Wave to the Sky (Omegaverse)

Chapter 11: Part-time Job

After a short trip, we arrived at the park, heading straight to the children's area. The scene was bustling with activity, filled with the sounds of laughter and playful shouts.

"Now, go and make friends," I instructed Emery. "And be careful. Remember the rules?"

"No running," he replied.

"Good. You can go now and play."

I watched him dive into the fun, reminiscent of my own childhood visits to this park with my mom. Dad was never interested in joining us. Memories flooded back, tinged with a hint of bitterness. The day he casted me out of our home, like unwanted baggage, is etched vividly in my mind. He'd arrived with another woman and her children, claiming he wanted a fresh start without me.

Am I mad? Do I hate him?

Absolutely not.

I despise him. The day he severed our ties, I resolved that I no longer had a father. To this day, if someone asks about him, I have only one answer: he's dead. I vowed never to become a parent my children would loathe, to shower them with love and understanding.

Watching Emery play, I reflected on this resolve. After an hour, I approached him.

"Emery, it's time to go," I informed him.

"Aww! So soon?!" he protested.

"I know you're still having fun, but we need to head back," I explained. "We can come back another time. Don't you want some ice cream?"

"I do!" he exclaimed enthusiastically.

"Shall we?"

"Okay."

"Now, say goodbye to your friends," I instructed. Once he bid his farewells, he joined me, taking my offered hand. "Let's find an ice cream cart." We strolled through the park, eventually spotting one.

"What kind of ice cream would you like?" I asked.

"I want chocolate ice cream!" he replied eagerly. We purchased his treat and made our way home, savoring the sweetness as we walked.

After a week had passed...

"Are you ready?" Arthur asked as we met at the downtown bar.

"That's why I'm here," I replied.

"Come. I'll introduce you to my boss," he said, leading me inside. The bar was moderately occupied, a mix of customers and potential job seekers like myself. "Sir Jason!" Arthur called out to the person behind the counter, who exudes an air of being an Alpha. But what was someone like him doing in a place like this? Well, it wasn't my place to question. Sir Jason turned towards us. "Arthur! What can I do for you?"

"I want you to meet my friend, Loony," Arthur said. "He's the one I mentioned."

"Oh, the artist?"

"Yes, that's him," Arthur confirmed.

"Hi, it's nice to finally meet you," Jason said, extending his hand.

"The pleasure's all mine, Sir," I replied, shaking his hand firmly.

"Arthur has spoken highly of you."

"Really? I wonder what he said."

"He mentioned your talent as an artist," Jason said. "The bar's owner plans to renovate the interior, and I suggested commissioning you for some wall paintings."

"That would be fantastic," I said.

"Also, Troy, one of our waiters, will be leaving soon. Since you're looking for work, would you be interested in filling his position?"