"Have you looked into those online courses yet? You don't need to leave!"
Donaldathi
mom I’ve been considering it but I can’t do online courses and I need to get out of the house
grabs Donaldathi's hand, her eyes pleading But why, Don? Look at me! You can't just abandon this place. It's not just a house, it's your home.
Donaldathi
I’m getting accepted to a few schools
rushes over to Donaldathi No way! You're applying to colleges? Oh my God, Don! Why didn't you tell me before? starts pacing back and forth
Donaldathi
because I just got accepted last night
takes a deep breath, trying to calm down Oh, Don, you should have told me sooner! We need to start packing! And what about the application fees?
Donaldathi
already took care of it
grabs Donaldathi's shoulders, her voice rising Don, we need to talk about this! How could you make such a big decision without consulting me first?
Donaldathi
because I wanted to surprise you
pauses, her expression softening Surprise me? Is that really what this is about? reaches out and gently touches Donaldathi's face
Donaldathi
yeah
smiles mischievously Well, you've certainly surprised me, kiddo! But now that I know, we can plan everything together.
Donaldathi
yeah so I’m going to head back to my room to pack
grabs Donaldathi's arm Hold on, Don! We're gonna need more than a duffel bag for this. Let's get you some packing boxes and start organizing everything.
Donaldathi
yeah ok
rushes to the garage, rummaging through the storage closet Alright, Don, we need to gather all those boxes and bubble wrap we have.
Donaldathi
mom, I only need one box
rolls her eyes playfully One box? Oh no, no, no, Don! You think one box is gonna cut it? We gotta pack like we're moving to another continent!
Donaldathi
no we’re not
laughs Oh, honey, we might as well be moving to another continent if you're heading off to college!
Donaldathi
sighs I’m attending school online so it’s really not that big of a deal
Despite their efforts, Donaldathi ends up feeling overwhelmed by the packing process, leading to a heated argument between them and Linda.
Donaldathi
you don’t understand I’m only going to school online and I won’t even have to leave the city
throws her hands up in exasperation Oh, Don, I get it! Online school, staying in the city - it's not that big of a deal, you say!
Donaldathi
yeah, not a big deal
frustratedly waves her hands Not a big deal? Don, this is a BIG deal! You're leaving the nest, honey! This is a life-changing transition!
Donaldathi
it’s just college
paces back and forth, her voice filled with frustration Just college? Just college?
Donaldathi
yeah
stops pacing, pointing a finger at Donaldathi Just college?! You think just college is simple?!
Donaldathi
yeah
grabs Donaldathi by the shoulders, her voice stern No, Don! You don't understand the enormity of this transition! You're not just embarking on a academic journey; you're stepping into independence!
Donaldathi
ok mom calm down
calms down slightly, her voice softens Calm down? How can I calm down, Don?
Donaldathi
idk
softly Look, I'm sorry for getting so worked up. I just... I don't want to lose you, Don.
Donaldathi
yeah I’m only going to school online remember
leans in closer, her voice filled with concern I know, I know, Don. It's just...
Donaldathi
idk
gently takes Donaldathi's hand It's just that... our home has always been our sanctuary, our safe haven. And now, you're planning to leave.
Donaldathi
yeah
pauses, searching for the right words Don, I understand your desire for independence. But can't you see that this home, this family, needs you just as much?
Donaldathi
hmm ok then
smiles softly Thank you, Don. I know it's not easy for you, but sometimes we have to put others' needs before our own.
Donaldathi
yeah, ok
pulls Donaldathi into a warm embrace I'm proud of you, Don. You're growing up to be responsible and caring.