Aaron Verlice, the charismatic and talented quarterback of the university's football team, has always been known for his precision on the field and his charm off it. But few people know about his secret passion - art. Aaron's sketches and paintings...
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I can feel the familiar sense of excitement and anticipation building within me as I travel back home with my rabbit, Cookie, for the semester break. It's always great to spend time with my family, especially during the holidays, and I'm looking forward to catching up with them and relaxing after a long semester of training and competitions.
'It is hot'
Right, it's August now. The late summer days are hot and humid, but there's a certain kind of energy in the air that always makes this time of year feel special. Maybe it's because the new skating season is just around the corner and I'll be gearing up for the upcoming competitions. But for now, all I can think about is enjoying my time off and spending quality time with my loved ones.
My excitement quickly turns to dread when my sister informs me that our family on my father's side will be visiting us tomorrow. Just the thought of spending time with some of my less-than-pleasant relatives makes my stomach clench in anxiety. I can already imagine the endless comparisons between me and my cousins, the intrusive questions about my love life, and the judgmental glances anytime I do something that doesn't fit their definition of 'proper.' This visit is bound to be a tense and uncomfortable experience.
"Will they be staying overnight?" I ask Annalise, my voice laced with unease.
Annalise nods in confirmation as she navigates the car through the busy streets.
"Yes, they're staying with us for a few days," she replies.
The words hit me like a cold shower, my anxiety growing even more as I think about having my extended family under the same roof for an extended period of time.
I can't help but groan in displeasure at Annalise's response. It's no secret that my siblings and I don't particularly get along with our extended family on our father's side. They're often critical and judgmental, and we've had many unpleasant interactions with them over the years. The thought of having them around for several days is enough to make my heart race in anxiety.
Annalise glances over at me, sensing my unease. "I know they can be a handful," she says, her tone sympathetic. "But we have to make the best of it. They're family, after all."
I let out a deep sigh, knowing that Annalise is right. No matter how much I dislike our extended family, I can't ignore the fact that they're still blood relatives. The thought of being civil around them and pretending to enjoy their company feels almost as daunting as the biggest skating competition. I try to force a smile, but it feels more like a grimace.
"Yeah, I suppose you're right," I mutter, looking out the window and watching the cityscape pass by. In my mind, I'm already mentally preparing myself for the next day's ordeal, trying to come up with a survival plan to get through it without causing any major family drama.
I decided to change the subject, not wanting to dwell on the impending visit any longer. I glance over at Annalise and ask, "How are things going with you and Xander?" The mention of Annalise's boyfriend, Xander, seems to light up her face, her expression softening with a hint of affection.
