Four Hearts, One Home

Chapter 16

It's 31st December 2020, you guys.
Thank you for a beautiful year.
You made this year a better year for me.

Happy New Year's Eve. ❤

Thank you if you're already here.

Please do excuse the errors. Didn't edit it.

______________

When things go wrong, look ahead; that was probably Gulf's mantra for the past few days. He had enough of jerks dictating his life and being constantly reminded of how insignificant he was and be treated as an option rather than a priority. Enough is enough, he decided.

Taking advantage of the second Saturday; a holiday, he strolled into the main town and got himself some fresh air and ended up in starbucks. And just on the counter, he met the familiar, happy-go-lucky lad, Joe Halden.

"Well, well, well, Gulf" Joe called out excitedly which warmed Gulf's heart strongly. "We meet again! Have a seat." said Joe tapping on the stool beside him.

Gulf loved how Joe appreciated his existence whole-heartedly.

"It's a small world" Gulf chuckled and sat beside Joe. "So, what brings you here?"

"Well, I had to take my brothers and my sister in law to our farmhouse....but I have like an hour left."

"Sounds like a reunion"

"It is. In fact, why don't you come along? I assume weekends are holiday" Joe suggested sharply and the invitation dumbstruck Gulf. It was amazing how carefree Joe seemed.

"Thanks... But.. "

"You know what, we have like an hour. Why don't you pack up and take a trip with me? We'll be returning tomorrow night. It's more like a small family picnic." Joe continued excitedly and strangely, the idea of a picnic excited Gulf in such lonely hours.

"Joe... " Gulf could only laugh uncomfortably. He was indeed in need of fun and friends and thus, he was not strongly reluctant.

"Come on! I have a pretty cool family. And my family would be delighted to have you. Also, I'm a cool companion"

"That, I agree. Are you sure it's not going to be awkward?"

"No, not at all. I actually invite my friends over all the time."

"And you trust people this easily? I could end up robbing you off"

"Nah, you look too pure to do that" Joe chuckled patting on Gulf's shoulder gently. "Relax, Yibo, I and Mew are actually very close business partners and we trust our employees. Also, it appears to me that Mew and you know each other personally so I'm certain you're safe"

"Just make sure not to regret it later"

"Fine. So, what do you think? "

After a brief moment of thought, Gulf found himself excited about the trip. It would mean making new friends, meeting new people and getting to see new places. He desperately needed that.

Hence, without delay, he agreed willingly and the two men rushed off to pack his things.

***
Weekend with Joseph Halden was about to be fun. In about an hour, Gulf met up Kevin, who was Joe's elder brother and Kevin's pregnant wife, Danielle, who were exactly cheerful and welcoming as Joe. In addition, Joe's youngest brothers Nick and Frankie joined them. It felt like a huge gathering; except they were all family.

They first stopped outside a Large-size apartment which belonged to Mr & Mrs. Halden, Joe's parents and shifted all the package to Joe's truck and a black SUV for Kevin and his wife. Apparently, the family looked happy, well-off and most importantly, a family filled with love. And hence, Gulf ultimately felt comfortable.