The airport was crowded, the hum of conversations blending with the sound of rolling suitcases and distant announcements. You clutched your backpack strap a little tighter, nerves twisting in your stomach as you scanned the sea of unfamiliar faces. Then, you saw them—the Parker family.

Mrs. Parker was the first to spot you, her warm smile growing as she waved enthusiastically. Mr. Parker stood beside her, tall and sturdy, giving off a reassuring presence. Next to them was their daughter, a girl your age with bright eyes and an excited expression, practically bouncing on her heels.

And then there was him.

The older boy, Jaden, stood slightly apart from the rest, arms crossed over his chest, his jaw tight. His dark eyes met yours for a brief moment before he looked away, disinterested, as if your arrival was nothing more than an inconvenience.

You swallowed hard.

“Welcome!” Linda the mother, greeted, pulling you into a quick hug. “We’re so happy to have you here!”

Her daughter Luna, nodded eagerly. “Yeah! I can’t wait to show you around!”

You smiled, trying to push past the lingering unease. “Thank you. I’m really excited to be here.”

As the family chattered around you, leading you toward the exit, you risked another glance at the older boy. He walked a few steps behind, hands shoved in his pockets, his gaze fixed ahead.

This was going to be interesting.