Chapter 9: Returning Home
Kaizer closed his eyes as he digested the events that had just occurred, also 'hearing' the suspicion of Officer James as he left. He couldn't help but feel somewhat irritated but also understood that he was no actor, and even the ability to read the minds of others couldn't guarantee a perfect response.
Realistically, he had done the best he could since his goal was not to reveal his... awakening. He knew too little to make any sort of informed decision about this new world that had opened up to him, so his first objective was to understand himself and where he stood, then understand the world and, once again, where he stood.
"Kaizer, are you okay? How are you feeling?" Charlene came over to ask now that the officials had left.
"I'm pretty much fine, Mom. A little hungry. Let's head home so I can get something to eat," Kaizer opened his eyes and requested with a smile.
Keith patted his shoulder. "No need to act tough, son. If you're scared, just let us know."
"Hey, you're allowed to act tough, Dad, but I can't? How is that fair?" Kaizer teased his father.
Keith coughed. "That's different. I have to for my job. Fine, fine, since you want to, let's go home. It will be safer there anyway, and your aunt, as well as your cousin, are worried about you."
Charlene rolled her eyes. Normally, it was she, the mother, who was supposed to cave in easily and spoil her son, but this fellow was even thinner-skinned than she was. If Kaizer pushed slightly, he might even buy him a slot at the presidency itself!
"Thanks, Dad," Kaizer responded softly, resting for a bit while his father handled the discharge procedures.