When we make it back to the Oasis, my family is of the first ones to greet us. My mother cries as my father awkwardly tries not to cry but when my mother asks "Where have you been? When you three got separated, Hunter waited for you two back here but you never came back! He went out with several others to look for you but they couldn't find your trail. Are you okay? You look so much thinner... have you been eating?"
I struggle to keep the tears out of my eyes as I look at my mother and silently nod my head 'Yes' Her smile slowly starts to fade as she looks me over again and moves closer "What's wrong Valerie?"
My father looks over with a frown of concern as my brother stops pouting. They both move closer as I tilt my head to the side a little with a strained smile. Why am I so emotional lately!? Tears soon overflow from my eyes as I look to my family and struggle to keep smiling.
