He knocked loudly on the door to the family’s apartment, waiting for the familiar sound of scraping locks to usher him in. Before long, Joel stood in the doorway with a welcoming smile, which soon changed to a look of concern after taking in his dishevelled appearance.
‘Callum, you’ve returned. Quickly, come in.’
They immediately retired to the living room where Laina was breastfeeding Rebecca whilst Kai greedily ate his breakfast, occasionally spilling the contents of his bowl on the dingy wooden table.
‘Kai, how many times have I asked you to slow down whilst eating?’ said Laina, before casting her gaze towards him.
‘Welcome back Callum, we are thankful for your safe return. How was your tri--’ Laina began to ask, before noticing the bruises and scrapes across his hands and face.
