Bound by the Waves

Chapter 7: Message from Mom

The next morning, I made my way to Dr. Reyes's office, both out of a sense of duty and concern. Despite his reassurance the night before, I couldn't shake the worry that had crept in during our call. He had always been a robust figure, a mentor with seemingly boundless energy, so hearing the strain in his voice had unsettled me.

I knocked gently on his door and waited for his familiar "Come in." Inside, Dr. Reyes was seated at his desk, a slight weariness in his eyes that hadn't been there before.

"Sydney," he greeted with a warm, if somewhat tired, smile. "I had a feeling you'd stop by."

"Just checking in, making sure you're taking your own advice to 'take it easy,'" I replied with a smile, but the concern was clear in my tone.

He let out a small chuckle. "I suppose I should've seen that coming." He gestured to a chair, inviting me to sit. "But really, it's just age catching up. I'm fine, Sydney. And besides, I trust that you'll manage everything perfectly in Aramora."

I nodded, reassured but still alert to any signs that he might be downplaying his health. "Just promise me you'll look after yourself. The team will need you when we get back."

He smiled softly and nodded. "I will. Speaking of the team, I wanted to let you all know that you'll have three days off-duty before you leave. Consider it some time to regroup, rest, and pack up anything personal you need. I know it's not much, but it's enough time to recharge."

"Three days," I repeated, feeling a wave of relief at the idea of a few extra days. "Thank you, Dr. Reyes. I'll make sure everyone knows."

Before I stood up, he added, "I also wanted to let you know, Sydney, that this mission will be extended. We're planning for it to last nine months."

Nine months. It struck me just how long I'd be away from everything familiar, the longest I'd ever be on my own. "Got it. Thanks for telling me."

With a few more reassuring words and a farewell, I left his office, satisfied he was in good hands with his own doctors keeping an eye on him. Heading out of the hospital, I pulled out my phone, thumb hovering over the screen as I composed a quick message to Kate.

> Hey, Kate! Can you make a group chat for the team? Dr. Reyes gave us three days off before we leave, so I want everyone to be ready.

Her response was almost instant.

> Sure thing, Dr. Alvarez! I'll set it up and let everyone know. Can't wait!

I smiled, feeling some of the day's weight lift off my shoulders. These little steps, the preparations and support, all felt like pieces falling into place.

Just as I was about to start the car, my phone chimed with another message-this one from Mom.

> Sydney, the Salvadors invited us to dinner tonight. I know it's last minute, but they'd love to see you before you leave. And you'll finally get to meet Xaviel. It would mean a lot to your father and me if you could be there.

My stomach clenched at the thought. Dinner at the Salvador mansion meant I'd have to sit across from my fiancé, the man my family had been so eager for me to meet. It was the very situation I had been avoiding-this impending tie to someone I barely knew and hadn't chosen.

But something in my mother's message, the gentle plea, softened my resolve. My father's health had been a worry for a while, and they wanted this moment of unity for my sake.

After a deep breath, I typed a response.

> Alright, I'll be there.

As I put the phone away, my mind was already racing. Tonight's dinner was bound to be awkward and heavy with expectation. But maybe it would help close a chapter I wasn't ready to carry into my mission.

As I walked into my apartment, my mind was already shifting gears. Dinner at the Salvadors meant I couldn't just show up in scrubs and a tired face from a long day at the hospital. This was more than a family dinner-it was my parents' way of ensuring I'd finally meet Mr. Salvador.

I took a deep breath and went to my bedroom, sifting through my closet for something that would make a good impression without feeling too formal. Eventually, I settled on a simple, knee-length navy dress I partnered it with some pair of diamond earrings given by my dad. It was understated but elegant, and I hoped it would be enough to avoid any comments from Mom about "presenting myself well."

As I slipped into the dress, I texted my mother:

> Hey, Mom. Could you send me the address for tonight? Heading out soon.

Mom's response was immediate:

> Of course! Here's the address. And thank you, Sydney. This means a lot to us.

A moment later, my phone buzzed with a message containing the Salvador family's address-a prestigious estate located in one of the city's most affluent areas. Seeing it written out made the evening feel even more daunting. But I was determined to keep an open mind; this dinner wasn't just for my parents, it was also a way to get some closure before heading to Aramora for the next nine months.

With one last look in the mirror, I grabbed my keys and headed out. The drive was surprisingly calming, giving me a few moments to collect my thoughts. But as I pulled into the driveway of the Salvador mansion, my pulse quickened. The sprawling estate was grander than I expected, with elegant landscaping, tall gates, and a modern architectural design that practically shouted "old money."

As I approached the front door, my thoughts turned to Mr. Salvador, my fiancé, I don't even know his first name despite that his my so called supposed partner for life, yet a complete stranger. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I took a deep breath, straightened my dress, and rang the doorbell, ready to face whatever the evening held.