The car Alaric was riding in finally pulled into the driveway. The atmosphere felt familiar, though unusually quiet. Understandable, since he had been out all day. Robin quickly got out from behind the wheel to open the door, but Alaric had already pushed it open himself. He wanted this moment of coming home to feel natural, not overly formal.
On the front porch, a woman who still looked quite young stood waiting for him. Her black hair was neatly combed, and the casual homewear she had on reflected the warmth of a mother.
Her face radiated unconditional love for her only son. Her gaze always welcomed Alaric with a pride that never seemed to fade.
"You're home, sweetheart," his mother said as soon as she saw him.
Alaric stepped closer, holding up the cake box he had been carrying. "I brought you something, Mom."
Her smile instantly grew wider. She accepted the box with care, as though it held something precious, even though it was just a cake.
