28. Bitter words

Sebastian fidgets with the hem of his hoodie instead of eating, observing the awkward atmosphere around himself. He glances towards his mother who is busy serving pancakes for his father. His own portion lies idly as he waits for his parents to settle down.

He's on high alert, still trying to come up with an explanation as to why his mother decided to have breakfast together as a family today? Instead of gulping down the fresh orange juice placed in front of him, he gulps down his saliva, attempting to get away from the judgmental glare of his father.

He doesn't remember when the last time he sat down with his family and had meals. It feels like ancient time. Over the past few months, he had always wished for a day when he would be accepted by his family and be loved the same again. If he knew getting back together and sharing a meal would be so awkward, he wouldn't nurture that wish.

"Why aren't you eating?" His mother asks, stabbing her pancake with a knife.

Sebastian hesitantly