Her Hamartia

Three

Act One Part Three

HOMECOMING

The plane touches down in Flint, Michigan, and as I step off, the familiar chill of my hometown wraps around me like an old friend's embrace. I breathe in the crisp air, feeling a rush of nostalgia for what awaits me.

I quickly hailed an Uber, eager to make my way to Saginaw, just a ten-minute drive from my grandmother and Uncle Mike's home. Uncle Mike had stressed the importance of arriving early in the day, as Nana's memory tends to slip later in the evening.

As I settle into the backseat of the car, I can't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within me. The streets pass by in a blur, each familiar landmark igniting memories of childhood adventures and family gatherings. I can practically taste Nana's famous homemade apple pie already.

Uncle Mike's voice echoes in my mind, reminding me of the importance of arriving early. Nana's memory tends to slip later in the evening, he had said. I nod to myself, determined to make the most of every moment with her.

The Uber pulls up to Nana's house, and I step out onto the familiar sidewalk. The sight of the well-kept lawn and the sound of birds chirping in the trees instantly put me at ease. This is home.

As I approach the doorstep, my heart pounds with anticipation. I ring the doorbell, and wait with excitement and nervousness.

Nana opens the door, her face lighting up with surprise and joy at the sight of me. "Jalissa, oh my! What a surprise, come in, come in," she exclaims, pulling me into a tight hug.

"I missed you, Nana," I reply, returning her embrace with equal enthusiasm.

As we step into the house, Nana's eyes scan over me with a mix of fondness and curiosity. "You look so grown-up," she remarks, leading me inside. "It feels like just yesterday you were running around here."

I laugh, the sound echoing with memories of my childhood antics. "Time flies, doesn't it?"

Uncle Mike appears from the living room, a wide grin spreading across his face as he sees me. "Jalissa, it's been too long," he says, pulling me into a hug.

"It's good to see you too, Uncle Mike," I reply, returning the embrace.

We settle into the cozy living room, the scent of Nana's favorite cinnamon candles filling the air. She bustles around, making tea and setting out cookies, the warmth of her hospitality enveloping me like a familiar blanket.

We chatted, catching up on my plane ride here, how long i'd be staying, and what caused me to come up so abruptly. She bustles around, making tea and settling out drinks and fruit.

Before long, Nana turns to me with a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "You must be hungry. Let me whip up something special for you."

I start to protest, but Uncle Mike jumps in. "No need, Ma. Jalissa insists on treating us to lunch today."

My grandmother's eyes widened in surprise. "Is that so? Well, who am I to argue with that?" she says with a chuckle.

I nod eagerly. "Absolutely, Nana. I remember that really good Mexican place downtown. Let's check it out."

"Alright well let me just get ready and we can be on the way." With a smile, Nana gathers her things, and we head out the door, ready for a delicious meal and some quality family time.

As we walk through the bustling streets, the vibrant sights and sounds of the city awaken memories of my youth. The familiar storefronts and busy sidewalks fill me with a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of carefree days spent exploring with friends.