Invisible String

Chapter 3 -Back home

"You seem absolutely drained," my mom's voice echoes through the phone, concern evident in her tone.

"Yeah, last night was a rough one," I confess, rubbing my temples as if to ward off the lingering exhaustion.

Ever since I hit my twenties and found myself thrust into the unforgiving glare of the spotlight, sleep has been a fleeting luxury. It's like my mind refuses to switch off, constantly buzzing with thoughts and worries, especially after particularly hectic days. And last night was no exception to the rule.

"I think you should rest as soon as you get back in the morning," my mom insists, her maternal instincts kicking into high gear.

I nod in silent agreement, knowing full well that my schedule is jam-packed and that sacrificing sleep wasn't the wisest choice.

Perhaps I should give my doctor a call, see if I can up my prescription for the sleep aid medication I sometimes rely on during these sleepless nights.

"Yeah, I can't wait to finally be home for a while," I divert the conversation, hoping to lighten the mood. "It's been a whirlwind tour, and while I'm grateful for the experience, there's nothing like the comfort of home."

"I know, we're all eagerly waiting for you," my mom reassures me, her voice laced with anticipation.

"I've missed you guys so much," I admit, a pang of homesickness tugging at my heart. With my parents' busy schedules and my own demanding career, quality time with my family had become a rare commodity over the past year.

"We've missed you too, sweetheart," she replies warmly, the love in her voice palpable even through the phone.

"Genesis, it's time to board the plane," Alexa's voice interrupts our conversation, reminding me of the impending departure.

"I have to go, but I'll see you soon," I promise, a hint of excitement creeping into my voice at the thought of reuniting with my family.

"I'm so proud of you, darling," my mom's words are like a warm embrace, wrapping around me and filling me with a sense of comfort and reassurance. "Your grandparents, your father, your brother, and I are all proud of you. Now, get on that plane as fast as you can. I can't wait to hug you!"

Tears threaten to well up in my eyes at her heartfelt words. "You're making me tear up," I laugh softly, a mixture of emotions swirling within me. "Tell everyone I'll see them soon."

"Don't make this old lady cry," my mom teases, her affectionate tone bringing a smile to my lips. "See you soon, honey."

"I love you."

"Love you too," she replies before ending the call, leaving me with a bittersweet longing for home.

With a deep breath, I rise from my seat and make my way toward the private jet waiting to whisk me away. As I settle into my seat, the familiar anxiety of air travel begins to creep in.

I've never been fond of flying. Each time I find myself onboard, I can't shake the feeling that I'm hurtling toward my demise. Unfortunately, this fear has become all too familiar, given the frequency of my travels. So, before each takeoff, I dutifully swallow the calming pill prescribed by the doctor accompanying us on tour. Once airborne, I allow myself to drift into a fitful sleep, seeking solace in the temporary respite it offers.

When I awaken from my slumber, I find myself still mid-flight, with an hour left until touchdown. Resting my head against the window, I gaze out at the expanse of clouds stretching endlessly below. As a child, I used to imagine them as fluffy pillows waiting to cushion my fall, a whimsical fantasy that now feels like a distant memory.