The Life of Abby

Abby's dreams were always so vivid, so real. She could smell the fresh cut grass and the sweet scent of blooming flowers. She could feel the warm sun on her skin and the gentle breeze rustling her hair. And she could see the perfect family, smiling and happy, surrounded by the beautiful white manor. The father, with his chiseled features and piercing blue eyes, was always so kind and loving. He would scoop up the baby in his arms and twirl her around, making her giggle with delight. The mother, with her ash-blonde hair and delicate features, would smile and laugh, her eyes shining with happiness. The teenagers, the boy and girl, would ride their horses through the fields, their hair flowing in the wind. They would laugh and shout, carefree and joyful. And the baby, with her red curly hair and bright blue eyes, would coo and giggle, enjoying the attention of her family. Abby's dreams were always so real, so vivid. She could feel the happiness and love emanating from the family. She could sense the security and comfort of their home. The boy's light blue eyes sparkled like sapphires, complemented by his ash-blond hair, which framed his chiseled features perfectly. His smile could light up a room, and his athletic build hinted at a passion for sports. Everything about him seemed flawless, as if he had been crafted by a master artist. The girl, on the other hand, was a stunning contrast. Her green eyes gleamed like emeralds, shining bright with a competitive spirit. Her jet-black hair flowed in the wind, like a dark waterfall cascading down her back. The baseball cap she wore added a touch of playfulness to her features, and her naturally rosy cheeks gave her an endearing glow. She exuded confidence and determination, as if she could conquer any challenge that came her way. Abby's eyes fluttered open, and she was met with the harsh reality of her own life. She lay in bed, surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds of her small, cluttered room. The dream she had just had was still vivid in her mind, and she couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness and longing. Why couldn't her life be like that? Why couldn't she have a perfect family, a beautiful home, and a sense of security and happiness? Abby threw off her covers and got out of bed, beginning her daily routine. She got dressed in the same clothes she wore every day, a pair of worn jeans and a faded t-shirt. She brushed her long, curly brown hair and washed her face, trying to shake off the lingering sadness from her dream. As she made her way downstairs, she was greeted by the sound of arguing. Her parents were at it again, fighting over money or something else. Abby tuned them out, used to the constant bickering. She went to the kitchen to start breakfast for her siblings, Derek and Lily. Derek was 5 years old, and Lily was just a baby, 7 months old. Abby took care of them, making sure they were fed, bathed, and happy. As she cooked breakfast, Abby's mind wandered back to her dream. She couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to have a real family, one that loved and supported each other. She felt a pang of jealousy towards the people in her dream, wondering why she couldn't have that kind of life. Abby pushed the thoughts aside, focusing on the task at hand. She had to take care of her siblings, no matter what her dreams were. Abby's heart sank as she gazed upon the chaotic scene before her. She had seen this sight far too many times before, but it never got any easier. The needles and broken bottles seemed to mock her, reminding her of the harsh reality she lived in. She felt a surge of anger and helplessness wash over her, but she knew she couldn't let her emotions get the best of her. Not now, when her siblings needed her. Taking a deep breath, Abby steeled herself and began to clean up the mess. She carefully picked up the needles and placed them in a plastic container, making sure not to touch them with her bare hands. Next, she swept up the broken glass and disposed of it in the trash. As she worked, she couldn't help but think about how unfair it was that she had to do this. She was only 17, and her parents should be the ones taking care of her and her siblings, not the other way around. Once the living room was clean, Abby headed back to the kitchen to prepare bottles for Lily and get Derek dressed for the day. As she worked, she heard the sound of her parents' voices coming from their bedroom. They were arguing again, and Abby knew it was only a matter of time before things escalated. She quickly finished up her tasks and ushered Derek and Lily out of the house, hoping to get them to safety before things got worse. As they walked down the driveway, Abby pulled out her phone and dialed her grandmother's number, hoping against hope that she would answer. She needed someone to talk to, someone who could offer her some guidance and support. But as the phone rang and rang, Abby's heart sank. She was on her own, at least for now. Abby's eyes fluttered open as the bus hit a bump, and she saw the familiar sight of her school outside the window. She gathered her belongings and stepped out onto the sidewalk, taking a deep breath of the crisp morning air. As she entered the school, she spotted Kali, her best friend, waving her down. Kali rushed over, her blonde hair bouncing with each step. "Abby, how are Derek and Lily? Are they at home with your mom?" Abby filled her in on the morning's events, including Derek getting hit and her failed attempt to reach her grandmother. Kali listened attentively, her expression sympathetic. As they walked to their first class, Abby and Kali caught up on the latest gossip. Abby's mind began to wander, but she refocused as they entered the classroom. Kali took her seat in the back, flirting with her lab partner, while Abby sat quietly in the front. Just as the teacher began to lecture, a new student walked in. Abby's eyes widened as she took in his striking appearance – tall, muscular, with piercing light blue eyes and jet black hair. He introduced himself as Trystan and took the seat beside Abby, leaving her mesmerized and struggling to concentrate.