EMILY’S POV
As the bus made its way toward my home, I couldn't help but feel restless. I was in the middle of a class when Claire called me on my cellphone and asked me to come home. When I pressed her for more details, she simply replied in a somber tone, hinting that something unpleasant might have happened.
It was painful for me to choose between my family and Larkin. But I was tired of my parents controlling my life. Despite being capable of making my own decisions, they still refused to give me the freedom I wanted. I felt envious of my peers who were living independently. I could have done the same, but my parents wouldn't allow it. They gave me shallow reasons and excuses, but none of them seemed valid to me.
In the few days, I spent with Larkin, my heart overflowed with joy. I a
