Chapter 120: The Journey Home
Little Zami sat eagerly between Mira and Zamian in the back of the car, her small hands bouncing with excitement. That morning, Mira had told her they were finally leaving Grandpa’s apartment and heading to their main home. Zami’s wide eyes sparkled as she imagined what it would be like, barely able to contain herself. She had so many questions, but she knew it wouldn’t be long now before they arrived.
The drive felt endless to Zami, but her parents seemed lost in their own thoughts. Zamian, focused on his iPad, scrolled through something with intent. Mira, on the other hand, kept glancing at her phone, but her mind wasn’t on what was on the screen. She thought of her old friend Lily. It had been five years since they’d last seen each other, and Mira couldn’t help but wonder how things had been with Lily and James. They’d been close when they were younger, but over time, distance had crept in. Would their reunion be awkward, or would they slip right back into their old dynamic? Mira knew one thing for sure—Zamian wasn’t one to keep up with others. He’d probably just shrug if she asked him about it.
Still, despite the busy thoughts, Mira couldn’t help but smile. She was looking forward to introducing Zami to Lily. It would be nice for them to reconnect, to have a little piece of her past close by once again. She turned to Zami, who was still bouncing with energy.
"Are you ready to see our real home, sweetheart?" Mira asked with a smile.
Zami looked up at her, her face lighting up. She nodded eagerly, her excitement practically bursting from her.
"Yes, Mummy!" Zami’s voice was filled with a joy that only a child’s innocence could carry.
Mira chuckled softly, her heart swelling at the sight of her daughter’s enthusiasm. She placed a gentle hand on Zami’s knee, a gesture of comfort and love. She felt lucky to have this moment with her family. Things hadn’t always been easy, but in this small, simple moment, everything felt perfect.
Zami suddenly looked up at Mira, her brow furrowed with curiosity. "Mummy, what about Great Grandpa? When is he coming?"
Mira smiled warmly at her daughter’s thoughtful question. It had been hard on Zami to leave Grandpa’s apartment behind, but she knew her daughter had taken to their new home well. Still, Grandpa was a big part of Zami’s life, and the little girl missed him already.
"Grandpa won’t be coming right away, sweetheart," Mira replied gently, her voice soft with understanding. "But he’ll visit us once in a while. He’ll be here for sure this Christmas."
Zami’s eyes widened at the thought of Grandpa visiting. "Really?"