Chapter 6

"You're finally home."

As soon as I set foot in the mansion, my mom pounced on me, enveloping me in a tight embrace. Her familiar scent instantly made me feel like I was home.

"Mom," I managed to squeeze out, trying to catch my breath as I gently pushed her away. "How have you been?"

She released her grip on me and gave me a warm smile. "I've been doing well. You look so different from the last time I saw you. When was that again?"

I bit my lip, avoiding her gaze. It had been a long time since I had visited. "Last Christmas?"

"Has it been that long?!" Mom exclaimed, her eyes widening. "You haven't been to New York since last Christmas? No wonder you've changed so much. I didn't realize how much time had passed."

"Yeah, I didn't either. I've been consumed with work and everything."

Just then, my dad emerged from the kitchen wearing a blue apron, which he had on backwards. I struggled to keep a straight face. "Amari, you've finally foun