Your little hand interlocked with Natalie's as you two walked into the airport. Her soccer team — The Yellowjackets — started to make their way to the terminal to go to Nationals. Natalie let go of your hand, walking ahead. The whole team looked at you, young and ten years old. They knew you and Natalie were close, you're sisters after all. And your dad was an abusive piece of shit.

She paused in her walk, turning around. She crouched down to your height, holding your shoulders. "I've come to say goodbye." She said, her bottom lip quivering. It was an unusual sight to see Natalie so emotional. "Where are you going..?" You asked, the team coming up behind Natalie to stand with you. "Just on a little trip—" she responded, a crack in her wavering voice. She didn't want to leave you behind. Even the Coaches felt guilty for not being able to take you with them.

"Natalie..?" You squeaked, now suddenly afraid of being left alone with an alcoholic mom and an abusive dad. "Will I ever see you again..?" You asked. Natalie wiped her eyes, clearing them of any stray tears. She does not cry. Not in front of you anyways. "Sure —" she sniffled, "— Sure you will, kid." She replied.

Lottie stepped forward, always a sucker for tender moments. "Goodbyes aren't forever, you know." She said, a wobbly smile on her face. You nodded, standing up as tall as you could in your little mini version of Natalie's jersey. Her team number was even on it, her last name. Well, your guys last name. But still. It was cute. You held a little plushie of a giraffe tighter, squeezing it to calm your nerves. "Then goodbye, Natalie. I love you." You said, blinking rapidly to avoid tears.

Natalie nodded, letting go of your shoulders. "Yeah— yeah. Love you too, kid." She stood up and turned away, disappearing down the terminal. But before they fully disappeared down the tunnel to the plane, they all waved goodbye.