When I got home, Dad was standing near the door as if he arrived recently as well. He had on a different outfit from the one he left in, so I asked if they gave them new uniforms. He said he was finally able to finish that project he’d been working on and got a promotion! They moved him to the civil planning team, gave him a fabricator for the house, and a nice bonus.
“That’s what’s up! Congrats, Dad!”
“Thanks. It’ll be nice to have a little extra money when I retire now.
I knew if I said what I wanted to say, he would shut me down, but I had to try.
“You know… I’ve made a little more than §3,000 from my classes. And you know Mama gave me some money. I can help out now.”
“I know, and I appreciate the thought. Keep your money. You’re gonna need it when you leave here.”
“Okay, but if you change your mind…”
“I won’t.”
And that was that.
The next morning, I went to the spa as per usual and started a guided meditation. Mama sent me a text saying she missed me and wanted me to have a great day.
She could be a lot sometimes, but I loved her check-ins. It was a kind reminder that there was someone out there who loved me no matter what.
Dereck Jang was in the class. I hadn’t seen him since I was in high school, so I asked how he’d heard about classes at this spa, especially because he was still in San Myshuno. He said he’d seen me all over Social Bunny talking about yoga and these classes and decided to come check me out.
Chi Chi was also in attendance and hugged me, asking how I was doing. She also invited us to Harvestfest at their house tomorrow if we didn’t have plans. I was pretty sure we were free, seeing as I didn’t make plans and Dad barely had a social life. I accepted her invitation and asked if I could bring a dish since he was a vegetarian.
“Of course! I’m sure Eleanor wouldn’t mind.”
Going to her house meant seeing Karmine again. I’d better take stock of my life and make sure I have nothing to hide and prepare for another interrogation, heh.
