After The Storm

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A little later, as Ammielle, Cassidy, and Uncle Mike drove towards the airport, the atmosphere in the car grew increasingly tense. The earlier comfort of her banter with Alexa had faded, leaving Ammielle feeling on edge. Cassidy, sensing her sister's unease, fidgeted with her phone, casting furtive glances at Ammielle. Uncle Mike, usually a chatterbox during drives, sensed the tension and kept his focus on the road, the silence stretching uncomfortably between them.

Ammielle cleared her throat, attempting to break the awkward silence. "So, Cass, you all set for your trip?"

Cassidy nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "Yeah, I think so. Just nervous, you know?"

Ammielle replied, her tone softer than usual. "But you'll be fine. "

Cassidy smiled weakly, appreciating the reassurance but still visibly anxious. Uncle Mike glanced at the rearview mirror, his eyes briefly meeting Ammielle's, a silent question in his gaze.

"Uncle Mike, you think you can take the scenic route?" Ammielle asked, trying to lighten the mood. "Might help Cass relax a bit."

Uncle Mike chuckled, a hint of relief in his voice. "Sure thing, kiddo. Anything to make the trip a bit more pleasant."

As they veered onto a quieter, tree-lined road, the tension eased slightly, but a lingering awkwardness remained. Ammielle wished she could do more to comfort Cassidy, but the emotional walls she had built around herself made it difficult to express her feelings openly.

Cassidy broke the silence again, her voice trembling. "Ammie, I'm gonna miss you."

Ammielle's heart ached at her sister's words. She reached over and squeezed Cassidy's hand. "You're gonna do amazing things."

Cassidy nodded, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Thanks, Ammie. That means a lot."

Uncle Mike cleared his throat, his voice gentle. "Facetime Aunt Mae often. She'll miss you on weekends."

The rest of the drive passed in relative silence, the earlier tension replaced by a shared sense of anticipation and bittersweet emotions.

When they finally arrived, Uncle Mike helped with Cassidy's luggage while Ammielle stood by, watching her sister with a mixture of pride and sadness. Cassidy turned to her, a brave smile on her face. "I'll call you as soon as I land."

Ammielle nodded, "You better. Take care, Cass."

Cassidy attempted to hug her, then reluctantly stopped herself. With one last wave, she headed towards the security checkpoint, disappearing into the crowd of travelers.

Ammielle and Uncle Mike stood there for a moment, watching her go. Uncle Mike placed a comforting hand on Ammielle's shoulder. "She'll be alright, Yel. You both will."

Ammielle nodded, taking a deep breath to steady herself. "I know, Uncle."

Uncle Mike gave her a reassuring smile. "You've done a great job looking out for her. Now it's her turn."

As they headed back to the car, the earlier tension replaced by a sense of quiet resolve, Ammielle couldn't help but think of Alexa. Maybe, just maybe, she could let down her walls a bit and allow herself to lean on others too.

"Yel, we will head home for dinner."

Ammielle nodded in response.

"I was thinking if you want to move in with us so we can look after each other. It is closer to university and Ahia can tag along with you." Mike said convincingly.

"Thank you, Uncle, but I guess I'll stay at South Drive. It's closer to the rentals. I can still pick up Ahia for school."

"We need to convince your Aunt Mae if you want it that way. Ever since you got here, she wanted keep an eye on you."

Ammielle smiled in response at the rearview mirror.

When they reached Mike's house, Ahia and Mae welcomed Ammielle with a warm hug. This was the third time she had visited, but each time she was struck by the home's inviting charm.

Mike's house was a two-story blue-painted structure that stood out in the neighborhood. Its exterior boasted clean lines and large, energy-efficient windows that allowed natural light to flood the interior. The house's modern design was softened by a meticulously maintained front garden, filled with an array of vibrant flowers and neatly trimmed hedges. A cobblestone path led up to the front door, framed by a quaint porch with comfortable seating and a few potted plants, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

"How have you been so far, hun? Ever since you moved to town, you barely visit me. You know how lonely it is in here," Mae said in a sulking tone.

"Mom, as if you don't have children," Ahia whined, rolling her eyes.

"The Airbnb in South Drive was never empty, Auntie. And I had myself settled around the city. I don't want to burden you and Uncle, you know," Ammielle replied, trying to reassure her.

"You are like my own since I left Thailand. If I hadn't given birth to that annoying brat beside you, I would've asked my sister to take you with me when we left. Right, Mike?" Mae said, giving her husband a meaningful look.

"I love you too, Mom," Ahia said in defeat, earning a chuckle from everyone.

"Of course. I cannot stand knowing my only girl right here is sneaking out at night," Mike said, ruffling Ahia's hair affectionately.

"Come now, dear. Eat. I'll have you bring something for a week's ration," Mae said, ushering Ammielle to the dining table.

"Thank you, Aunt Mae. Anyway, hasn't Kuya come back from the US yet? He told me he'd help me redo the garden in South," Ammielle said gratefully.

"He is still busy, kid. He told me he might fly back here next year," Mike responded.

As they settled at the table, the conversation flowed easily. The table was laden with a variety of dishes—Mae had outdone herself. There was a fragrant curry, a steaming bowl of rice, fresh vegetables, and an assortment of side dishes that made Ammielle's mouth water.

"Yel, how's Ahia in school? I spend most of my days in meetings. I don't have much time to have lunch with you guys," Mae asked, turning her attention to Ammielle.

Ahia nudged Ammielle with her leg under the table, pleading with her eyes to lie. Despite Ahia's shortcomings, Ammielle felt a pang of loyalty.

"Ahia's doing great, Aunt Mae," Ammielle said, smiling. "She's been keeping up. She even helped me on some activities."

Mae looked relieved. "That's good to hear. I worry about her sometimes, especially with how busy I've been."

"Mom, you worry too much. I'm fine," Ahia interjected, trying to steer the conversation away from her.

"Well, it's natural for a mother to worry," Mae replied. "Just promise me the both of you to take care of yourselves."

"I promise, Mom," Ahia said, trying to sound sincere rolling her eyes.

As they continued eating, the conversation shifted to lighter topics. They talked about Mae's latest projects, Mike's work, and the latest gossip around town. The laughter made the house feel even warmer and more inviting.

After finishing their meal, Mae began packing some food for Ammielle. "Here, dear. This should last you a week," she said, handing over a large bag filled with containers.

"Thank you so much, Aunt Mae. This is more than enough," Ammielle said.

"It's no trouble at all. You take care of yourself, okay?" Mae said, kissing Ammielle on the cheek.

"Will do, Aunt Mae. Thanks again. I'll get going now uncle." Ammielle replied giving them a quick hug.

As Ammielle prepared to leave, Ahia walked her to the door. "Thanks for covering for me," she whispered, giving her a quick hug.

"Always." Ammielle replied with a smile.

"I'll see you tomorrow. Drive safely, okay?"

"I will." Ammielle said, waving as she headed to her car.

The drive back to South Drive was peaceful, the day's events playing in Ammielle's mind. She felt a sense of contentment, knowing she had a loving family who cared for her.