Origins of Us

3

Eiry stood in front of the mirror, a soft smile playing on her lips as she admired her reflection. She had chosen a black dress that perfectly balanced youthful energy with a touch of sophistication. The dress was sleeveless, with a fitted bodice that highlighted her slender figure and a flared skirt that twirled gracefully above her knees. The simple yet stylish cut made her look both elegant and fun, fitting perfectly the place where she was going. On her feet, she wore a pair of white sneakers with a hint of gleam. She loved how the sneakers gave her outfit a casual edge, perfect for dancing or simply feeling comfortable throughout the evening. Turning slightly, Eiry moved to the chest of drawers where a variety of hair accessories lay neatly arranged. She picked up a thin, silver headband adorned with tiny, sparkling stars, and gently placed it over her wavy hair. The headband added a touch of whimsy that complemented her look perfectly. With practiced ease, she brushed through her hair, ensuring it fell in loose, natural waves over her shoulders. She then picked up a bottle of her favorite floral perfume and spritzed it lightly on her neck and wrists, the fragrant mist enveloping her in a delicate, captivating scent. Stepping back to the mirror, she gave herself one last appreciative glance. Her makeup was minimal, enhancing her natural beauty-just a touch of mascara to accentuate her almond eyes, a hint of blush to bring out the warmth in her cheeks, and a soft, pink lip color that added a hint of freshness. She looked vibrant and radiant, perfectly embodying the effortless elegance she aimed for. As she admired her reflection, a sudden honk from outside startled her. Eddie was here. Her heart fluttered with a mix of excitement and nerves. Grabbing her purse, a simple yet stylish leather clutch that matched her sneakers, she hurried out of her room. Descending the stairs, she felt a rush of anticipation.

"Why is a boy in a Toyota outside?" Tim was waiting for her at the end of the stairs.

"I'll explain later, dad." Eiry kissed her father's cheek and was about to leave when he held her by her elbow.

"Come back here..." Tim looked in her eyes. "Can I trust this boy? Who is he?"

"He works two jobs to be able to pay his bills and still finds time to invest on his dream which is music and sometimes among all that, like tonight, he does some roadie stuff at the Bacchanal." Tim looked at her rather startled. "He's a responsible guy, dad." She then affirmed.

"Around you... that's what matters to me." He affirmed.

"Tim, the boy is waiting." Laila intervened, wrapping her arm around his. A soft smile on her lips while she looked into her husband's eyes.

"You heard about this..." Tim waited for someone to tell him his name.

"Eddie." Eiry replied. "I met him at the beach. He surfs too. He knows Paul and he brought him to surf with our group. That's how I met him."

Tim stepped away from Laila and Eiry, his curiosity piqued, and quietly approached the hallway window. Peering through the glass, he spotted Eddie inside his Toyota truck, fingers drumming nervously on the steering wheel. The soft glow of the dashboard lights illuminated his thoughtful expression, his eyes occasionally glancing toward the house. The sight of him, so composed yet evidently anxious, struck Tim with a sense of understanding. His presence exuded a mix of youthful anticipation and a deep-rooted desire to impress, making Tim smile knowingly as he stepped back to join Laila and Eiry.

"How old is he?" He then asked.

"23." Eiry rolled her eyes. "Dad, he's waiting!"

"Have fun." He leaned over to kiss Eiry's cheek. "Maybe he should come talk to me sometime."

"Dad!" She rolled her eyes again. "He's a friend, it's not like I'm marrying him or be the mother of his children. Stop!" Laila and Tim ended up giggling.