I felt that nervous feeling in my stomach grow as the flight attendant announced we were going to land. I can’t believe my life has become this. I’m nervous to go home and see my family. All of them will be there, once again. Denise and Theo are coming for Christmas. Mum is actually coming to Dad’s for Christmas this year.
I looked out the window as the plane was preparing for landing. The small buildings were coming into view. I know that Dad is going to be at the airport to pick me up. Along with dad will be the tons of fans.
Soon, the plane landed, and we were directed off the plane. I got off and searched for my baggage. Once that task was complete, I headed further into the airport. I pulled out my phone and sat down at one of the seats so I could call my dad.
I clicked on my dad’s contact and pressed call. I was hoping to get a call in before the fans found out I was here, “Hey Dad it’s Niall,” I said, once he picked up.
“Hey Niall, have you landed?” dad asked.
“Yeah, I’m in the airport, are you here yet?”
“I’m in the parking lot, right in front, can you just walk over to the car or do you want me to come in?” he asked. I think I should be good. I don’t want dad to be mobbed by fans or something…
“Yeah, that’s fine. I’ll meet you out there in a few. Bye Dad,” I said. Dad said bye in reply and we ended the call. I wheeled my two suitcases towards the exit. I saw a couple people whispering and pointing as I walked by, soon groups of girls were walking up to me. I wanted to and didn’t want to talk to all of them. I really should get over to my dad, so I hope I can get out fast.
Soon, I was trying to push my way through a crowd of screaming girls. It only took five minutes. I was politely trying to say excuse me, as I walked out of the airport. I finally pulled away from them and got in my dad’s car, shutting the door behind me. The fans were screaming as my dad drove us out of the airport.
“I’ll never be able to get used to your fans,” Dad joked. I quietly laughed, “Me neither.”
I really hope the airport isn’t far from our house. I just wish I could move past this awkward car ride. But, then I’d just end up going home to Denise and Theo. So, it’s a lose-lose situation.
I leaned against the back of my seat, and looked out the window. I wasn’t really in the mood to talk with my dad, but I hated this awkward silence, “So, um, how has work been?”
“Fine, kind of busy lately because of the holidays,” he replied, “What about you?”
“I’ve just been performing a bit with the boys doing some meet and greets, interviews, and CD signings. It’s been slower now that tour is over, I’m thankful for that.”
“Yeah,” Dad replied. There is the awkward silence again. This time, I didn’t even try to solve that problem. If dad wants it to go away, I’ll talk, but I don’t think he wants to talk to me anymore.
*
We arrived at the house in a few minutes. The rest of the car ride was silent. Frankly, I didn’t care. I don’t mind silence. Especially when I’m not in the mood to talk to my dad. I know that he’ll talk about Greg, because that’s all anyone ever wants to talk about when I’m over it seems like.
I got out of the car and my dad helped me carry in one of my bags; I carried the other one. We headed inside and my mum immediately greeted me, “Niall!” she exclaimed, pulling me into a tight hug. I laughed, “Hey mom,” I greeted her, hugging her back.
“I’ve missed you!” she exclaimed, finally letting go. I smiled, “I missed you, too.” See? My mom is so much better at faking than my dad. He could use some practice.
“I can help you take your bags up to your room if you want,” dad suggested. I shook my head, “No, I’m fine,” I answered. He nodded and let me go upstairs on my own.
I hauled my two suitcases upstairs and tossed them into my room. I sat on the edge of my bed and looked around my room. It’s been a while since I’ve been in here. When was the last time? Oh right, Greg’s funeral.
I lay back on the bed and stared at the blank white ceiling. I know that Greg will somehow be mentioned while I’m here. I just need to work on controlling my emotions. If I can do that, then I will be good.
I finally sat up after lying down for five minutes. I think I better go back downstairs. I headed out of my room and down the stairs. I saw that Denise and Theo were in the living room as I passed by, “Hey Niall,” she cheerfully greeted me.
“Hey,” I quietly replied and walked over to the kitchen, where my mum was. She smiled when she saw me, “Hi Niall, would you like to help prepare some food with me for the Christmas dinner?”
“Sure,” I answered, walking over to her side. My mum pulled out some ingredients and told me to get some out, too. Soon, we had everything we needed to make a pie. That’s what we were starting.
My mum grabbed the crust. I laughed, “Pre-made?” I joked. Mum laughed, “Yeah, I didn’t want to have to make a crust along with the chocolate filling!”
“So, I’m guessing it’s a chocolate pie?” I asked. Mum nodded, and then looked at the recipe. She scanned the instructions ahead of time, and then looked back up at me. She started instructing me on how to make the pie. I followed her instructions carefully.
Soon, our pie was finished. The kitchen was a complete mess, but at least we got one thing finished. Mum stuck the pie in the fridge and inspected the mess, “So, do you wanna clean this up or cook some more?”
“Cook,” I answered, causing mum to laugh. She looked in her cookbook for the next recipe. Her fingernail rested on the next recipe, “Okay, time to work on a green been casserole.”
“Okay, let’s get to it then,” I said.
