfully teased.

The two friends laughed together, reminiscing about their shared memories. They shared a moment, their eyes briefly locked onto each other's lips, before Swift, feeling bashful, looked away.

"Hey, I want to show you a new game. But before that, let's grab some ice cream," Swift suggested, reaching out for Henry's hand and leading him towards an ice cream truck.

"Oh no, my mom is here to pick me up," Swift lamented, her disappointment evident.

Drawing closer to Henry, she embraced him tightly, whispering in his ear, "You're the best, Henry. You've made my day." Henry reciprocated the hug, feeling a sense of warmth and contentment. He watched as Swift walked towards the car, waving goodbye with a smile.

A few minutes later, Henry's dad honked the car horn, signaling their departure from the park. Meddy swiftly ran to join them, and they all embarked on the journey back home.

"Thanks, Dad. I think Henry and I had a lovely day," Meddy expressed her gratitude.

"It's always a joy to see both of you spending time together," his dad remarked, beaming with happiness.

"Guess what, Dad? Henry spent the day with Swift alone!" Meddy excitedly exclaimed.

"Wow! My son is growing up, and love seems to be in the air," his dad chuckled, sharing in their laughter as they drove home smoothly.

Upon returning, Henry and Meddy greeted their mother with warmth and affection.

"Good evening, Mom," they both said in unison.

"Welcome back. How was your day? I hope you enjoyed the park," Henry's mom asked, her eyes filled with curiosity.

"Yes, Mom, it went well," Henry replied, his smile indicating his satisfaction. Turning to Meddy, he asked, "And how was your day, Meddy?"

"Mom, my day was amazing. Henry was with Swift, the love of his life," Meddy playfully revealed.

Henry interjected, his face blushing slightly, "Mom, we're just friends. Meddy loves to tease."

"Okay, Henry, if you say so," his mom responded, a glimmer of amusement in her eyes.

As they gathered around the dining table for dinner, Meddy's words lingered in the air. Henry's mom, wearing a tender smile, spoke up, "Tonight, we have a special treat. I've prepared your favorite fruit mix since it's your last dinner with us before you leave for college. Let's savor the moment and enjoy."

"Wow, Mom, you're the best. Thank you so much," Henry expressed his gratitude, his smile radiant.

After saying their prayers, they enjoyed their meal, relishing the flavors and indulging in lively conversation.

"Goodnight, Mom and Dad. I'm going to bed," Henry announced, bidding his parents farewell as he retired to his room, ready to embrace the adventures that awaited him.