The Dopamine Rush

Chapter Three | London

Nikolai's POV

I sat cross legged in a chair as my foot shook lightly, anticipating our flight to be called.

"Mama, how long is this flight again?" I asked growing a bit antsy.

"Seven hours and twenty minutes"

"Seven hours? I don't recall London being so far." I frowned while sitting back as my eyes closed.

"Well Nik, you were only ten during the last trip, don't think about the length of travel, just focus on the excitement!"

"Not too much excitement I hope." Melvin butted in. "And without me? What am I going to do for almost two weeks without my girls?"

"There, there." My mother chanted. "We will be back as soon as you know it. I promise you."

"Flight 6758! Flight 6758! Please line up in your groups as we call." The announcer said.

"Although the time zones will be different, I will call as soon as we settle."

I eased my backpack on and gave my father a warm hug. "Alright dad, see you soon. I love you."

"I love you Nik." Dad sighed with a grin. "Oh, and remember be responsible, no drinking, no drugs, nothing wild you hear?"

"Yes dad I know! See you!" I grinned while flashing my ticket before mom and I boarded the plane.

*

London, England

After seven long hours, we had finally arrived to our destination. A quick collect at baggage claim and a trip to the ladies room, we waited for Tita (Aunt) Marisa and cousin Brittany.

"I can't wait to see Lola (grandmother) Marlene." I said as we exited the airport. "I wonder will she be picking us up too?"

"Mm, probably not. You know Lola is always up to something."

Just as we were about to take a seat on a nearby bench, Tita Marisa pulled up and parked while Brittany followed closely behind.

"Hello!!" Tita Marisa greeted as she embraced us warmly. "It's been so long, too long! Look at you Nik!"

"Tita it hasn't been that long. You did come to my high school graduation."

"That's right I sure did." Marisa agreed with an playful eye roll.

I watched as my mother finally let go of my cousin. Brittany Howard was her name, both of us being born the same year but three months apart. She was the oldest, which she never let me forget.

"Little cousin, so nice to see you." Brittany smirked.

"Hi Britt.."

"Don't just stand there, give me a hug!" She demanded while I walked closer to embrace her.

"You're still very covered I see. Showing nothing but your face and hands."

"Whatever.." I grumbled. "Besides, it was chilly on the plane."

"But it's summer here and it feels marvelous! Everyone let's go shall we? We have some catching up to do."

We arrived to their home and I was in awe as always. London took my breath away each and every time.

"You sure don't see this type of beauty in Raleigh." Mom said while easing her suitcases from the trunk.

"Let me help you with that." Marisa offered as she quickly moved to help her sister.

I took my things from the vehicle as Brittany grabbed unto my backpack before we all traveled inside.

"Tita Marisa, where is Lola? And Tito (Uncle) Brian?"

"Your Lola had a spa day with some pals and your uncle is working. Everyone should be home soon. Brittany, Nikolai will be sharing your room with you remember? And Raquel will take the guest room. Now you girls go on up and you help Nikolai get settled."

"Your room looks nice."

"You know I try." Brittany said while pushing my bags into her closet.
"You can unpack later, or just live out of your suitcase. I'm sure you're beyond tired."

"Definitely."

So.. what's been up?" She played with a button on her midriff top.

"Well...." I said before beginning to pick my brain for a response. "University was fine!"

"Spare me Nikolai, I don't want to speak about school unless you're talking something juicy." Brittany frowned. "Any men caught your eye? Oh I get it. You have a boyfriend now. Are you having sex yet?"

"Brittany please! I don't have a boyfriend and I am not having sex. Besides, Dad says to remain abstinent until marriage."

Brittany rolled her eyes with a laugh. "Your father has always been such a prude. You're grown, you can make your own decisions don't you think?"

*

It was around 8 p.m. and everyone had finally arrived just in time for dinner. Lola passed out wine glasses to us all as Tita Marisa brought out the food.

"Tonight's menu we have chicken adobo, ensaymada, and lumpia!"

"Wine my baby?" Lola asked.

"Ah, no.. no thank you."

"I'll take a glass or two!" Mom announced before her and Marisa shared a giggle.

What? Mama never drinks at home.

"Are you still going to that show tomorrow night? asked Brittany's dad Brian.

"Yes! I won those tickets so I'm going for sure."

"What show are you talking about? My mother asked while taking a sip of her wine.

"Oh yeah Tita, Prince is doing a show down at Wembley tomorrow night."

"Prince... as in Raspberry Beret Prince?"

"Yes!"

"I guess I am going to go alone since David has gotten sick on me. Unless... Nik goes with me." Brittany offered while raising a brow.

"Me? Oh.. oh no I better not ----"

"She'll go!" Mom blurted, stopping me mid sentence.

"But mom I..." I said as I placed my fork down trying to come up with any excuse I could.

"Ah c'mon, it'll be fun. Besides, I heard the guy puts on a damn good show."

I had never gone to a concert in my life, and I wondered would Prince put on a show good enough to entertain me...