Chapter 2: Family Reunion

The sound of running water had David turning around in bed and slowly opening his eyes. As he slowly adjusted to the light in the room, he turned his head in the direction of the alarm clock, looking at the glowing green letters.

6:35 a.m.

He sighed as he closed his eyes and turned his head to look at the ceiling. He wanted to go back to sleep, the four to five hours of sleep he had gotten wasn’t nearly enough. David groaned as he remembered that he couldn’t go back to sleep and needed to get up. Slowly he sat up, throwing his legs over the edge of the bed and rubbing at his eye as he looked around the room.

Their packed bags were in the corner of the room and the clothes they had clumsily taken of last night were scattered all over the floor. A yawn escaped as he saw the door connecting them to the bathroom was open and the running water was coming from inside. Steam was escaping and David could faintly hear Amy humming.

When he turned his head to look at her side of the bed it was indeed empty. He finally got up and headed for the bathroom, removing his shirt in the process and dropping it into the laundry bin as he passed. He stripped himself of his boxers flinging that in the bin as well.

With slow movements, he slid the curtain aside and stepped in. Amy gave a small jump as he put his hand on her hip and reached over her shoulder for the shampoo bottle.

“A little warning would be nice.” Amy complained as she turned around and took the bottle form his hands. David only gave her a sheepish smile as she sighed.

She squeezed a little dollop into her hand before rubbing it into his hair.

“When are we leaving?” David asked, his eyes closed to prevent any of the menacing liquid from dripping into his eyes. Amy’s hands guided him until he was under the spray of water.

“After breakfast we should be ready to go, unless Jason hasn’t woken up yet.” Amy replied, her hands slipping from his hair.

“That’s good, I’ll just stop by Jim’s to return his flathead.” David ran his hands through his hair to ensure that all the suds were gone before returning the favour.

“So, what had your brain turning last night?” Amy asked, tipping her head back when David guided it under the spray.

“Nothing too serious, just something Jason mentioned yesterday.” When Amy was cleaned off she opened her eyes and raised one brow at David.

“You sure?”

“Positive”

Amy nodded, still skeptical. “Alright, if you say so.”

David smiled and pulled her in, kissing her on her forehead.

“Alright mister, finish up in here and then come get some breakfast.” She stepped out the shower, closing the curtain quickly.

David stood underneath the showerhead for a few minutes, his mind running over what Jason said yesterday. Now that he had thought about it thoroughly he realized just how much it didn’t make sense. He shook his head as he turned the water off, realising he was thinking too much into it.

He was going to relax the weekend and spent time with his family, not thinking about trivial matters.

After David was dressed and ready for the day he headed for the kitchen, hearing his brother still snoring in his room. As he entered the kitchen he saw his wife busy preparing breakfast dressed more casually than he had seen her all week.

“Should I go wake Jason up yet?” David asked as he snatched a piece of bacon of the pan, not even a second later he was hit with a cloth on his hand.

“No, poor thing hasn’t slept on a real bed for ages. Let him sleep a little longer.” Amy never sounded this concerned for him, David narrowed his eyes a little as he thought it over.

“He can sleep on the drive there.” Was all he commented as he left the kitchen. He could hear Amy protesting behind him, but ignored it.

As he stopped in front of his brother’s temporary room he could still hear the snoring from inside.

“Dear brother!” David knocked on the door cheerfully and quickly, the snoring didn’t stop. He chuckled as he knocked louder calling Jason through the door. After a few seconds the snoring stopped and David could hear a groan. Not long after a loud thump was heard followed by a grunt and then the door was opened.

David was greeted by a disgruntled looking Jason dressed in nothing but the sheet wrapped around his waist.

“What?” He didn’t look anywhere near awake, one eye still closed and the other one only halfway open.

“Come on soldier, its breakfast time.” David was smiling way too cheerily for his liking.

“I don’t need food.” Was Jason’s grumbled answer, he turned to head back to bed, but stopped in his tracks when he heard David’s words.

“Amy made bacon and pancakes.”

“I need food.” Jason immediately turned around, ready to head out the door in nothing but a sheet.

“Whoa there, you need to get ready, we leave after breakfast. I want to avoid traffic as much as possible.” David put his hand up, stopping Jason from exciting the room.

“Why would there be traffic on a Friday morning?” Jason grumbled as he headed for his bag.

David watched him pull out articles of clothes, only a few. Most of Jason’s clothes were held at their parents’ house.

“School’s out today. Most families will be heading to the beach and I don’t want to get stuck in the traffic.” Jason nodded as he examined the outfit he had put together, he grinned seemingly satisfied before gathering the clothes up and heading for the bathroom.

“I’m just dropping by Jim really quick, Amy’s in the kitchen when you’re done.”

“Okay.” Jason called before the bathroom door shut behind him.

David smiled before turning and heading for the lounge. The flathead was perched on the small table next to the door where he had placed it last night after tightening the screw.

“I’m heading to Jim. Be back soon Hon.” David called into the house as he grabbed the screw driver. He opened the door hearing a soft ‘okay’ being called before the door closed behind him and he was met with darkness.

Most of the lights had been on in the house, making him completely forget about how early it was. The street lamps were still on and all of the houses on the street were completely dark.

As David cut across the lawn he could already see Jim rocking back and forth on his chair on the porch. The door was wide open, light streaming out from the windows and door. Stepping onto the steps of the porch, Jim looked up at him and smiled. He closed the paper he was reading before tipping his hat in greeting. David could hear Mary’s voice from inside, singing along to the radio.

“Morning neighbour!” Jim called as he took a sip of his coffee, smiling up at the younger man.

“Good morning Jim.” David replied back, leaning against the fence of the porch. “Just dropped by to return the flathead, thanks again.” He wiggled the screw driver in Jim’s direction as he smiled, placing it on the small table next to Jim before going back to his leaning position.

“No problem.” Jim eyed David up and down before taking a glance at the house next to his. “You three hitting the road this early?” he asked when his eyes landed on David again.

David nodded. “Yeah, we want to miss as much traffic as possible.”

Jim nodded, lifting the paper up again. “Hope you folks enjoy it. Say hi to those parents of yours, I haven’t seen them in a few months.”

David nodded as he eyed the newspaper, flying over the headlines. One in particular caught his eye.

“Hey Jim, mind if I see the paper for a sec?” He asked, already reaching out for it.

Jim nodded, handing the paper over without much thought.

Hospitals up to capacity after massive Storm hits the Country

After the devastating Storm we had just a week ago hospitals all over the country are filled to their limits, from people who have been injured in the mass flooding that it caused. A few days after the storm had passed several people have begun to fall ill to a new type of flu and while it in itself is not completely different than the common cold or flu there have been reports of people falling into a coma and in some rare instances dying. If you experience any symptoms or feel different in the slightest way visit your local doctor or pharmacist for a free of charge prescription.

“That’s bad, looks like West Lake City wasn’t the only place that was hit badly. This is the first I’ve heard of a flu though.” David thought out loud, before his eyes widened. “Wait, Jim. You don’t think Mary has this?”

Silence enveloped the porch as Jim shook his head vigorously. “No, even if it was the same thing we already went to the doctor and got a prescription. I’m sure she’ll be fine.” He glanced at the paper before wincing. “But I can’t believe this got this bad.” David nodded in agreement as he looked back down at the paper.

Before anything else could be said David’s watch beeped and when he looked down he realised it was 7 a.m.

“It was a nice chat and all but unfortunately I gotta get going. When we get back we can talk some more. You and Mary take care now.” David was already making his way down the porch as he called over his shoulder his goodbye’s to Jim.

“Sure thing. You be safe as well.” Jim waved before he returned to his newspaper, eyes furrowing once more.

When David opened his front door he bumped right into Jason, steadying himself by using his brother’s shoulders.

“Was just coming to get you little brother. Amy and I thought you got lost somewhere along the sidewalk.” Jason laughed, eyes bright and looking way better than earlier.

“Just got side tracked by something in the newspaper.” He informed while closing the door behind him.

Jason looked like he wanted to say something, but Amy beat him to it as she shouted into the house. “Breakfast’s ready!”

The siblings rushed into the kitchen, mouths immediately watering as the smell of bacon and pancakes filled their nose. “Here, be helpful.” Amy instructed, thrusting plates, glasses and silverware into their hands.

They quickly set up the table, just wanting to be fed.

“Nice to have you running around, helping me. If Jason moved in I wouldn’t have to move a finger.” Amy laughed, carrying the food into the dining room.

“Well, don’t get used to it sister.” Jason replied, sitting down in a chair. The others quickly followed before getting some food on their plates and digging in.

The Warren household was silent for a few moments as the three enjoyed the food in front of them.

“So, what was in the newspaper that go you side-tracked?” Jason asked as he stuffed his mouth with bacon. Amy gave him a look, but he didn’t notice as he stared at his brother, waiting.

“News about the storm we had last week. They talked about casualties and how people started getting the flu a few days after it passed.” David replied, drinking the last of his coffee.

“That sounds terrible, do they know what caused it?” Amy’s voice was soft as she asked the question.

“I don’t think so. I didn’t read that far. But from what I did read it looks like the hospitals are packed with the sick and injured.” David’s elbows were placed on the table in front of him, his eyebrows furrowed in worry as he talked.

“I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about. In a week or so everything should be back to normal.” Was Jason’s final answer as he stood up, taking his empty plate with him.

“I sure hope so.” David went unheard.

“Oh, don’t worry about the dishes Jason. I’ll do it.” Amy smiled as she hurried over to her brother-in-law, taking the plate out of his hand.

“Are you sure, it’s the least I could do.” He reached for his plate, but Amy slapped his hand away lightly.

“Yes, I’m sure. You and David have to pack the car still. I’ll take care of the dishes” then she disappeared into the kitchen.

“Just agree, she’s one hell of a stubborn woman.” David clapped his brother on the shoulder, before leading him in the other direction.

The three of them quickly jumped to work. Amy cleaning and the men packing the car. A little over 10 minutes later everyone had done their part. Amy and Jason waited by the car while David had a quick look around the house.

 He checked all the rooms, making sure the windows were closed and locked. He didn’t want anyone breaking in while they were away.

When he reached their room he was satisfied. Every window was locked. He was just about to turn and leave when he remembered their bathroom. And sure enough when he glanced inside, the top window was open. He quickly reached up and pulled it shut.

As he made his way out of the house, he checked the sliding door once more to ensure it was locked tight.

“Okay, time to hit the road.” David called out as he closed the front door behind him.

As David headed for the driver side, Jason reached for the back door, but stopped when he realised Amy was already seated in the back.

“Aren’t you gonna sit up front?” Jason asked, leaning down slightly to look in the car.

“No, you take up front. This way I can sleep some more.” Jason raised his eyebrows at Amy’s reply, but smiled nonetheless as he closed the door and quickly got into the passenger’s side.

”Do you have everything you need? I’m not turning back once I start this car.” David looked form his brother to his wife as he awaited their answer.

“Yep.” “Yes.” their answers came at the exact same time and David shook his head. “Okay then.”

“Coral Shores here we come.” David said to himself as he started the car.

Jim was still sat outside his home as the three drove past and he waved with a smile as David honked twice.

The sun was rising slowly as the family made their way out of the city. Traffic was almost non-existent once they made it onto the high way. Amy reached over to turn on the radio once they were a few minutes outside of the city.

“-morning folks this is Jessica Hamilton with your 8 o’clock news.” The reporter’s news filled the mostly silent car.

“She sounds attractive.” Jason smiled as he reached out to turn up the volume.

Amy slapped his hand to stop the action. “And married.” She said with a pointed glare at Jason.

He only smirked as he settled back into his chair. “That’s never stopped me.”

“Can you two be quiet for a sec?’ David asked as he furrowed his brows and turned up the volume, listening intently.

“Tragedy still hangs over the country after the storm that struck us last week, leaving many people injured and hospitalized. Several districts of West Lake City has also been badly impacted by the storm which took a huge hit in the City’s economic standing. In other news the Founder and CEO of Razor Enterprises, Norman Razor, has announced that his company will be funding repairs as well as supplying the hospitals with the staff and equipment necessary to maintain those injured in last week’s storm. Mr Razor has also announced that a ceremony to honour those who lost their lives will be held tonight by the shores of West Lake. He himself will be present to pay his respects. It seems like West Lake does have someone watching over us in our time of need.”

David lowered the volume as she went on to talk about gas prices falling.

 “That’s nice of him.” Amy commented as she gazed out the window, eyes following the many trees they pass.

“What’s Razor Enterprises?” Jason asked, confusion clear in his voice.

David turned into the next lane as his family spoke.

“I think it happened just after you left. Norman Razor appeared out of nowhere and bought most of the companies in the city and merged them with Razor Enterprise. Apparently he saw great potential in West Lake and ever since they’ve been working to expand and better the city.” Amy sat up and straighter as she quickly glanced at David.

“Sounds like he’s loaded.” Jason replied, narrowing his eyes as he looked at the road. Amy shrugged as she leaned back against her seat and closed her eyes.

“He makes more in one day that we make in a year brother, definitely more than us.” David answered.

The rest of the trip was filled in silence as Jason slowly dozed off next to his brother. Amy was quick to follow after she had done some work on her laptop. Which left David to continue the journey alone. Not that he minded. Sometimes when his brother and wife were together they could be a handful. As David drove he noticed that an ambulance would speed past every few minutes.

Probably the new units from Razor enterprises, David thought.

After a few minutes David noticed the radio had stopped playing. With furrowed brows he decided to just change the station.

Just the cloudy weather.

After another hour or so Coral Shores was finally in sight and David smiled. He was excited to surprise their parents. They hadn’t seen Jason in so long. When David finally reached Coral Shores he decided that he definitely needed to wake the two sleeping beauties.

“Rise and shine guys, we’re here.” David said loudly as he made his way into town. Amy was the only one who stirred as she was a light sleeper to begin with. She let out a small yawn as she blinked her eyes open.

“Morning Darling.” David smiled at her through the rear view mirror. She gave a small one back as she looked out the window at the changing scenery.

“Oh I’m so glad we’re here.” Came her excited reply and David nodded.

“So am I. Do me a favour? Won’t you wake up my brother?” David took a turn before giving his wife the puppy eyes.

“Sure, but keep your eyes on the road.”

Amy reached over the seat and gave Jason a tap to the face. When he didn’t move she grabbed his nose, cutting off his air. A few seconds later he started to splutter and struggle in his seat before he finally sat up with a gasp.

“What the fuck?’ he asked grumpily as he glared at David.

David gave a shrug. “Wasn’t me.”

Jason turned and glared at Amy, about to say something before she cut him off.

“We’re here.” She said, giving a faint smile.

Jason’s eyes widened before he glanced around them, smiling once he realised where he was.

“Wow!” Jason’s voice was filled with amazement. “It sure has changed a lot.”

“Yeah, it’s mostly a vacation town now, but a lot of people still live here.” David supplied.

Jason nodded before his eyes widened in surprise. “When did we get a mall?” he exclaimed.

Amy giggled as she stared at her bother-in-law. “I think they finished it sometime last year.”

“Maybe it’s time I moved back home.” Jason said jokingly.

“Oh mom will be absolutely thrilled.” David laughed.

A few more turns and their parents’ house came into view. David parked in the drive way next to the red pick-up truck, giving his brother a smile once he had turned off the car. “Welcome home big brother.”

Jason smiled as he got up, looking up at their childhood home. The three made their way up the porch steps and stopped in front of the door. Jason stepped in behind David, glad that they were similar in body height, as David knocked on the door. He smiled at his wife as footsteps were heard from inside the house.

“I’m coming.” A familiar voice called from behind the door.

A few seconds later the door opened and in front of them stood a tall and semi-muscular man. The hair atop his head had long since turned grey and the beard he was growing still had traces of brown in them.

Richard Warren stared in confusion at the pair in front of him, but nonetheless there was a smile on his face.

“David, Amy we were expecting you next week. What are you doing here?” he asked, brows furrowed.

“That was the plan, but we picked something up and couldn’t wait until next week to show you.” David replied, keeping his face straight. Amy was trying really hard not to laugh as she put her hand in front of her mouth.

“What are you talking about?” His father asked more confused than ever.

“See for yourself.” David smiled as he stepped aside, revealing his brother to their father.

Richard’s eyes widened and his mouth fell open as he saw his eldest standing in front of him.

“Oh my god, Jason! What are you doing here?” he took a step forward and quickly enveloped him in a hug.

“I can leave if you don’t want me here?’ Jason replied as he slowly started letting go of his dad.

“Shut up you smart ass.” Richard rolled his eyes at his son and let him go, looking him up and down.

“How’s your leg dad? I heard you fucked up the floor?” Jason gave a laugh and his father gave his shoulder a pat.

“You’re definitely your mother’s son.” Jason smirked at his brother as Amy stepped forward and gave their father a hug.

“Hey dad, shouldn’t you be resting your leg.” Amy asked with concern.

Richard chuckled as he let her go and gave her a smile. “I’m fine Amy, Doctor said it’s safe to walk.”

Amy nodded, biting her lip as she stepped aside, allowing David to give his father a hug.

“Why don’t you call mom, I don’t want to spoil anything.” David advised as he stepped back, giving his dad a smirk.

“Cherry darling, come here for a sec would ya?” he called back into the house, eyes once again on his eldest. He was very happy to see his child safe and home. Richard and his wife would often worry about their eldest son, whether he was safe or not.

“Yes dear?” their mother’s voice called from the house before appearing next to her husband.

As soon as she took in the scene in front of her, her mouth fell open and tears started to gather in her eyes.

“Hi mom.” Jason said smiling, stepping up to hug his mother. What he didn’t expect was for his mother to come running at him. Before he could react she was crashing into his body, wrapping her small arms around him as she sobbed.

“My baby is back safe.” She cried as Jason enveloped her in his arms.

“Yeah, I’m back and in one piece. Now can you stop crying mom, you’re gonna make me cry too.” Jason answered. She slowly let him go, wiping her face before she looked up at her son.

“I’m so glad you’re back, safe and sound.” She replied, hugging him once more.

David cleared his throat while Amy and Richard watched on with smiles.

“I’m here too mom.” David replied, stepping up to her side.

She briefly glanced up at him before turning back to Jason.

“Yeah, but you didn’t go off risking your life for five years, now did ya?” she asked. The whole family laughed as she let Jason go. She gave her youngest a smile before hugging him too.

“Don’t worry, I still love you.” She said before letting him go. Richard stepped up next to his wife and put his arm around his wife’s waist.

“Why don’t you bring your stuff in and get settled, we can catch up after.” Cherry suggested and the whole family voiced their agreement.

Jason and David got them quickly settled as they carried all the bags inside. Amy was in the kitchen, helping Cherry whip up some quick snacks. David smiled as he opened the door to his old room, it was now a guest room but it still held some good memories. When Jason entered his old room, he sighed, a smile on his face. It was good to be home.

The five got settled in the lounge shortly after, catching Jason up on everything that had happened over the past few years. From the smallest details to the biggest events. Cherry did most of the talking, gossiping about everyone Jason knew before he went away.

“-and Rachel’s been divorced twice. That poor girl, I hope she-”

“Honey, don’t you think it’s about time you got started on dinner?” Richard interrupted her, seeing how Jason was getting sick of the useless gossip she was sprouting. He loved his mom very much, but gossiping wasn’t for him.

“You’re right, look at the time. Amy dear, come help me would you?” Cherry asked as she spotted the time on the wall. It was nearing 5 and they were used to getting dinner early.

Amy nodded with a smile, getting a kiss from David on the cheek before she gathered up the mugs and followed her mother-in-law into the kitchen.

“Come on boys, why don’t we go outside?" Richard said, standing up and heading down the hallway. The brothers were quick to follow their father down the hall and out the back door. The porch had a perfect view of the beach. The waves crashing against the sand and people milling around, enjoying their day.

“It feels great to be home.” Jason sighed as he settled onto a sofa, laying back with his arms behind his head.

“How was your time away?” Richard asked. He was sat on the other sofa, eyes on his son.

“It was an interesting experience. I met a lot of people, learned a lot of new and useful things.” Came Jason’s answered, his eyes was closed as he enjoyed the small breeze

“Did you find what you were looking for?”  David was leaning over the railing, looking down at the backyard. Birds were heard as they flew overhead and occasionally you could hear the shout of a child on the beach. The most prominent sound was the crashing of the waves on the shore, a very calming sound to Jason. It reminded him of home.

That he was home.

“Maybe.”

A small silence enveloped the trio. It wasn’t awkward, if anything it was peaceful. It gave Jason time to enjoy the fresh air and smell of salt. It gave Richard time to be thankful that his child was safe and home and it gave David time to think. About what? He himself didn’t even know.

“Why don’t we go fishing tomorrow boys? Like old times.” Richard broke the silence, making both his sons turn to look at him.

“Coincidentally I was just talking to David’s neighbour yesterday about how much you love fishing.” Jason smiled and David soon followed.

“Ah, how is old Jim? Haven’t heard from him in a while.” Richard asked, eyes jumping to his youngest for an answer.

“He’s doing great. Mary caught a cold but she’s all better now. He sends his hellos.” David supplied as he turned around and leaned back with his elbows on the railing, supporting him.

“They’re such lovely people. Good man that Jim, should have brought him along David.” Richard remarked.

“I’ll bring him along next time.” David laughed, his father soon joining in.

“As for that fishing trip, sure why not. It’ll be like old times.”

Jason nodded his head in agreement, smiling. “I’m in.”

“That’s great. I’ll be right back, gotta go take my pills before your mother beats we with a wooden spoon.” The sons laughed as their father hurried inside.

A few minutes passed in silence while David looked out at the ocean. A small radio on the table caught Jason’s attention and he started tinkering with it, becoming confused when it wouldn’t pick up anything.

“Damn thing must be busted.” Jason furrowed his brows placing the radio on the table.

“What’s busted?” David enquired, turning around to look at his older brother.

“The radio, it isn’t picking up any signals.” Jason informs him, still looking at the radio.

“Odd.” David commented, turning back.

“You don’t say.” Jason muttered sarcastically. He started fiddling with the knobs on the radio once more.

“You smartass. It’s odd, because on our way here the car radio also had trouble picking up signals. I thought it was the weather, but the sky’s clear now.”

Jason stared confused at his brother before looking down at the small radio. “Maybe the broadcast tower was damaged in the storm.” He thought aloud, letting go of the radio once and for all.

“Maybe.” David shrugged.

The sound of the door opening behind them alerted them of the return of their father.

“What’s wrong boys?” Richard’s voice drifted through the air. Loud and clear.

 “Dad, was the broadcasting tower damaged during the storm?” Jason asked, turning to look up the older man.

“I’m not sure. Nobody has mentioned anything, but then again I don’t go into town that often.” Richard replied, taking his seat on the sofa again.

“Why don’t we go take a look tomorrow?” David suggested.

“Why would we go take a look?” David smiled at his brothers question.

“Because no one else will.”

“Can’t we just call someone?” Their father chuckled at his eldest.

“Oh son, you don’t know much. It’s gonna take weeks if we call someone. Just doing it ourselves saves time.”

“And money.” David added, turning and leaning on the railing.

“Well how the fuck are we supposed to repair a broadcasting tower?” Jason asked, puzzled.

“My first idea was just to hit it ‘till it works again.” Only their father laughed at David’s joke while Jason glared at him.

“Who’s the smartass now?”

“We could also ask Matthew about it. He’s a neighbour of ours and used to help build those towers.”

 “That could also work.” David shrugged with a smile, his eyes on his brother.

“You two haven’t changed at all.” Richard shook his head as he laughed at his sons.

“You love us all the same dad.” Jason replied back, laughing along.

“Alright smart asses, why don’t we go inside for di-”

“You three together really are a hand full.” Cherry interrupted her husband, eyes set on her sons.

The three smiled sheepishly at her and she just rolled her eyes.

“Just get inside already.” They hurried inside after one another, not wanting to get on Cherry’s bad side.

She stopped her husband before he could get inside, grabbing him by his upper arm.

“”It’s good to have the whole family together.” Cherry smiled up at him and Richard mirrored her expression.

“It really is.” He kissed her on the forehead.

“Can’t we just move them back in?” She asked hopefully as they started making their way inside.

Richard chuckled, giving his wife a small squeeze. “I wish darling, I wish.”

When they entered the dining room, their sons were staring at the table with wide eyes. The table was covered with all sorts of delicious foods. Steamed vegetables, cooked meat and freshly baked bread.

“Holy shit, it looks delicious.” Jason exclaimed, being the first to take a seat.

“Language Jason.” His mother scolded, but she was smiling as she stared at her son’s bewildered expression. “I thought to make a little bit more than usual, seeing as it’s been many years since we’ve all been together like this.” She ruffled his hair and took a seat next to her husband, who was sitting at the head of the table.

“Thanks mom, although you didn’t have to go out of your way like this.” Jason was still eyeing the food, but gave a quick smile to his mother. “It feels amazing to be home, surrounded by my family.” He looked at the people around him, thankful that he had a family who cared.

“Let’s dig in before mom starts crying.” David said, nodding his head at his brother before taking the other head of the table. Amy took the seat next to him and smiled at her brother-in-law.

Cherry chuckled as everyone started filling their plates with food, smiling at her husband. Her family was all here again, all together. She couldn’t be happier.

David looked around the table as everyone enjoyed themselves. The dinner went smoothly, laughter filled the dining room and it was the first time in years that the house had been filled with such joy.

As the room calmed down, Amy noticed her husband staring at his brother.

“What are you thinking about hon?” Amy asked as the rest fell silent.

“I was just thinking that as Jason’s brother, I should make a toast.” He replied, still looking at Jason.

“Lay it on us little brother.” Jason smirked, laying back in his seat with his arms crossed. Everyone turned to look at David as he stood up, raising his glass.

“Jason, it’s been five years since the last time we saw you and every night I would fall asleep thinking: Will I see him again? Whenever you sent a letter I would feel relieved, but there was always that voice in the back of my head worrying over you. When you called yesterday I was so happy. Happy that my brother was alive. Happy that he was coming home. And when I finally saw you, man, it was like a weight lifted off my chest. Because I could confirm with my own eyes that you were safe and alive and home. Seeing us al here together again, it warms my heart. My family hasn’t been together in a long time, and now here we are, all of us. We all love you brother, we’re happy you’re home. And we want it to stay that way.” Everybody chuckled as David raised his glass higher and then they soon followed.

“To my brother, thank you for surviving.”

“Here! Here!”

Everyone cheered and took a swig of their drinks. Cherry had tears in her eyes as she held onto her husband’s hand, Amy herself was tearing up a bit and Jason could only smile brightly at his brother.

After that the boys decided clean up while the woman drank tea in the living room. Soon after they had finished, Cherry and Amy retired to their rooms, calling out goodnights as they left.

Richard and his sons stayed in the living room and talked for a few more minutes, until their father decided to go to bed as well.

“Don’t stay up to late boys, we have a full program tomorrow. The broadcasting tower isn’t too far from here and the hunting lodge is just out of town.” He called as he walked up the stairs.

“We should turn in for the night ourselves, I’m beat.” David yawned, stretching back onto the couch.

“It’s like you read my mind brother, I’m stuffed.” The two chuckled as they slowly got up.

“Night little brother.” David watched as Jason disappeared upstairs, letting out another yawn. He did a quick check around the house, making sure everything is locked.

When he was sure that the house was locked he finally went to his room, turning off lights as he went.

He entered the room quietly, not wanting to disturb his wife. He quickly got undressed, leaving most of his clothes on the small chair in the corner of the room and pulled on a clean pair of boxers. David was just about to get in bed when something caught his attention.

The curtain wasn’t closed correctly and light shined in from outside. He pulled the curtain opened and narrowed his eyes as he saw smoke in the distance. It looked far away, and wasn’t all that big. Just to be safe David reached for his phone, dialling 911.

“You have reached the 911 emergency helpline, unfortunately all lines are busy at the moment please try again later.” After that the line cut dead and David stared at his phone, confused. Maybe somebody already reported the fire, could be why all the lines are busy.

At least it’s not close to us, David thought, putting his phone away. He crawled into bed, snuggling closer to his wife.

“Something wrong?” Amy asked drowsily.

“Did I wake you?” David asked as he put his arms around her. She turned in his arms to look at him.

“Just a little.” She said with a smile.

He sighed as he settled into bed, holding her just a little tighter.

“There’s a fire somewhere outside the city. I called 911 but all the lines are busy.” David answered her after a while. Amy had almost fallen asleep when her husband had finally replied to her question.

“Mmm, weird.” Amy hummed.

Yeah, a lot of weird stuff has been happening, David thought.

 “Oh, by the way. Your mother and I are going into to town tomorrow to go do some shopping.” Amy snuggled closer into his chest as she said this, voice just a little muffled.

“That’s sounds nice. We’re planning on going to fish tomorrow, at the hunting lodge out of town. I don’t know when we’ll be back.” David answered. He let out a yawn as his eyes started to droop.

“Just give us a call tomorrow to let us know when you’ll be back. You guys will probably be starving.” Amy herself was slowly starting to drift off.

“I will. Goodnight.” David’s voice echoed in the quiet room and when he looked down he saw his wife already asleep.

He could only smile as he drifted off himself.

A few hours later a scream ripped through the air. David woke up with a start, sitting upright in bed as the scream continued to ring through the air. Amy was shaken awake by the movement of her husband and they both looked at each other.

Before they could say anything a gunshot echoed through the air, making the couple look wide-eyed at each other.

David hurried out of bed, adrenaline pumping through his veins.

Who was screaming?

Was mom okay?

Dad?

What about Jason?

A million thoughts ran through his head, making it hard to focus on just one. Just as he reached for the handle, the door shot open.