Page 15 of My Spanish Love Affair

“I will,” she promises, her smile softening. “Valencia’s not far. I’ll come and see you as soon as I can.”

With a final hug, I leave the hostel, stepping out into the warm afternoon air.

I make it to the grand station in good time. I quickly find my seat on the train once it arrives, stowing my bag overhead before settling in by the window.

The train pulls away and the city of Madrid fades into the distance, and I watch attentively as the scenery changes. I think about the people I’ve met - Sofía, Camila, Zoey, Ben - and the pieces of themselves they’ve shared with me. I think about my mum, too. She’s no doubt worried out of her mind, but cheering me on in her own way at the same time.

The train hums along the tracks, and I let out a deep breath, leaning my head against the window.

This is it. The next chapter of my story and whatever happens I’m proud of me for walking out on my cheating ex and pushing for more. If I’m not happy I’ll just move on, I need to remind myself that I’m in control here, and for the first time in a long time, I’m doing what’s best for me.

∞∞∞

Two hours later, the train slows as we approach Valencia. My excitement has been building with every passing minute, and when the station comes into view, a mix of nerves and anticipation bubbles up inside me.

The train slows to a gentle halt, and the hum of chatter fills the carriage as passengers gather their belongings. I sling my bag over my shoulder and step onto the bustling platform, my eyes adjusting to the bright sunlight streaming through the glass ceiling of the station.

Valencia’s train station is a blend of old-world charm and modern energy, and the warm Mediterranean air greets me the moment I step out. Ornate tiles line parts of the walls, and a giant clock hangs overhead, ticking steadily.

I weave through the crowd and approach the exit, and as the heavy wooden doors to the station swing open, I’m greeted by my first glimpse of the city itself.

The late January sky is a brilliant blue, and the air is warm and fragrant. There’s a busy plaza sprawling before me, and ornate buildings with colorful facades line the streets.

My lips curve at the locals wearing their winter coats. It’s twenty three degrees celsius - back home, this is our summer!

I pause for a moment, letting it all sink in.

This is my new beginning.

Shaking myself from the moment, I spot a row of taxis parked nearby. I approach the first one, the driver rolling down the window with a curious expression.

“Hola,” I say, my Spanish halting but determined. “Necesito ir... aquí.”

I pull out my phone, showing him the address of my apartment.

The driver nods and gestures for me to get in. “Vale, señorita. Suba.”

I climb into the backseat, the worn leather seat warm from the sun. My Spanish might still not be the best, but it’s certainly an improvement from when I first landed in Madrid.

As the taxi pulls away, I glance out the window, taking in the streets of Valencia as they pass me by. It has a different feel from Madrid; calmer, but no less alive.

It doesn’t take too long to arrive at my new apartment, a small, four-story building tucked away on a quiet street. I thank the driver as I exit the vehicle before the landlord - an elderly man with a warm smile - meets me at the door.

“Señorita Olivia,” he says, handing me the keys. “Bienvenida a Valencia.”

The apartment is small and traditional but incredibly charming, with terra-cotta tiles, whitewashed walls, and wooden beams across the ceiling. There’s a cosy looking sofa in the living room, a tiny kitchen with a pretty view out towards a tall church and even a small balcony that overlooks the street below.

It’s not much, but it’s mine for the next twelve months, and it’s certainly the fresh start that I wanted.

After unpacking a few essentials, I head out to stand on the balcony, soaking in the sounds of the city. I quickly video call Laura to show off my lovely view before I head out to one of the nearby bodegas to grab some essentials. It’s not the most exciting activity, but I’ve got a big day ahead of me tomorrow, so I plan on relaxing, getting to know my new apartment, and having an early night ready for my first day at work.

Chapter Seven

My nerves jangle as I clutch tightly to my handbag and walk through the school gates.

The building is modern and bright, with artwork pinned to the walls and a cheerful buzz filling the halls. The pupils don’t seem particularly interested in me as I make my way through towards the main reception, chattering amongst themselves in high-pitched voices.

Honestly, I’m thankful for the lack of attention.

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