The Hindmost {Markson}

Chapter 1

(*Author's POV)

"Wait what?" Jackson suddenly looked away from his phone as his mother spoke some alarming words.

"I said the Tuans oldest son Mark will be coming to stay with us over the summer." She repeated herself as she looked at her son.

"I heard that but what I meant was why?" Jackson sputtered as he turned his body to face her.

"You know he had a great loss last year and it seems being home brings him pain. And since we and the Tuans were close we offered for him to spend his vacation here." She explained further.

"Okay but like...here. In our house?" Jackson asked for even further clarification.

"Yes, Jackson here. We have more room as your brother is gone on his trip. And I know since you two never met as often as we did with his parents you two aren't very close. But I hope you will still be a thoughtful host."

"Well I wouldn't call us not close but like...we were aware each other existed." Jackson added thoughtfully.

"...Yes well, I thought I'd let you know ahead of time." She nodded.

"Right so when is he coming?"

"Tomorrow evening." She replied casually.

"So soon?! Why didn't you tell me before??" Jackson's eyes went wide.

"Because I never see a certain son of mine enough to tell him in person." She shifted her gaze on him.

"Who? Me? I'm here every day!" He insisted.

"No, you are here to sleep and occasionally eat."

"That's not true! I spend lots of time at home."

"Jackson I'm not scolding you but I would appreciate it if you occasionally eat dinner with your father and I." She sighed.

"Aw, mom you make me sound like trash. I'll take you guys out to dinner how about that? A nice restaurant or that new Greek one that just opened in the plaza?"

"Dear...that's not necessary. I just want a nice family dinner here at home. I know you're not a child and your life as an adult is just starting but I'd like to enjoy you for as long as possible." She gave a sad smile. Jackson suddenly stood and went over to his mother side pulling her into a side embrace.

"I know. And I'm sorry if I've been lacking as a son but I promise to try to be here more often okay?" He spoke softer rubbing his mother's arm affectionately.

"Okay...and what's more I expect even more time dedicated to Mark while he's here." She effortlessly switched the subject halting Jacksons comforting hug.

"How much dedication are we talking about?"

"I want you to be your friendly self. If you and your friends are going out I want you to invite him. Try to befriend him." She explained as Jackson slowly released her staring at her.

"Every time?"

"Whatever seems fit. Be kind he's been through quite a bit. Understood?"

"Got it...What time is he coming tomorrow again?" He asked as he pulled out his phone again.

"In the early evening according to his flight schedule."

"Ah, but I got a date tomorrow evening." He whined.

"Date? With the same person?" His mother frowned a bit.

"Yep. So-Cause I really did plan it before I knew anything. It would be really rude to suddenly cancel." He pressed with a slight pout.