Twisted Chances

1. Nia (edited)

Copyright © 2025 FreakyHell<Freaky>

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I take a deep breath, letting the scent of my birthland wash over me.

It smells sweet, though I can't deny it's polluted. But who cares? Homeland is homeland.

After years abroad, after sleepless nights and endless textbooks, I've finally returned, MBBS degree in hand. Britain gave me the chance to chase my dream and to glimpse a culture far from my own. But deep inside, I've longed for this moment: to come back.

Right now, I'm standing at the airport, suitcase by my side, waiting for my brother.

It's been so long since I've seen him. Too long since I've seen anyone who feels like home.

"Nia! Here!" a familiar voice calls.

I scan the crowd until I spot him, grinning wide, bouquet in hand. My heart squeezes, and before I know it, I'm running into his arms.

We hug tightly, and for a second, time feels suspended. He smells like his favorite cologne. Safe. Familiar.

When we pull apart, he hands me the bouquet: red and pink roses. My favorites.

"So my sister's a doctor now, huh?" he teases, hands shoved into the back pockets of his jeans.

Hearing it from him makes me flush with pride. "Yes..." I reply softly.

"Oh, how I'm going to brag about this to everyone at the office," he says, and we both burst out laughing.

"Shall we get going? Everyone's waiting for you. Especially Uncle Josh."

Of course, Uncle Josh. He's always been proud of me, maybe because I'm the only one among the younger generation who dared to chase medicine. Even though he hates Dad, he's always loved me.

I've missed my twisted family.

The moment I step through the door at home, confetti rains down on me. Balloons, ribbons, and a cake waiting on the center table, it's all so overwhelming I almost cry.

Uncle Josh is the first to reach me, wrapping me in his arms. His embrace is strong, grounding.

And of course, Dad's jealousy flares.

"Hands off my daughter, Josh," he growls.

Josh rolls his eyes. "I won't. Go play chess with Alex or something."

"Why am I always dragged into your fights?" Uncle Alex protests, and everyone bursts out laughing.

This, this is what I've missed.

Dad takes the opportunity to tug me away from Josh and hug me himself. I melt into his arms. No one makes me feel safer than my father. No man ever could.

And maybe no man ever will. I've been hurt once. I won't allow it to happen again.

As Dad and Josh start bickering again, Aunt Jules cuts them off. "Will you two stop your couple arguments? We need Nia too."

She's everyone's favorite aunt, effortlessly witty, and her daughter Amy has clearly inherited every bit of it.

Soon, I'm pulled away by Camilla and Amy.