A Way Back To You

18| Gala

Definition: A continuation of the previous chapter. 

~~~~~~

Trigger warning: This book deals with mentions and implications of abuse, mainly physical but potentially sexual. While the latter is never descript, reader discretion is still advised.

Note: Multiple Pov's will be included in this chapter. Please keep note of which pov you are reading to prevent any confusion.

~~~~~~

With Kaiko. 6:12pm.

~~~~~~

Kaiko was proud of her son.

The entire Pavilion was decorated to perfection. On finding Fontaine, her daughter had explained to Kaiko and Will that somehow, Ant had thought to have one rather large screen fitted into the ceiling that seemed to reflect how it felt to live on the Aronnax, with water surrounding you.

He hadn't just managed that. The ambient noise, gentle sounds of ocean water, crossed with the music playing gave the feeling of genuinely being in the ocean. The scent of saltwater and flowers filled the room. Ant had truly outdone each Charity Gala ever held.

As she made her way through the room on Will's arm, Kaiko caught the back of a particularly beautiful red dress. She made mental note to try and speak with the young woman later, but found herself distracted by Jacques, who was somehow up on his feet and talking quite amicably with each guest present. "Jaq," Kaiko said, drawing his attention, "How are you feeling?"

"Quite fine, Kaiko." Jacques chuckled. "You mustn't worry so. But if you feel amendable to getting me a drink, I'd appreciate it."

Kaiko smiled and kissed his cheek. Will had gone in search of his son, and she loved Jacques. She'd happily help him. That was, after all, her nature. "Of course." She responded. He'd sat down as she went in search of something for the older man, but light blue hair and a tan suit drew her attention. Alpheus was here? She certainly hadn't expected her son to invite him.

"Alpheus, lovely to see you." Kaiko greeted, a warm smile on her face.

Alpheus startled at her voice, and she tried not to let her surprise show when she noted that his hand was entwined with Wally's. That explained a lot. "Evening, Kaiko." He responded, quickly recovering from his surprise and bending down slightly to kiss both her cheeks. "You look beautiful."

"Oh hush." Kaiko laughed. "You look well. How are you?"

"Much better than when you last saw me." Alpheus said softly. "I uh, I work in the department of child services now."

"Technically I saw you last year for Will's last one of these." Kaiko pointed out. "So, you're a care worker these days?" Kaiko asked.

"I am." He responded. "I suppose I should thank you for that. I wanted to help people, the way you helped me. So I am."

"Good on you." Kaiko smiled, genuinely. "You look so much older, I almost didn't recognise you."

"How did you recognise me?" Alpheus asked.

"Oh, the hair." Kaiko offered lightly. "It's somewhat hard to miss. And good evening to you too, Wally." She added, the younger boy an obnoxious red from obvious embarrassment. "I like your suit."

Wally was wearing a red velvet tuxedo. "Thanks, Mama Nekton." He beamed, giving her a hug too. "Sorry, um, didn't expect you to come over here."

"Don't apologise." Kaiko waved him off. "So you're looking after yourself? Both of you?"