The bus pulls into the station, jolting me out of my thoughts.
I gather our bags and stand up, motioning for Yara to follow.
We step off the bus, taking in the bustling airport. It feels chaotic, exciting, the cacophony of other departing travelers serenading us into the next chapter.
"Come on, let's go find our new home," I say, taking Yara's hand.
Together, we head toward the check-in desk, ready to start our new life.
Chapter 12
Alina
The terminal bursts into view as we step off the jetway, a kaleidoscope of light and sound.
Yara's hand clenches mine, her eyes round with wonder.
"Mama, is this really America?" she whispers.
I sweep my gaze over the crowds, the glowing signs, the sheer vibrancy of it all. There are American flags everywhere, the patriotic red, white and blue emblazoned on signs and decor.
I half expect to see a group of frat bros playing beer pong with red solo cups off in the distance. Or maybe an eagle or two flying past while Bruce Springsteen belts from the speakers.
"It's even brighter than I imagined, little bird."
We weave through the river of travelers, Yara sticking close to my side.
She cranes her neck, trying to take it all in. "It's just like the movies!"
My pulse quickens, my skin tingling. A new chapter for us. A chance at a life free of fear.
I squeeze Yara's hand, meeting her shining eyes with a smile. "We're really here."
She beams, skipping beside me. "Everything is so big and colorful. When can we ride in one of those yellow taxi cabs?"
A laugh bubbles up as I imagine us cruising the streets of New York. "Soon, little bird."
For a moment, I have the urge to run. To skip the part where we meet Gerald. To take Yara and just escape into this giant country and find a life just for us, maybe in a big city or just a simple, tiny town. It doesn't really matter.
But I know that's not how it works.
And Gerald is a nice man who wants to take care of us. We need him.
I try to shake off this reckless urge. It's just nerves, fear of the unknown.
Fear of past choices dictating my future.
I don't know what awaits us in this new chapter, but seeing the hope in Yara's eyes, I feel the knot in my chest loosen. We're far from the darkness now. This glittering world is ours to explore.
And I'll do anything to make it her wonderland.
Gerald is waiting for us at the arrival gate, leaning casually against a pillar. He's impeccably dressed as always, not a hair out of place.
When he sees us, his face splits into a dazzling smile.
"There are my two favorite ladies," he croons, sweeping me into a tight embrace. His cologne envelops me, subtle and expensive.
Releasing me, he reaches out a hand to shake Yara's, and she nervously reciprocates.