Lily's P.O.V.

As I walk through the crowded Heathrow airport, I don't even have enough time to let it all sink in. I push my way past the crowds of travellers, looking for a sign holding up my name. It is currently September 8th and I still can't believe I actually went through with this whole idea. It has been my dream to travel the world, but I never thought I'd actually be brave enough to do it. As much as I wanted to explore Europe and spend a little bit of time in each big city, I knew I wouldn't ever have enough money to do that, so when I came across a program called SWAP, I knew this was my one chance. Instead of renting out a shared flat like in my dream, I will be living in a family home. The son of this family, who I believe is named Harry, will now be living in my home, in New York City. I was really hesitant with this whole exchange, as I wouldn't be home to witness how my family would treat the foreign boy. I know absolutely nothing about Harry, which made me even more hesitant since we didn't contact each other before the move, but that's probably because I don't have a Facebook, or anything quite similar.

My name is Lily Everson and I will be turning nineteen in just a few weeks. I wanted to spend my birthday back at home, but September 8th is what worked for this Harry boy, and sharing my room with him didn't sound ideal so I agreed to leave early. What I'm most worried about is making friends in this new city. I have plenty of friends back home, but that's because I grew up with most of them and now that I'm extremely socially awkward, it doesn't help. I enjoy reading and listening to music, and although I may sound like a nerd, I can promise you that I do own a laptop and a cellphone. I just prefer being independent as I've learned you cannot rely on anybody.

My fingers twiddle with the strap of my Canon camera that hangs from my neck, nervous because these thoughts that are flooding my mind are finally catching up with me. As I continue to dodge through people, I see two women standing side by side holding up a sign that reads my name, followed by my flight number. A nervous smile makes it's way to my lips as I'm about to meet the family I will be staying with for a full year. As I make my way towards them, the older looking woman who I'm assuming is the mother, engulfs me in a tight hug.

"You must be Lily!" Her sweet accented voice sings in my ears, washing all of my worries away. "I'm Anne, this is Gemma, my daughter." Both of their smiles are wide, dimples indenting each of their cheeks.

"It's nice to meet you," Gemma smiles, her bright green eyes dancing as she engulfs me into a hug next. "It's nice to finally have another girl around here." She laughs, causing me to laugh as well.

"Well, as you know, we live in London now," Anne speaks. "We're still getting used to it ourselves." She smiles, her entire presence calming my nerves.

"You haven't always lived in London?" I ask politely, yet slightly confused.

I watch as Gemma shakes her head, her brown hair falling with each nod. "No, Harry's always wanted to live in the city, so after years of complaining we finally made the move." She smiles a warming smile.

"I guess that makes sense as to why he's in New York City now," I smile, causing the two women to laugh in agreement.

As we walk towards the exit to what I assume to be an awaiting car, I finally take in everything around me. The sound of my suitcase rolling behind me zones out, as I take in my surroundings. I'm here, I finally did it. I am in the one city that has such an old beauty, exciting accents, small tea shops, and loads of new books waiting for me. I am finally living my dream.

Notes

Hi guys! So I was trying to fall asleep last night when this story idea came to mind! I am really, really excited about it. It would mean the world if you could let me know what you guys think of it? Should I continue it, or should I delete it? I really want to know if you guys are as intrigued as I am! Love you all, please subscribe and rate!