If Only

Chapter Twenty-Nine: Bitter Rain

JADE

The driver took us to the airport, where we would meet our parents so that the Legacies could bid them farewell before their departure. Their belongings had already been brought to the airport, and they would be flying first class.

As I stepped out of the car, guided by Tyrone, I saw all the Founders gathered together. My father stood proudly, and beside him were Tyrone's parents, beaming with the same sense of pride in their son.

On instinct, I searched for my mother and walked up next to her. I almost latched onto her arm, but I didn't want to give the wrong impression. I positioned myself just behind her, using her as a shield from Tyrone. He seemed oblivious to my attempts to avoid further interaction; he was all smiles and charm, as if nothing could ruin his day. Sofia, Tyrone's mother, caught her son's cheeks in her hands as he leaned down to her. It was a heartwarming scene, and my chest tightened as I watched. She must truly love Tyrone, given that she never had the chance to do this with her first son, Troy, may his soul rest in peace.

I couldn't fathom the pain of losing a child, and I hoped fate would never subject me to such a tragedy. Sofia had been brave and had managed to overcome her dark days because she now had Tyrone. That was something worth holding onto. I hadn't realized I was watching them so closely until I snapped out of my thoughts.

Sofia hugged her son dearly, doing her best to reach his height by tiptoeing. Tyrone welcomed his mother's affection without any discomfort, holding her tightly with equal compassion. The other Legacies were ready to leave, waiting for Tyrone.

He turned to me, and I stood frozen in place, wondering what he was up to. I silently prayed he wouldn't attempt to hug me. Instead, I extended my hand for a handshake as a gesture of farewell.

Agatha rushed over to me and almost refused to let go when she enveloped me in a hug. She told me, "It was great hanging out with you."

"It was great hanging out with you too," I replied sincerely. It wasn't every day that I met someone I could feel comfortable with, even if she was the complete opposite of me with her boisterous personality. Her character was nice enough to brighten anyone's day.

"We can always talk, you know, like on the phone. I'll keep an eye on Tyrone and give you updates and all," she said, her voice cracking as she laughed. Even during goodbyes, she maintained her cheerful spirit. With one final hug, she walked away, leaving me to receive more hugs from Rebecca and Cora. They seemed to be naturally reserved and preferred enjoying themselves over joining the crowd—my kind of people. It wasn't uncomfortable at all when they hugged me and said nothing more than "goodbye."

We watched them walk away until they were out of sight, and then it was our turn to leave. My father gave some instructions to the Founders, suggesting they make the most of their time off before resuming their travels, and then we departed.

*****

On the way home, my dad remained mostly quiet, which was a good sign. There was no need for him to make any remarks about what happened earlier. After all, I had put on a show with Tyrone.

I found myself in an internal debate about whether I should visit Jared or head straight home and spend the rest of the day in my room. However, after reflecting on today's events, I felt I deserved to see Jared after enduring a long day.

I contemplated Jared's likely whereabouts at this time. I guessed he might be with his friends at the studio. I tried to think of alternative places where my parents could drop me off, allowing me to easily walk to the studio, which was located in the city. I needed to think quickly while we were still in the city. The mall, just a short walk from the studio, seemed like a good option.