Diplomatic Affairs

Chapter 6: Parents Of Politics

A few days later, I jolted awake, feeling utterly drained and overcome by anxiety. The weight of the upcoming day bore down on me, a reminder that our parents' visit was imminent. I rubbed my eyes, attempting to shake off the remnants of sleep and gather my scattered thoughts.

Crawling out of bed, I stumbled into the living room where I discovered Ari already dressed and prepared for the day. She bustled about, assembling lunch with brisk efficiency. As I entered, she glanced at me with a teasing smirk.

"Well, well, look who's finally up," she remarked playfully. "I tried waking you earlier in the evening, but you were sound asleep."

A groan escaped me, guilt and frustration swirling together. "I think my body was just trying to get out of today," I admitted, a mixture of emotions coursing through me. "I can't believe our parents are coming today."

Ari paused, settling the knife she was using to spread mayonnaise on the bread on the counter. She turned to me, her expression growing more sympathetic. "Hey, don't stress too much," she reassured me. "It's not that big of a deal. We'll show them around the school, attend the welcome dinner, endure some cheesy family bonding activities while the press goes crazy taking photos. Before you know it, the day will be over."

"I know, but my mom's re-election campaign has been putting her through a lot," I confided, my voice tinged with worry. "I want to make her proud by representing Veridia well, but what if I mess up and become a headline for all the wrong reasons?"

Ari, calm and composed, offered a reassuring smile that immediately put me at ease. "No need to worry," she stated confidently. "Dealing with paparazzi is something we're quite accustomed to."

I sighed, the gravity of the day sinking in. "True, but it's hardly ever positive," I replied, recollecting the numerous unwelcome run-ins with persistent photographers.

Ari nodded in agreement. "You have the power to control the narrative," she advised. "Just give them something good to focus on. Oh, and perhaps spending less time around Alex might be a good precaution."

The mere mention of Alex only added to my stress. Trying to create a positive impression while his presence dominated my thoughts felt like an impossible challenge. The mounting pressure became too much, prompting me to confide in Ari. "It's just so much pressure," I confessed, my voice tinged with exasperation. "How can I possibly make a good impression when all I can think about is not screwing things up?"

Ari's knowing smile provided a glimmer of reassurance as she responded, "Perhaps you should start by getting dressed. I don't think our parents would appreciate a pajama-clad greeting."

Glancing down at my attire, I realized I was still in my sleepwear. "You're right," I acknowledged, a touch of embarrassment coloring my cheeks. "I'll be back in a moment."

She handed me a sandwich as I rushed to the bedroom. Swiftly, I showered and changed into a meticulously chosen suit and tie, leaving no detail to chance. After carefully brushing back my hair, I took a deep breath, attempting to steady my nerves before the impending encounter with our parents.

Emerging from the room, I discovered Ari waiting for me. Her gentle squeeze of my hand conveyed both support and reassurance. Just as we were about to move toward the exit, a knock at the door interrupted our steps.

Monroe and Ryder entered after. Ryder took the lead, addressing me, "Ben, your mother is here. She's waiting in the quad."

Ari and I exchanged one final glance before I gave a nod to Ryder, signaling that we were ready to leave the suite.

Stepping out with Ari and our bodyguards, the world outside was instantly awash in blinding flashes from the press cameras. The paparazzi had gathered in full force, their questions bombarding us from every angle.