The Chief And The Captain - Chapter 21 Twenty One

I stared at myself in front of the mirror. My eyes were puffy with dark circles underneath. I looked tired, sleepless and haggard. Finals is a week away and I have the publication to think about. Today I’d announce the new editors that would continue our tradition. Looking back, I could say I was satisfied with my senior year. I was able to keep up with my position as the EIC, I was able to recruit new people with potential that I can confidently leave the publication to. Moreover, I made friends, I found a family, I found love.

I smiled at myself, despite looking tired, deep in my heart I was happy. After the week, I only had my final exam to think about, then I’d be graduating. Excited, scared, anxious, I feel all those but I know I’d be ready.

A light knock on the door snapped me back from my reverie.

“Come in.” I called.

The door slowly opened and my mother peeked. She pushed the door open after a minute and let herself in. I stared at her as she casually paced in my room. When was the last time I saw her? Was it Christmas Eve? I don’t remember. After my little accident 5 years ago, my parents have been dropping by and checking on me every now and then. I guess today would be that day. She worked at a local TV station as a news reporter and her schedule’s as crazy as it could get. It pissed the hell out of me when I was younger. Back then, if she knocked my door, I would have ignored her or shut her off. This time I let her in. Just for the sake of it.

I sat in the middle of the bed and watched my mom as she settled at the edge of the bed. She took my hand in hers. It has been so long since she held my hand. I have forgotten her scent, the feel of her touch, the sound of her voice.

“Julie told me you found a gir- boyfriend.”

The way she said the word boyfriend made me cringe, it sounded prejudiced. I looked away from her as I put up a mask to hide my disappointment. Of all people that I hoped for that would accept me, accept us..

“Yes.” I answered nonchalantly.

Her grip in my hand tightened and she let out a sigh. Her face was a mask of confusion and utter rejection. She looked at me and her eyes were cold. She shook her head.

“Bring him here. Introduce him to us.”

Us. She said us right? My face paled.

“Your father will be here tomorrow, bring your boyfriend to dinner.” She stood up and left without another word.

I felt sick to my stomach. I know that I’d have to eventually let them know about Rick but I didn’t expect it to be sooner. Not now that I have exams and club activities to think of. I decided to bring Rick here after graduation.

My hands were shaking as i propped myself up and head to the door. My mother already left for work, she’d be back tomorrow with father. The pounding in my chest was so hard I could hear them in my ears. I dragged my feet outside and walked to school