Last Flight Home

"After deciding to leave Azurea and follow Clara Miller to Northwood City, I was cast out by my parents."That girl is an orphan–what can she possibly give you? If you choose a life of hardship now, you’ll spend the rest of your life suffering! Once you walk out that door, don’t bother coming back!"I left anyway.For five years, I watched Clara rise step by step, becoming one of Northwood City’s most respected psychologists.Just as she had promised, she gave me a home.As the New Year approached, I planned to take her back to Azurea to reconcile with my parents.However, just before boarding the plane, she abandoned me again–this time for a depressed patient threatening to take his own life.She let go of my hand, her eyes full of pain."Julian Vance… he’s just like I used to be–alone, with no one to rely on. If I don’t go, he’ll jump. I’m sorry. Just this once. I’ll catch the next flight and meet you there."Then she turned and ran toward the exit without hesitation.I stood there, staring at the two plane tickets in my hand.She had saved everyone who needed redemption.Everyone… except me.Slowly, I tore up her ticket.Then I walked alone toward the security gate and turned off my phone.What Clara did not know was this:Some journeys home, once missed, are gone forever."