**Cross**
"Cross, it's so good to see you," Uncle Tom's wife, Anna, ushered me into the living room as one of their staff members brought my bag inside. "I've missed you so much."
I almost rolled my eyes. She was well aware I didn't like coming here, and she was rubbing it in my face.
"Cross, my boy," Uncle Tom finally made an appearance. He reached for me and enveloped me in a hug. "It's so good to see you, kiddo."
"Thank you," I replied simply, not bothering to return his smile.
"Razor said you could sleep over and return tomorrow."
"Yes, yes, thank you for the opportunity, Uncle."
His eyes widened in surprise as he wondered if I was being genuine. Truly, I was. Because of him, I had the opportunity to meet up with Kira later tonight.
"There's something different about you today, Cross?" he wondered aloud, his curious gaze searching my face.
