Chapter 23

I gave her what I hoped was a reassuring smile before I whipped out my set of keys and turned the lock. I released a slightly shaky breath from my lips before pushing the heavy wooden door open before stepping into the foyer. There was a light roar of noise created by multiple voices talking all at once coming from what I knew to be the kitchen as a sense of belonging warmed my chest for the first time in what felt like a lifetime. Home. God, I missed this place so much. "Wait, do you hear that?" my mother's familiar voice floated to me after she'd successfully shushed everyone. I closed my eyes, fighting off the sting in my eyes at the familiar sound of her voice in person, not just over the phone. I missed her so much. I heard footsteps quickly approaching and stepped in front of Dani to shield her from my mother's immediate view. "Oh my God, my baby!" my mom yelled before practically mauling me. I laughed while accepting her smothering hold and endless chee