Cyber Chronicles 1: Crimson's Effect

Chapter 12 : Lincoln (Past)

Dexter's mansion was a lively spectacle of chaos.

The expansive house reverberated with the hum of conversations, laughter, and the rhythmic beat of music that surged through the air. Lincoln, seasoned in attending parties, found himself in a new role—hosting. 

Navigating through the densely packed rooms, he gently nudged his way through the crowd, aiming for the spot where the other club members gathered.

Finally reaching the terrace, one of the many luxurious balconies adorning Dexter's mansion, Lincoln took in the exclusive view. This elevated space was reserved solely for club members, offering a serene escape from the clamor below. Ash stood against the railing, captivated by the panoramic mountain scenery surrounding Dexter's opulent abode. Sally, Destry, and Dexter were engaged in animated conversation at a table similar to those found in public parks, its base covered in artificial grass.

Dexter spotted Lincoln and waved him over. Lincoln reached the table and exchanged greetings with Ash, who responded with a nod. Taking a seat beside Dexter, Lincoln explained his tardiness, recounting the preparations for his parents' anniversary dinner.

"Sorry, I was late. Today is my parents' anniversary dinner, so I had to help my mum with a few things. She kept apologizing for taking my time, but I didn't mind. I kept telling her it was fine and that she always comes first," Lincoln shared with a light chuckle.

Dexter acknowledged the sentiment, "Your parents are amazing, Lin, they deserve the world." Sally and Destry nodded in agreement, their expressions echoing a mixture of understanding and longing. Destry, in particular, wore a somber look, perhaps contemplating his situation.

"I wished I was that lucky..." Destry confessed, his eyes cast downward. The unspoken gravity of his words lingered, a palpable weight in the air. Destry carried the burden of solitude, a profound loneliness that was etched into his life after losing his parents in the aftermath of a terrible accident. The depth of his experience was not lost on Lincoln, who could empathize with the lasting trauma it had inflicted on his friend. 

Surrounded by the vibrant energy of the party, Lincoln found a moment of tranquility to reflect on the day's earlier events.

"Ah, I'm done," Destry's voice echoed in his memory, the satisfaction evident as they finished the last decoration in Dexter's living room. A stretch, a smile—Destry's anticipation for the upcoming party was palpable. Lincoln, sharing the sentiment, nodded in agreement. "This party is going to be a blast," Destry had predicted, capturing the shared excitement that lingered in the air.

"Well, I should be going now; I promised I'd be home early today. We should get ready too; we can't be going to the party like this," Lincoln suggested with a chuckle. 

Destry agreed, adding, "Yeah, let's go. I should give these keys to Dexter before doing so. Catch you later!"

Exiting Dexter's house, Lincoln found his residence just a minute away. As he entered, he announced his return with a cheerful, "I'm home." 

His mother's warm greeting welcomed him, her voice reaching him from the kitchen. Rushing over, he enveloped her in a hug and placed a gentle kiss on her cheek. With a smile, he wished, "Happy Anniversary, again."

His mother's joy radiated as she expressed her gratitude. "Thank you, sweetie. I'm happy you came on time. Your dad and sister went shopping; they'll come to pick me up once they're done," she shared excitedly. Lincoln mirrored her enthusiasm, responding with an enthusiastic, "Awesome."

Realizing the ticking clock, Lincoln acknowledged his imminent party plans. "You have a party today, right?" his mother inquired. "Yes, in an hour. I need to get ready quickly," Lincoln replied, making his way to his room. A playful thought crossed his mind, and he called out, "Wait, Mum, does that mean I'm the first who wished?"