Living the Future

Chapter 3 - Awkward dinner.

“Where have you been?” Mom asked while I sat at the dinner table.

“Sleeping.” I said as I reached over and grabbed a roll.

“Josh.” My mom said sternly.

“What? I don’t feel like partying.” I said ripping pieces off my roll and eating them.

“It was for the family. Your aunt Hermia put a lot of work into that party.” Mom said and I groaned.

“I’m tired. We spent like a whole day traveling here just to hang around with people we haven’t seen in years.” I tossed the half eaten roll onto the plate. Just then Andy and Lydia came in and sat down.

“Where’s Bari?” Lydia asked.

“He’s with Liam and a few friends. They’re going to have a run before they leave.” My mom said.

“That sounds cool. Why weren’t we invited?” I asked.

“Maybe because you and Daisy lounged in your room for the rest of the day.” Andy said with a laugh.

“Joshy!” My mom said.

“We weren’t in there all day!” I said and I heard my dad try to contain his laughter.

“Really Lee? You’re not going to do anything about your son?” My mom said.

“Josh don’t be alone with girls.” My dad said as a server filled his plate.

“Lee that’s not what I meant! Did you hear the way he talked to me?” My mom said and my dad sighed.

“I’m sorry Hannah I didn’t. I was talking to James. They’re going to be here in a moment.” My dad said.

“On no, is Henry coming too?” I asked.

“Joshy you’re going to be his beta. The least you can do is make a effort to get along.” My mom said and I sighed.

“You’ve been a pain in the *ss since we got here Josh.” Lydia said.

“I’m sorry if I can’t fake a smile as well as you Liddie.” I said annoyed.

“Well try!” My mom firmly said. The doors opened and Uncle James came in.

“James! There you are.” My dad stood up and they hugged.

“Sorry we’re late. Hermia couldn’t decide on a outfit.” James said sitting next to me. “How are you Joshy?” Uncle James rubbed my head and I swatted at his hand.

“I’m fine, don’t call me Joshy.” I said and he laughed.

“I remember when you insisted that was your name.” James looked at my parents and they laughed.

“He doesn’t like it darling so don’t do it anymore.” I heard Aunt Hermia as she walked past everyone and hugged my mom. “Where’s Arnie? I thought he was joining us?” Aunt Hermia said as she came back and sat by uncle James.

“Dad is with mom. They’re trying to get things settled in the new house.” Andy said looking at aunt Hermia.

“House? Oh thats right. I forgot Shay wanted them to live in their own house for once.” Aunt Hermia said. “Does that old contract still apply?” She asked looking at dad.

“Technically, but I’ve never followed it. It’s been so long since anyone has even thought about coming after us, I think we’ll be fine.” My dad said as my mom nodded.

“Where’s Henry?” I asked and James pat my back.

“He’s with Bari and Liam.” Uncle James said and I scoffed.

“Why wasn’t I invited!” I said and everyone looked at me.

“Don’t you feel embarrassed when you whine like a child?” Lydia scowled at me.

“I’m not whining!” I snapped back.

“Don’t worry, there will be more runs in the future.” My dad said.

“So, Andy.” My aunt Hermia changed the subject. “Have you anything in my mind you want for your birthday?” Hermia asked.

“Nothing really.” Andy replied.

“My gosh he is just like your brother.” Uncle James whispered.

“Right? Even following around a girl.” Hermia tried to whisper. I stared at them and they noticed.

“So Joshy, are you excited to start training tomorrow?” Uncle James grabbed my shoulder.

“Not really.” I said.

“JOSH!” My mom scolded.

“Sorry brother, he’s been ornery since leaving eclipse.” Lee said.

“You may look like your father, but you act like your mother.” Uncle James said with a laugh.

“James we talked about this.” Hermia said in a low warning tone.

“Alright, I’m sorry. I know that was over twenty years ago.” Uncle James looked around the table.

“Thank you, my children don’t really want to hear about your scorned past.” My mom said as I heard my phone buzz. I pulled it out and looked at the screen. A message from Daisy.

“Josh no phones at the table.” My dad called to me as I opened it and read it to myself.

“I’m bored. Come hang out with me.” It read and I quickly replied.

“Anything to get out of this awkward dinner.” And hit send.

“JOSH! Your father is speaking to you.” My mom said.

“Sorry your majesty. I have a prior engagement.” I said sarcastically and got up. I stuffed my phone in my pocket and started for the door. Before I could reach it, I hit a barrier.

“Josh.” My mom said.

“Oh come on mom.” I said tapping it. They were always too strong to break.

“Apologize to your father.” My mom said and I turned.

“Sorry. Happy?” I said and she lowered her hand and scoffed.

“You are on thin ice mister.” My mom said.

“Just let him go mom. We’ll have a much more pleasant meal with out him.” Lydia said and I glared.

“Bye.” I said walking out the door.