It was a 3-hour ride from Northfield to New York City. Dad and I made little talk during the ride.

“You excited about moving?” He asked, attempting to make me more comfortable.
“I guess so. But I’m going to miss everything in Northfield.” That was one of the longest things I have said to him since I met him.

“I know what you mean. Look Jayne, I’m sorry that this was so sudden, but you didn’t really have any other choice.”
“It’s okay, Dad. Really. I’m actually really excited to start a new life.” The words came out, but they didn’t seem like mine. My throat was dry, and I had a hard time saying anything else.

I stared out the window as the outside world was flying by as we drove along.
“Well, I’m very happy to see you again, Jayne.” He said.
I didn’t make any eye contact. Instead, I rolled my eyes, and just continued staring out the window. I’m pretty sure that he didn’t see that, but part of me felt him eyeing me out of the corner of his eye.

“So, tell me Jayne, do you like to play sports?” Dad asked me.

“Yeah. They’re fun.” I replied.

“Oh, that’s good. Jacob Ellis Middle School has some sports teams. Might fit into one of them. What sports do you play?”

“Mostly soccer and basketball. I like running track, and I play softball during the spring, too.” I liked talking about myself. He seemed pretty interested, too.

“Oh, good. The school needs some soccer players. They also are desperate for some guards in basketball. You a guard?”

I was surprised of how much he was talking to me.
“Yeah, I am. I play the 1.”

“Good. Coach Greenstein is lucky you’re coming.”

This time, I was the one smiling first. Maybe this won’t be so bad after all.