Alec was sprawled out on his bed, bare feet swinging in the air as his eyes wandered across the ceiling. His backpack rested in the corner — full of possibilities — but he hadn't started packing yet. The idea of leaving filled him with excitement — a light sensation, almost like escaping something that no longer held him back.
For Alec, life was never about standing still. That restless fire inside him always pushed him to explore, to chase the new, to dive headfirst into endless adventures.
Another adventure, he thought with a smile.
But then his gaze drifted to the wall, where a framed family photo hung. His chest tightened. Pretending not to care was easier, but in that photo, doubt started to bloom. Was he really ready to take this step?
The doorbell rang, snapping him out of his thoughts.
He jumped up and headed for the door. He wasn't expecting anyone, but when he opened it, there stood his mother — wearing that look that could see right through him.
— "Alec, have you started packing yet?" she asked, her voice both gentle and firm.
He tried to hide his nerves with a light laugh, avoiding her eyes.
— "Of course, I'm just… planning it all out."
But he knew she wouldn't buy it. His mom had always been one of the few people who truly saw him.
She stepped into the room, concern gently glowing in her eyes.
— "You're going to miss this place, you know?" she said softly, as if she already knew the storm swirling in his mind.
He let out a nervous chuckle, still trying to keep his cool.
— "I'm a world guy, Mom. I'll be fine."
His voice wavered for a second, but he covered it up.
She came closer and rested a hand on his shoulder.
— "No matter where you go, Alec, I'll always be here, waiting for you. Don't forget that, okay?"
He stayed silent, the lump in his throat tightening. He'd never been one to show much emotion, but in that moment, the weight of what was coming felt almost unbearable.
— "I know, Mom. Don't worry."
He gave her a crooked smile, trying to mask the emotion.
— "Now let me get back to this before someone notices I'm stalling."
She looked at him for a moment, tenderly, then gave him a kiss on the forehead with a smile.
— "Go for it, Alec. Just remember — the world is huge, but we'll always have each other."
He took a deep breath, trying to swallow the lump, and smiled.
— "Got it. I'll be back soon. Promise."
She left, and Alec turned back to the backpack — now feeling that maybe, just maybe, he was ready.
Or at least willing to try.
The adventure was just beginning.