An Encounter for a Lifetime

Chapter 21

After a few days, Kanan found himself back home. When last did he venture away from his familiar sanctuary for long?

His sore throat had subsided, releasing him from the discomfort it had caused. He was in the kitchen with Ayana, bustling about preparing dinner, while Kanan awaited the opportunity to get a taste before it was complete.

"Why did you have to call Mom and Dad? It wasn't anything serious. Now, they're rushing down here." Kanan said, a bit frustrated. He ventured to the living room. In his hand, he clutched a piece of tonight's dinner Ayana gave him after much convincing.

Kaelan asked him for a bite. Kanan couldn't help but sigh at the familiar sibling dynamic. Whatever belonged to him automatically became Kaelan's, whether clothes or food. With a sigh, he handed over a piece to him. "It was serious. You haven't had one in forever. I was worried." Kaelan said, concern evident in his voice.

"I have to agree," Ayana added softly, understanding Kaelan's concerns. "After everything that's happened, it's hard not to worry." She expressed, remembering the shared experience they carried together. As Kanan listened to their words, he felt gratitude towards them, one that he would always talk about proudly. Ayana had become a vital part of their family, seamlessly blending into their lives. Having grown up with her mother, she found a second family in them, and they embraced her wholeheartedly as her mother did to them. Her presence brought a sense of stability to Kaelan, something Kanan couldn't do despite their closeness.

Kanan understood that. He appreciated how worried they were over him. It showed how much they cared, but he hated to worry them. "I'm fine," Kanan kept reassuring them. "Still, it would be nice to see Mom and Dad, but not under the circumstances that they'll rush here in a panic." He hated the thought of causing his parents unnecessary distress, even if he missed them.

"It is what it is," Kaelan replied, acknowledging the situation for what it was. "How are things between you and Nathaniel after everything?"

"It's been going great," Kanan replied, a smile gracing his lips as he thought of Nathaniel. "We are deeply in love," He added, a soft chuckle escaping.

"Truly, madly deeply, I am," Kaelan began singing.

"Foolishly, completely falling," Ayana joined in.

"Cut it out," Kanan interjected playfully. Their impromptu duet brought a sense of lightness to the moment.

"We're happy for you," Ayana said sincerely, her eyes reflecting genuine happiness for him. "Shoot, I ran out of ketchup," She suddenly realized, a hint of frustration in her voice.

"I'll go get it," Kanan volunteered, seizing the opportunity to excuse himself from the teasing.

"I'll go," Kaelan stood up. "These last few days have been rough, haven't they? Stay put," He extended his hand. "Car keys,"

"Why do you need the car keys?" Kanan questioned, puzzled by Kaelan's request. All the stores were within walking distance, and a five-minute walk was all it took to reach them. There was no need for the car, as far as Kanan could see.

"I'm going to get ketchup," Kaelan responded, unfazed by Kanan's skepticism.

"At least try coming up with a better excuse," Kanan reluctantly handed him the keys. "Don't go causing any trouble. You've been surprisingly well-behaved during this incident." Kanan said, knowing his brother had a mischievous streak, but trusted him to behave responsibly.

"I won't take long. I'm no longer that hot-tempered kid," Kaelan assured Kanan with a grin. As he left, closing the door behind him, he couldn't resist adding, "Maybe,"