Twenty-Five

Rriel's point of view

I am standing on my mom's doorstep. What am I even going to say? Hey mom, I understand why you left.

I watch as Opal knocks on the door. She seems calmer. I wish I were at this moment. Hearing the door open, I swallow hard. I see a beautiful girl on the other side of the door. I recognize her from the picture.

"Hey Opal," she smiles.

" Hello," Opal grins.

" Richard is down by the beach," she tells us.

"We came to speak with you," Opal tells her.

She looks dumbfounded. She was probably wondering why. " Sure, she smiles, opening the door all the way to let us in.

Stepping through the door, I feel so edgy. We walk and sit down at the dining room table. My eyes see all the family pictures hanging on the wall. I can't help but feel hurt in a way.

"This is my friend Rriel," I hear her say.

"Well, actually her boyfriend."

Opal laughs. "It's not the time for that," she gives me a firm stare.

"Rriel, no, you can't be," my mom says.

"Your son?"