After a lengthy stint abroad in the Netherlands, Donovan finally returned home. The airport was a buzzing hive of activity, with people rushing to and fro, announcements blaring overhead, and the distant rumble of luggage wheels echoing through the halls. The flight had been exhausting, cramped in uncomfortable seats with only sporadic interruptions of turbulence and bland airplane food. But despite the weariness, Donovan's heart soared with anticipation, eager to reunite with his loved ones and find solace in the familiarity of home.

Stepping out of the arrivals gate, Donovan was immediately engulfed in a whirlwind of emotions. His younger sibling Amari, along with Rory practically tackled him in a bear hug. Amidst the chaos of greetings and laughter, Donovan felt a sense of belonging wash over him, a reassuring reminder that he was back where he belonged.

Love, Donovan realized, was more than just grand gestures or elaborate expressions. It was the warmth of Amari's embrace, the playful banter with Rory, and the quiet understanding that permeated their interactions. In their presence, Donovan found comfort and strength, a reminder that he was never alone in his struggles.

Having recently graduated, Donovan was ready to start on a new chapter in his life. Therapy had played a crucial role in his journey of self-discovery, helping him confront his fears and insecurities head-on. With each session, Donovan had grown more confident, more assured that he could overcome any obstacle that came his way.

Rory and Amari fought over who would hold his luggage, with Amari winning since Rory seemed to give me everything that they wanted. As they made their way to the car, Donovan was met with his dad who embraced him in a tight hug as though they didn't see eachother just a month ago. This hug felt welcoming and made him feel secure that his dad was happy to have him back.

"Welcome back son. I hope these two didn't frighten you," he said as he looked pointedly at Amari and Rory who feigned innocence as if they weren't fighting mere minutes ago.

"I can overlook them, if that means that I can be back home."

His father smiled as Amari and Rory complained about the apparent rude remark. "Just wanted to give you a heads up. We are going to Rory's house for dinner. If you're not comfortable, we can head home instead."

"Where's mom?"

"She's already there. I can take you to see her though."

Donovan contemplated for a minute, knowing that he wanted to just go home. If he agreed, there is a chance that he would see Jeremy and he wanted to avoid it at all costs. But he knew that he wanted to see Jeremy's parents.

"Listen," his dad said while holding his shoulder. "Remember you are in control at the moment. If you're not comfortable, just say no. You're not hurting anyone."

"Will Jeremy be there?"

"He usually is there. I have no way of knowing if he cancelled or not. If it helps, nobody mentioned that you were coming back home."

Now that seemed to be a problem. Donovan would have hated to be blindsided by Jeremy's presence. Just recently Jeremy started messaging him on instagram. He even congratulated him on graduating. Donovan obviously never replied and he felt like his actions were adding to the flame that has never stopped burning since he left.

"I will go, but I think someone should tell him that I'll be there. Just to give him the chance to not show up. I doubt he wants to see me," Donovan said feeling defeated.

Everytime he thought of Jeremy for more than five minutes, he felt melancholic. Their shortlived romance had scarred him beyond repair. No matter how much he tried to tell himself that he was over it, he was not.

Regardless he was eager to catch up and share stories of his time away from his parents and Jeremy's.

As they drove through familiar streets, Donovan couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the journey that had led him back home. Despite the challenges and uncertainties that lay ahead, he knew that he had the love and support of his family to guide him through. With a renewed sense of purpose and determination, Donovan looked forward to embracing whatever the future held, one step at a time.