The sun was low on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Reed household as they gathered in the living room. The air felt lighter than it had in weeks, with the tension of Trevor's debt finally behind them. Marcus sat on the couch, his hands folded in his lap, trying to process the whirlwind of events over the past few days. The fight, the repayment, and now—what came next?
Angela sat at the head of the dining table, flipping through a notebook. "Well, it's about time we started planning for what's coming up next. Marcus, you're heading back to college soon, and we need to figure out how we're handling all of this."
Marcus leaned back, arms crossed over his chest. "Yeah, I've been thinking a lot about that. When I go back to school, I'll be living on campus this year. It's a better setup for me to focus on both school and training. That commute I had last year... it was too much, especially with everything going on."
Angela gave him a knowing nod. "Good. Campus housing will cut down on all that back and forth. And you'll have more access to the things you need."
Ron leaned forward, arms resting on his knees. "So, have you scoped out a place to train nearby? You can't let your skills slip just because you're away."
"Yeah," Marcus said, giving a small smile. "There's a gym not far from campus. It's smaller, but it's got a decent rep. They focus on developing amateurs, so I'll be in good hands. The equipment's solid, and they've got trainers who'll push me. It's not as intense as here with you, but it'll keep me sharp."
Ron grinned with pride, his face lighting up. "That's what I like to hear. You've got to keep grinding, Marcus. But remember—school comes first. Boxing's your passion, but education? That'll keep your options open."
Marcus nodded firmly. "I know, Dad. I've got a plan. I'm going to balance both, even if it's tough. It'll be worth it in the end."
Trevor sat on the far side of the room, leaning back in his chair, listening quietly. He had been more withdrawn than usual, but the relief from settling his debt had lifted a huge burden. He cleared his throat. "You're going to kill it at college, Marcus. Balancing school and boxing? It's a lot, but if anyone can handle it, you can."
Marcus glanced at Trevor, feeling the weight of his brother's words. "Thanks, Trevor. It means a lot. But what about you? Have you thought about moving back here for a while?"
Trevor hesitated before speaking, shifting uncomfortably in his seat. "Yeah, I've been thinking about that. I mean, with everything that's happened, moving back home would give me some breathing room. Rent's been killing me, and I want to spend more time with Zachary. Being here would help me save up for a better future for him."
Angela, still flipping through her notebook, paused and looked up. "Trevor, that sounds like a good move. You've got to think long-term, and staying here will help you reset. We've got space, and it'll take the pressure off you financially."
Trevor sighed deeply, nodding. "Yeah... I think it's the best option right now. I've been struggling, but being here would give me time to focus on Zachary and figure out my next steps."
Marcus added his thoughts. "It's the right move, man. You've done so much already, working yourself to the bone for your son. But if you stay here, you'll have time to figure out your next move without constantly worrying about rent."
Ron spoke up, his voice firm but warm. "We're all behind you, Trevor. Whatever you need, we'll help you get back on track. Don't worry about pride. You've got a family here that's ready to support you."
Trevor's eyes softened, and he smiled, the tension that had been etched on his face for weeks finally fading. "Thanks, Dad. I appreciate it. It hasn't been easy, but I'll take this opportunity to get my feet back under me."
Zachary, who had been playing with his toy cars on the floor, looked up at his dad. "Daddy, are we gonna stay here with Grandma and Grandpa?"
Trevor chuckled, scooping his son up into his arms. "Yeah, buddy. We're gonna stay here for a while. You'll get to spend more time with Grandpa Ron and Uncle Marcus."
Zachary's eyes lit up. "Yay! Uncle Marcus, are you gonna play with me before you leave?"
Marcus smiled, ruffling Zachary's hair. "Of course, little man. We'll play all weekend."
The family shared a collective chuckle, the atmosphere in the room feeling lighter. Marcus looked around, realizing how much they had gone through together. Despite all the hardships, they were stronger for it.
Angela cleared her throat, standing up from the table. "Well, I'd say this was a productive conversation. Marcus, just make sure you keep us updated when you're away at school. And don't forget—we're all here rooting for you."
Marcus stood, giving his mom a firm nod. "I won't forget, Mom. I'll be back to visit as often as I can. And I'll stay on top of my training."
Ron stood up as well, placing a hand on Marcus's shoulder. "You've got the drive, Marcus. Just don't forget the discipline. Boxing's more than physical—it's mental. Same goes for your life. You've got to master both."
"I hear you, Dad. I won't let you down."
As Trevor started to take Zachary upstairs, he paused for a moment, turning back toward Marcus. "You know, Marcus, watching you push yourself has been inspiring. Seeing you fight... it's given me hope that things can get better. You're gonna do great things, little bro."
Marcus felt a swell of emotion, but he kept his voice steady. "We all are, Trevor. We're in this together."
Trevor smiled, then continued up the stairs with Zachary in tow. The house quieted as the night drew closer, and Marcus felt the peace that had eluded him for so long settling in. Tomorrow would bring its own challenges, but for now, they had each other.
As the night wore on and everyone began to settle, Marcus sat alone in the living room, reflecting on the conversation. The road ahead was uncertain, but he felt more grounded than ever. His family had weathered the storm, and now, with a renewed sense of purpose, he was ready for whatever came next.
With the start of his sophomore year and his boxing career ahead of him, Marcus felt a fire burning inside. He had a family to fight for—and a future to build.