Never Have I Ever Spinn off Concept Season 1 (FAN MADE)

Chapter 5: Never Have I Ever Missed Home

Thanksgiving break had finally arrived, and the air was thick with the smell of roasted turkey and pumpkin pie. Devi packed her bags for the flight back to Sherman Oaks, feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety. She was eager to reunite with her family and friends but also apprehensive about the conversations that awaited her, particularly regarding her grandmother Pati's health.

Arriving home, Devi was engulfed by the familiar sights and sounds of her childhood. The warmth of her family home wrapped around her like a cozy blanket, but a knot tightened in her stomach as she remembered the phone call with her mom about Pati.

That evening, as the family gathered for dinner, Devi tried to focus on the laughter and conversation around the table. Her mom and Pati had pulled together a feast, and the vibrant chatter of her friends filled the room. Ben, Fabiola, Eleanor, Trent, and Paxton had all returned, adding to the festive atmosphere.

"Devi, you made it!" Ben exclaimed, pulling her into a warm embrace. "I missed you."

"I missed you too! How's Columbia?" she asked, hoping to distract herself from her worries.

"It's great! But nothing compares to home-cooked Thanksgiving food," he replied with a grin.

As they settled around the table, the mood was light, but Devi couldn't shake the feeling of unease. When her mom began discussing Pati's health, the laughter faded slightly.

"Pati's been feeling a bit under the weather lately, but we're hoping she'll bounce back soon," her mom said, looking around the table. "It means a lot to her to have all of you here."

Devi's heart sank. She knew they all cared, but she felt the weight of her family's struggles keenly. As the night went on, she excused herself to step outside for some fresh air. Ben followed her, sensing her unease.

"Hey, are you okay?" he asked, leaning against the porch railing beside her.

Devi took a deep breath, looking up at the stars. "I'm just worried about Pati. Mom told me her health is getting worse, and it's hard to focus on anything else."

"I'm sorry, Devi. I wish I could do more to help," Ben said softly, his tone filled with concern. "Do you want to talk about it?"

"I don't know. I feel guilty for missing home and feeling overwhelmed," she confessed, her voice trembling. "It's like I'm pulled in two directions. I love college, but being away makes everything harder."

"I can't imagine how tough that must be," Ben replied empathetically. "But it's okay to miss home. You're allowed to feel that way. Just remember you have people who care about you."

"Thanks, Ben. It's just... I feel like I'm losing time with Pati," Devi said, her voice wavering. "What if I don't get to see her again? I keep thinking about all the things I didn't say to her."

"Then make the most of the time you do have with her. Share your experiences, your college life. I'm sure she'd love to hear about it," he encouraged. "And you can lean on me whenever you need to talk."

Devi took a deep breath, feeling a little lighter. "I really appreciate that. It means a lot to me."

The next day, with her friends around, Devi decided to focus on creating memories rather than dwelling on her worries. They played board games, shared stories, and enjoyed the comfort of each other's company. Devi's heart warmed as she laughed with her friends, but a sense of melancholy lingered in the back of her mind.

That evening, as they gathered for a second dinner, Devi decided to bring up her concern. "I know we're all busy, but I think we should visit Grandma more often. I want her to know we're thinking of her," she suggested, looking at her mom, Ben, and her friends.

Her mom nodded, a look of gratitude crossing her face. "That's a wonderful idea, Devi. Pati would love that. I know she misses all of you."

As they shared memories of Pati, Devi felt a sense of solidarity growing among them. She was reminded that while her family dynamics might change, the love and support they shared would always remain strong.

As Thanksgiving break came to a close, Devi felt determined to face the challenges ahead, especially with her grandmother's health. She had her friends by her side, and most importantly, she had Ben's unwavering support.

As she prepared to fly back to Princeton, Devi felt a newfound resolve. No matter the distance or challenges, she would navigate her college experience while staying connected to her roots and the people she loved.