WebNovels

Chapter 11 - The Night That Felt Like Home.

When Sylvian got home, he remembered that his parents would be coming back in about two hours and now his stomach had tied itself in a twist, not a bad twist either, more of a good twist, nearly with the anxious connotation. It was like butterfly feelings in your stomach when you have just realized you have not seen your parents in over a month. So much had transpired since he had seen them last, and he had so many things to say to his parents. Still, would he ever said enough?

Just as he was deciding whether or not to take another shower or just flop on the couch, there was Auntie. Her voice was warm and easy and perhaps even very excited underneath it all.

"Okay, get ready, Sylvian." she said. "I will send you the address, but we are doing dinner tonight, all of us!"

He didn't even think about it. Seconds later, he had pulled off his shirt and slipped a crisp white collared shirt on over his thin frame. The sleeves were maybe a little wrinkled, but, honestly there was nothing to do about it, the shirt was on. On top of that, he put on a black jacket, mostly to combat the chill that may have taken over the evening air, as he thought they may be eating outside, and holding onto that weather for just long enough to have dinner. Then, he simply pulled on a pair of black sweatpants over the whole thing. It was not like there was a fashion statement being made, it was all for comfort.

The Uber journey was uneventful, just the radio playing and the blurry lights of the city outside of his window. He reclined and envisioned what his parents' faces would be. What if they aged? What if they did not notice how different he appeared? 

After arriving to Los Angeles, the first to sprint into his arms would be his aunt. They traveled with gifts–little thoughtful gifts–for Sylvian and his aunt. The nanny who cared for him for the longest duration also received a gift accompanied by a gracious 'thank you'. She appeared to appreciate it politely, replied, and exited shortly thereafter; her work was completed and was well-deserved.

The four of them found themselves seated around a polished wooden table in the restaurant, with food arriving out of the kitchen a dish at a time, as laughter and chatter flowed from the table just as freely. His father was engaging everyone with the stories of their trip, his mother asked him for a report on Sylvian's studies, and his aunt made a mild tease that got him laughing in ways he hadn't in a long time.

He made a conscious effort to take his time eating and enjoy the food and being amongst family. He realized just how much he missed this, the sense of belonging, the notion of being someone's son, and being someone's nephew. Outside there were strangers, inside he was home.

Dulcis in fundo. Dessert arrived, and in nearly an instant it was ten when they finished. On the walk out of the restaurant, he was tired, but was happy. As they were saying goodbye, his aunt squeezed him tightly and promised to see him soon, and his parents kissed him goodnight gently, wrapped in love.

However, as soon as Sylvian plopped back onto his bed, fatigue overtook him. It had been a long and emotional day, full of highs and lows and multiple reunions. But as he laid in the silence before the shivering that signaled sleep took over, he felt the tiny stirrings of peace.

For the first time in ages, he did not feel lonely.

More Chapters