Chapter 9

"What?" I asked when I noticed Matt not taking his eyes off me.

"You've... You've grown." He said, hesitant.

I can feel an unexplainable tension in the air. I shrugged his comment off and turned to ask how his parents are doing.

I have to keep the situation light.

"We're doing great, Ash. We are currently on a quick break from all the business stuff," his mom answered.

"And it's a good thing that your parents are here too. Made some adjustments for us, I guess?" his dad added, motioning to my parents.

"Well, we made some... But hey, family always comes first, right?" Dad playfully answered.

"And perhaps, a week earlier won't hurt." Mom added.

We continued to chat, briefly updating on everyone's whatnots. A moment later, thank God, Mia arrrived. I made a mental note to make her sit between me and Matt.

This, This is the family I grew up with.

Our parents didn't know whatever happened between me and Matt. We are in no way related by blood, but our bond as a family is as strong.

Even I, until now, cannot fully explain what happened. But whatever it was, it had been great.

"Oh my God, Ash! I missed you! Look at you," Mia exclaimed.

"I missed you too," I answered as I gave her a hug.

I signaled her to sit between me and Matt and as clever as she always is, she got it right away.