Family Reunion

Shayla

The moment Chris's parents walked in, a wave of self-consciousness and unease washed over me. This wasn't exactly how I imagined meeting his parents for the first time—late at night, unannounced, and after a long day. My hair was a little messy from lounging on the couch, and I was dressed in casual clothes. Not exactly the polished first impression I'd hoped to make.

Before I could even gather my thoughts, Margaret, Chris's mother, marched straight up to him, her eyes narrowed in disapproval.

"Christopher Langston, what were you thinking getting yourself hurt and not calling us? Do you have any idea how worried we've been?" Chris winced slightly as she pinched his arm, clearly caught off guard.

"Ma, I'm fine. It wasn't as bad as it sounded."