Alyssa entered the house, carrying the faint scent of the ocean and the echo of Marcel's words in her heart.
The warm glow of the living room lamp beckoned her in, revealing her parents sitting on the couch, a sight that never failed to warm her heart.
They were the bane of her existence and she did not play when it came to them. For her, family was everything.
"Hey guys," she greeted, as she walked further into the living room area, placing her bag on the table. "Is every one okay?"
Her mother, Alice Stone smiled, her eyes twinkling.
"Just waiting for our favorite girl to tell us about her day," she replied, patting the cushion beside her.
Alyssa excitedly settled in, a comfortable warmth spreading through her.
It was moments like these, simple and honest, that grounded her most.
