The First Rule

Chapter 32b: A Piece of Advice

Great. Another slap in the face.

You sit there in stunned silence. You hadn't said anything, yet—somehow, the conversation veered into territory that struck a chord within you. With a confused expression, you dart your eyes between your mom—and your struggling-WWE-with-a-dog—dad, trying to process all of their words. But not until John blurts out,

"Well, Tyler—"

Only to get a strong jab from your mom, inclining him to shut up. Groaning in pain, your dad slaps your mom's arm before Tumba continues pestering him. You run a hand through your hair in sudden awkwardness—as if it's not already awkward enough.

Shaking her head in disbelief, your mom tries to recover the vibe and laughs, "You know what I said to your dad?" The passive-aggressive question successfully piques your curiosity because now you hesitantly incline your head to her.. to have her say, "If being without you is impossible.. I'd rather be with you and be vulnerable."

With your jaw dropped to the ground, you shake your head in amazement—clapping your hands while applauding, "Ok damn, mom. It rhymes. Could be a song lyric by now."

Tumba starts jumping around after releasing himself from your dad's grip, wanting to interrupt this moment—probably sensing this circle has much more value. But your mom pets him to keep him at bay. "Sometimes the easiest choice that lies in plain sight is the hardest," she said softly while leaning forward once more. She reaches out and places her hand over yours as she whispers, "You know, baby? What's easy is right."

What's easy.. what's easy.. easy—

"You're confused whether you like someone or not, because.. sometimes, loving someone is a choice. You choose who you love even though—maybe.. right now.."

Her gaze unwavering, voice gentle but firm. You blink, feeling the pieces of the puzzle slowly coming together. Sweat starts drenching the palms of your hands—your fingers start to get really cold. In the back of your mind, you really don't want her to continue. Because maybe.. maybe.. you already know the answer. Because maybe..

"Your heart belongs to someone else."

And her words hit you like a ton of bricks. A sense of clarity washes over you like a sudden rush of wind. Because maybe.. all this time.. this is all you need. This sense of validation.

"And always remember that a choice can always be altered. Remember that."

And that's it.

You feel as though you've been wandering in a foggy maze, but now—finally, you've found a way out. You're on the edge of the cliff. And all you need is to take the leap of faith.

No more.

No more ignoring the feelings.

Rising from your seat with a sense of urgency, you whisper, "Guys—I think I need to go—"

Mr. Winters stops mid-tickling Tumba, shouting in hastiness, "What—where—?!"

"I'll let you know later—!"

Your dad's puzzled expression register in your peripheral vision as he almost stands to catch you—when he feels an assuring hand on his arm. John turns his head back, to find Janet smiling in assurance, squeezing his hand, asking him to trust her. To trust.. you.

And with that, he gives a repeated nod and shrugs, continuing his play with Tumba.

With a sense of purpose driving you forward, you hastily grab your phone. Fingers trembling slightly with anticipation, you unlock the screen.. and write a simple text to the person who has occupied your thoughts for so long.