Coming Home (回家): A Rock Dog Short Story

Part 2

In an instant, Bodi realised that much has changed ever since he left the village for a life of rock music and legendary guitar lessons at Mengcheng.

Thanks to the salary Bodi was earning, the family could not afford a decent-sized OLED television, just the right size for the family. Speaking of, Khampa, Bodi's father who taught him how to utilise his "Fire", helped him bring the luggage upstairs to his old room, leaving him inside the living room, insulated by the new heater the family has bought for winter.

Bodi rest his head against the sofa as his mother noticed him and stepped outside of the kitchen, still wearing an apron as she was preparing dinner.

Bodi's mum greeted, "Why, welcome home, Bodi!"

"Thanks, Mum," Bodi replied, his tail wagging in excitement over seeing her again.

"Would you like something to drink while I prepare the reunion dinner?"

"Yeah, I definitely need some hot tea."

"Sure thing, my son," Bodi's mum returned to the kitchen to prepare a cup of hot tea for him. Having never tasted her cooking before, Bodi anticipated for some home comforts.

Bodi's Dad returned from Bodi's old room and head downstairs, joining the young Mastiff at the sofa. Nothing has much changed for Bodi's dad ever since he met; however, the difference is that Khampa has been more forgiving.

Khampa (K): So, how's the trip?

Bodi (B): Very well, Dad. I didn't know you upgraded the place!
K: Well, the money you sent to us really helped us a lot. I'm glad you're doing well in the big city.

B: Yeah, but I do miss you. And Mum. And this whole village...

(Khampa patted Bodi for a second)

K: Don't worry, no matter where you were, the whole village is with you.

(Bodi stood up)

B: Dad, just a few months ago, you told me not to become a musician, so why the sudden change of heart? I don't understand...

K: Well, the simple reason is this: We want to bring down the tradition of using the ancient art of "Fire" tour our children, then our grandchildren... You get the idea. However, you weren't interested in using the "Fire" to protect the village. You simply wanted to play music, become a rock star or something... Anyway, the point is, protecting the village is useless when one wants to pursue something else.

(Khampa go close to Bodi to whisper something to his ear)

K: Anyway, you should know this: your mother got pregnant again.

B (whispering): What?

K: You're gonna be a big brother, Bodi.

(Bodi wagged his tail in excitement)

B: Really, Dad?

K: Yes, my son. You notice how slightly large your mother's belly is?

B: She knows, right?