The Fluffy Sofa ✔️

Date: Monday 6th September 2021

Of course I was wrong to think anything negative towards you Uncle Zane. As soon as you opened your door, the smile on your face grew bigger. You were so happy to see me. Almost as soon as you saw it was me, your arms were wrapped around my body squeezing me in a suffocating yet welcomed hug. You pulled me into your house and closed the door behind me.

As always, your house smelled of vanilla. Everything had its place. Not a thing wonky or cluttered. Absolutely perfect. I took my shoes off by the door and stood slightly awkwardly as you exclaimed how much you missed me. I asked why you left me this journal instead of just coming to see me. You replied that it's a complicated situation and that I shouldn't worry.

But what about that girl that you were following? You said you were unaware there was any girl that you were following. How do you explain the angry look on your face when I called your name? That's just what your face looks like, you said.

We entered the living room where your amazingly soft sofa sat and I couldn't help but sink myself into it. The cushions are fluffy as hell and the sofa material causes my whole body to meld into it every single time I throw myself on it. My absolute favourite thing about your house, Uncle Zane. You gave me some water like you usually do and I gulped it down both out of thirst and nerves.

Okay, so what about mum. Why is she so terrified of you whenever I just mention your name? You simply stated that you'd coincidentally had an argument at the same time she was planning on leaving dad. That's definitely possible. But you wouldn't tell me the argument. You said if mum wanted to tell me then she would but if not it'll stay between them.

I sat there for a while letting the vague, unsatisfactory answers sink in. Some tears brimmed over my eyes and before I knew it I was balling my eyes out. You scooted closer to me and held my hand. I placed my head on your chest as I snivelled like a child, and you moved my tear-soaked hair out of my face, letting your fingers dance gently in its place. I suddenly felt so tired and the last thing I remember is your lips on my neck. Or at least I think it was my neck; it might have been my cheek. I was that exhausted from the first day of school it could have been anywhere.

When I woke up I was in Fin's arms as he attempted to carry me up the many, many stairs to my flat. It turns out that I was that long at yours Uncle Zane, Fin plucked up the courage to knock on your door. There you decided that it would be easier if both of you took me home in your car. Due to mum not wanting anything to do with you, that was probably the right call. I'm so thankful for Fin. He's so sweet. I hope you feel the same, Uncle Zane! And I am so sorry for doubting you. What a shitty niece I am!

I'll make it up to you, I promise!