I was now sixteen.

I saw Avery every few months. He was thirteen, turning fourteen soon, and a lot more defiant now. He had changed a lot since he left.

I pulled my black leather jacket over my shoulders as I stood in my room. I grabbed Avery's birthday card before running out of the house. I was already late, I didn't want to miss his birthday.

I had gotten a job in a restaurant, cleaning dishes and serving customers. It wasn't great money but it was honest work. If I save up most of the money I make within a year I'll be able to rent my own home....