RESTLESS HEARTS

CHAPTER 35

•SHAWN•

I never thought I'd find myself back in the spotlight, facing a sea of cameras and reporters from all corners of the country. My parents, in their own way, decided to broadcast my return to the world, claiming it was to dispel the rumors of my demise that had spread far and wide, even among them. But deep down, I knew it was more about showcasing our family's supposed perfection and the reunion of the Falcons.

Getting back into suits wasn't my favorite thing. I missed my comfortable casuals, especially the shirt Jules had given me on that day we met. I couldn't help but reminisce about her, wondering where she was. When we said our goodbyes at the airport, she promised to call, but I hadn't heard from her yet.

Despite the mounting concern, I assured myself that she was okay. I was Shawn Falcon, after all. I had the means to find her, but I respected her enough to wait for her call.

Suddenly, my father's voice boomed from the microphone, bringing my attention back to the present.

"I believe my son would like to say a few words," he announced.

All eyes turned to me, and I summoned a smile, my confidence returning. I never anticipated moments like these, but I had the wit and confidence to handle them.

Straightening my tie, I stood up and made my way to the podium, exchanging smiles and a quick hug with my father. Facing the eager crowd and the barrage of flashing cameras, I took a moment, then grinned.

"Thank you ladies and gentlemen for being here. I'm Shawn Falcon. It's good to be back."

OoO

The room was only filled with the soft clinking of cutlery and glasses. The silence in the dining room weighed heavier than the tension itself. For the past hour and a half, nobody had uttered a word or attempted to strike up a conversation.

Everyone around me was acting so awkward, it was almost amusing to watch. I hadn't vanished and returned with a new face or anything. I was still me, looking the same and acting the same. Yet, everyone treated me like a stranger, as if I had suddenly become a part of the family.

If anyone should be surprised, it should have been me. Surprised at how much my sisters had changed. Something was different about them, whether it was their personality, behavior, or demeanor, I couldn't quite put my finger on it.

But they had changed, in a good way, at least.

My parents, on the other hand, remained unchanged. Dad still wore that stern expression, and Mom still behaved the same way. However, her happiness and excitement at my return seemed to have reached new heights since we left the airport.

I didn't blame them, though. I wouldn't know how to act around someone I thought was dead a year ago either. But I wouldn't go overboard with special treatment and attention, unlike these three annoying girls who were fussing over me now.

"Shawn, try the garlic bread. I know it's your favorite....or what used to be your favorite. Chef Pierre flew in from Paris this morning to make it for you," Shay said.

I stared at her for a moment before forcing a small smile and agreeing to try the garlic bread, for her sake at least. My appetite had vanished a long time ago.

"More wine, Shawn? I bought this new brand yesterday; it's quite popular these days. I thought you might like it," Shanelle suggested.

I was surprised but managed a grateful smile before nodding for her to pour more wine in my glass.

"You've lost so much weight. You really need to eat a lot to get back into shape," Mom chimed in, piling more food onto my plate.

"Mom, I'm fine. I'm really not that hungry."

"Look at your face, your cheekbones are poking out. Try some of this salmon. And some salad would do you good too."

"Mom-"

"You need to eat, whether you like it or not. We need to get you back into shape. Your gym membership never got canceled; maybe you should visit your fitness trainer soon and get back into your routine."

I couldn't believe what was happening. Does she ever stop?

"Mom, I-"

"More wine, darling? Here, let me get it for you."

"Stop!" The word burst out of me, shocking everyone at the table.

I took a deep breath and looked at each of them.

"I'm fine, okay? You have to stop treating me like I'm sick and need to be taken care of. I appreciate that you're trying to make me feel at home again, but there's no need for all this special attention. I don't need it, and I don't want it either. I'm okay on my own. So, can everyone just calm down and chill for a moment?"

Silence fell over the room as they all stared at me, wearing the same confused and surprised expressions. My outburst clearly caught them off guard, but they needed to get used to it. I was done pretending to be okay when I wasn't. I could express my feelings to anyone I wanted, regardless of who they were.

Laughter suddenly erupted from the end of the table. It started as a small giggle before growing into an amused chuckle. We all turned to see Shelby smiling. I was the one surprised now.

She lifted her glass to her lips, but before taking a sip, she looked at me. A playful smile played on her lips, and then she raised her glass toward me.

"Now that's the Shawn I know. I was wondering when you'd finally snap out of it. It's good to have you back."

She took a sip of her wine without breaking eye contact. I picked up my glass and reciprocated her gesture with a genuine smile.