Chapter 22

Kanan lay in bed that night. The conflict seemed like a distant memory-relieved that everything had settled down. He groaned as he realized he had forgotten to draw the curtains. Kanan was the type, unable to sleep if his windows weren't closed and curtains drawn. He returned to his bed, hoping to get some rest. Just as Kanan settled back under the covers, his phone rang, breaking the silence of the night. He reached for it on the bedside table and answered.

"Hey honey, Nathaniel greeted him warmly. "Or would you prefer to be called sweetheart or babe? Maybe a cute nickname: Kanibear, Nathaniel's Sugarpie."

"Nathaniel's sugarpie? Really?" Kanan teased, a smile playing on his lips. "Babe works just fine,"

"I miss you, babe," Nathaniel said. Kanan reciprocated the sentiment, even though it hadn't been long since they parted. "What are you up to?"

"In bed,"

"You're in bed," Nathaniel replied, his tone a hint of playfulness. "I wish you could cuddle up next to me right now," He confessed. "How was your day? Did you have dinner?"

"My day was great. Ayana cooked us dinner." Kanan enjoyed those simple questions. They made him feel valued and showed Nathaniel's interest in his well-being. "How about you?" Kanan asked. "Also, I should spend some time with Kaelan and Ayana. They came all this way but haven't been able to enjoy the trip yet. You should join us," He added.

"My day has been great," Nathaniel replied. "And I wouldn't want to intrude,"

"It's a well-deserved outing. We all should go on a trip." Kanan suggested.

"I'll let you plan the details," Nathaniel agreed. "Speaking of, Kaelan stopped by."

"That was his intention all along," Kanan sighed, realizing Kaelan's intention behind taking the car key. "What did he say?"

"He gave me that promised beat-down,"

"That-"

"I'm kidding," Nathaniel interjected. "He just told me how close you guys are and that I should take good care of you. Wishing Emily and me happiness from here on out." Kanan was relieved to hear that. "You have a good brother." Nathaniel paused. "I spoke with Gina," Kanan sat up in his bed. "Turns out I was scared for nothing. We're planning on meeting up one day."

"I'm happy for you," Kanan said. "Friendships are to be valued." He experienced the heartbreaking loss of his best friend- someone who was like family to him. Kanan held genuine happiness for Nathaniel and Gina, understanding the importance of treasuring friendship. That they could reconnect as it was something Kanan no longer had the opportunity to do. Kanan also understood that there are times when friendships become water under the bridge, but for Nathaniel and Gina, he saw it as a bitter loss. There was a lot that they had to say, emotions that they had to get across, and things only they could understand. "How's Gina?"

"She's doing good," Nathaniel answered. Kanan could hear the relief in his voice. "Kaelan invited me over for dinner with your parents?"

Kanan looked at his bedroom door, wondering how much Kaelan said. It was no wonder he was late bringing the ketchup home. "There he goes, ruining my opportunity to invite you for dinner with my parents."

"Did I say something?" Nathaniel said, acting confused.

Kanan noticed his attempt to erase the invite from his mind, resulting in a chuckle from him. "Nathan, would you like to join me for dinner with my parents?"

"I would like that," He answered. "But I'm feeling nervous already."

"Don't worry," Kanan assured him. "My dad has already been looking forward to meeting you. He even told me to invite you over before."

"Now I have to make sure I make a good impression."

"Just be yourself. Be the Nathan I know and love."

~~

As Nathaniel got ready for dinner with Kanan's parents, he experienced a flurry of emotions. Having dinner with them felt exciting and nerve-racking. Nathaniel wanted to make a good impression. He carefully selected his outfit, wanting to look polished and feel comfortable. As he drove to Kanan's apartment, Emily carried the gift he carefully prepared since he didn't want to arrive empty-handed. His thoughts swirled with topics to discuss, wondering what they'd be like and whether they would like him. Nathaniel parked, taking a deep breath, steeling himself for the encounter ahead.

"Are you ready?" Emily asked, exiting the car.

"No," Nathaniel replied. "But I have to be."

"Come on," Emily slapped him on the back for encouragement. "You're not the only one who's nervous. Look at my hands." Nathaniel looked at her trembling hands that clutched the handles of the gift bag. "What's the worst that could happen?"

"You're here," Kanan greeted upon opening the door, hugging Nathaniel. His eyes flickered to Emily and immediately complimented her attire.

Entering the apartment, a woman of petite stature and flawless complexion showcased a sense of youth despite her age. Her dark, bouncy hair flowed in a short bob, framing her face. Her dark brown eyes sparkling with kindness greeted him. "It's so nice to meet you, Nathaniel," She greeted him warmly, pulling Nathaniel into her world with a welcoming gaze. "I've heard so much about you." She hesitated as she extended her arms to hug Nathaniel, but he took the initiative and welcomed the hug, feeling a sense of warmth in her embrace.

"It's nice to put a face to the name," A man of sturdy build, standing tall with an air of respect. He sported a low cut with a neatly trimmed beard. His smile softened his serious demeanor, revealing his warm personality. He greeted Nathaniel with a firm handshake. "I'm Vince, Kanan's father. And this lovely lady here who forgot to give her your name is Diana."

Diana chuckled, "I got too excited," She confessed. "I'm Kanan's mother. And you must be Emily." Diana extended her warm welcome to Emily as well.

"We got you something," Emily said, offering the gift they bought.

"You didn't have to," Diana said, graciously accepting the gift. "Speaking of gifts. I got a little something on my way here. I saw this, and I couldn't pass it up." She added. "When Ayana told me about you, I thought it would be perfect." She pulled Emily along.

Nathaniel noticed Kaelan and Ayana setting the table for dinner. The aroma from the kitchen filled the air, heightening his anticipation for the meal. Kaelan called over his dad to help out, leaving Kanan and Nathaniel. He couldn't help but feel grateful for the welcoming atmosphere. His nervousness had washed away, and he felt more relaxed. "Mom's always like that. She often sees "cute" things that she buys that she obviously can't give to us. Ayana normally gets them. She's just happy to have another person to give them to." Kanan slipped his hands into Nathaniel's, closing the gap between them as they stood side by side. "Are they anything like you expected?"

"Just as I imagined," Nathaniel replied. "Loving parents, but your dad was a bit intimidating at first."

"They act like that; you wouldn't think twice that they're divorced." Kanan said. Nathaniel was shocked by the revelation. Their interactions flowed with ease. Nathaniel couldn't possibly discern that they were no longer married. Nathaniel admired their ability to coexist harmoniously. He could only imagine how their relationship morphed into friendship, navigating the new dynamic and coming together when needed. The fact that they rushed here upon hearing news of Kanan's panic attack proved their desire to prioritize their children's wellbeing above all else. A tinge of jealousy formed within Nathaniel at the thought. "Did I forget to tell you?"

"Honestly, I'm a bit jealous," Nathaniel admitted. He couldn't help but feel jealousy as he watched the affectionate exchange between the close-knit family. It was a bittersweet reminder of something he had not experienced. "Of your family."

"You're a part of the family now," Kanan said, pulling Nathaniel from his thoughts. He turned to see Kanan with a soft smile on his face, thankful for his words. "Let's enjoy this moment."

~~

The aroma of the delicious meal filled the air as he settled down at the dinner table. An array of mouth-watering dishes adorned the table, each one tempting. As Nathaniel took the first bite, he couldn't help but sigh in contentment. He was confident in his skills, but the meal before him was a testament to the culinary techniques of Diana and Ayana, who took the time to prepare the meal. Around him, laughter and conversation flowed as they shared stories and caught up on each other's lives. They expressed genuine interest in getting to know Nathaniel as he did for them. Each interaction, smile, and nod of understanding solidifies his sense of acceptance into Kanan's family.

As the evening unfolded, Nathaniel found himself on the couch, Kanan beside him. Despite his initial nervousness, he felt at ease watching them play a board game. "Stop cheating!" Kaelan exclaimed.

Ayana and Emily exchanged a triumphant high-five, celebrating Emily's successful revenge against Kaelan's earlier attack. "I'm glad she's enjoying herself," Nathaniel said as he watched with a smile.

"She should," Kanan replied. Despite his low tolerance for alcohol, he decided to have a taste of the wine Nathaniel gifted his parents, which they popped open at dinner. He wanted to have a drink to celebrate such a joyous occasion, resulting in him being unable to participate in the board game and Nathaniel keeping his company. "We should enjoy ourselves too."

Nathaniel knew the alcohol was talking as Kanan's hand, hidden out of sight, caressed his skin softly. "I would rather have you sober," Nathaniel whispered. "And then get you drunk off of me." Kanan erupted in sweet laughter, garnering looks from the others. "Let's keep it family-friendly for now and enjoy this moment. We'll have plenty of time for each other later."

"At least a kiss," Kanan requested. Nathaniel gave him a short kiss, soothing Kanan's need for now.

"Nathaniel, leave that lightweight fool and join us for a round," Kaelan shouted across the room. "No one told him to drink, so just leave him alone."

"Should I?" Nathaniel said playfully.

"Shut up!" Kanan said to Kaelan. "You're just upset that you're losing and have no one to team up with."

Kaelan gave a warning stare, looking for something to throw at Kanan, but couldn't find anything. "You coming?" He asked, secretly flipping off Kanan, ensuring their parents weren't looking.

"Go ahead," Kanan told him. "I'm fine. I didn't drink that much. I need to cool off, and you being here is not helping. Go, have fun, but pretend to be on Kaelan's side. Don't let him win." He lowered his voice as he finished.

As Nathaniel joined them at the table, he immersed himself in the game, his attention drifting to Kanan. Admits moments of being deeply engrossed in the game, coming down from the rush of excitement, his eyes would instinctively seek out Kanan. Their love surpassed his wildest dreams. Nathaniel felt an overwhelming sense of happiness, knowing he had found his happily ever after. With unwavering certainty, he believed that he had won at life, eagerly anticipating the countless moments they would share in the future.

For Nathaniel, parents have always been a sensitive topic. It evoked hurt and disappointment, a reminder of their strained relationship. Knowing he shared blood with people without a moral compass made him feel ashamed and embarrassed. "Ahh, this is family." Nathaniel thought-A place where one could be themselves and still find love and support. Despite the clashes of personalities and disagreements, they were ready to fight for each other at any given moment. Family, with all its complexities, was something to be cherished, working through thick and thin.

Nathaniel realized that in losing one thing, he gained something significant: a love like no other and the warmth and acceptance of family and it was all thanks to Kanan. That night led to an encounter that created a lifetime filled with love.