ACCIDENTAL ACCIDENT

XXXII. Family's Visitation

The day was just like any other, until I heard a knock on the door. I opened it to find my parents standing there, their faces beaming with joy. My younger brother was standing between them, clutching a basket of fruits and a bouquet of flowers.

"Surprise!" they all exclaimed in unison. I couldn't help but laugh at their enthusiasm. It was so like them to bring a little bit of sunshine into my life, even on the most mundane of days.

We settled down in the living room, the basket of fruits and bouquet of flowers adding a splash of color to the otherwise plain room. My mother started to fuss over me, asking if I was eating well and if I was taking care of myself.

As we chatted, my brother couldn't contain his excitement any longer. "We won the competition!" he blurted out, his eyes shining with pride. My eyes widened in surprise. "Really? That's amazing! I'm so proud of you!" I exclaimed, pulling him into a hug.

"Sayang, you weren't able to watch," he said, his voice tinged with disappointment. I felt a pang of guilt. I had been so caught up in my own world that I had forgotten about their competition.

"I'm really sorry I couldn't be there," I apologized, ruffling his hair. "But I promise to make it up to you. Maybe we can celebrate your victory together?"

My brother's face lit up at the idea. "That sounds great!" he exclaimed. My parents agreed, their smiles reflecting their approval.

As my little brother's face lit up at the idea, I felt a warmth spread through me. "That sounds great!" he exclaimed, his enthusiasm infectious. My parents agreed, their smiles mirroring his excitement.

We spent the rest of the day catching up, talking about their competition, and how they had managed to clinch the victory. I listened intently, my heart swelling with pride as they recounted their journey. It was a shame I hadn't been able to witness their triumph, but hearing about it was the next best thing.

As we chatted, my mother busied herself with arranging the fruits and flowers they had brought. The aroma of the fresh fruits mingled with the scent of the flowers, filling the room with a sweet fragrance. It was a small touch of home, a reminder of simpler times.

My father, ever the practical one, started discussing plans for the future. "We need to celebrate your brother's victory properly," he declared, looking at me with a serious expression. "And we need to make sure you're taking care of yourself, Carmilla."

I nodded, appreciating his concern. "I promise, Dad, I'm doing my best."

The day passed by in a blur, filled with laughter, stories, and plans for the future. When it was time for them to leave, I felt a pang of sadness. But as I watched them walk away, the basket now empty and the bouquet of flowers in a vase, I felt a sense of gratitude.

Their visit, though unexpected, was a beautiful surprise. It reminded me of the love and support I had, and it gave me the strength to face whatever was coming. It made me realize that no matter how tough things got, I had a family who would stand by me, cheer for me, and love me unconditionally.

As I closed the door, I couldn't help but smile. My family was my strength, my guiding light. And with them by my side, I knew I could face anything. Even the Abyssal King.