Are you really happy to see me, or is this another performance?
Either way, I plaster on an easygoing smile as I step out of the car. Mom's slim frame reminds me of my own.
"I'm so happy to see you, Sebastian," she says, hugging me tightly.
My skin itches. I want to shove her away. I hate being touched. I fucking hate it.
"I'm so happy to see you too, Mom."
I step back, hoping one hug is enough. She smiles and ushers me inside.
The interior hasn't changed either.
A movement to my left catches my attention. Aziel stands with his hands in his pockets, looking at me with a guardedexpression. He hides it well, but I see it… the hate in his eyes. The judgment, the pain. It's all in his eyes.
"Hello, Sebastian," he says.
"Hello, Aziel."
This is the most awkward greeting of my life.
"Aww, finally my boys are back together," Mom gushes. "Let's sit down. The food's ready."
I follow them to the kitchen. The same oval table sits there like it was just yesterday when I ate cereals on it. I sit down and busy myself with the food. If my mouth is full, I don't have to talk.
"So, how was life in England?" Aziel asks, surprising me.
"It was good," I say after swallowing.
"That's all you've got? Did you meet new people? Did you betray them too?"
"Boys," Mom warns.
I lift a brow and throw daggers with my eyes.
"You're the master of betrayals. Why don't you tell me how it's been for you?" I challenge.
His nostrils flare. He seems seconds from flipping the table and attacking me. I would welcome it.
"Do you still keep in touch with my ex?" he bites out.
I don't expect this question, but I answer calmly. "It's none of your business."
His fist slams against the table, making Mom jump. "I can't believe this! Are you fucking kidding with me? I thought after all this time you would have grown and realized what you did."
"I haven't done anything. You're the one who cheated."
He shoots to his feet. I rise too. If he thinks I'm some defenseless twink, he's dead wrong.
"Boys, please. Calm down."
"I should've known better," Aziel spits. "You're nothing more than a bastard."
The word doesn't lands like he wants it to. I know he's just twisting the knife, trying to make me react. Not happening. Especially when there's no knife to twist.
"Aziel!" Mom's voice pitches higher.
I tune her out. There's nothing she can say that I'm interested in hearing.
