The following days were filled with a kind of comfort and stillness that Alex hadn't realized he missed. His parents, always proud and supportive, made him feel as though no time had passed at all, even if the world outside had changed dramatically. Sarah and David relished having him home, often trying to fuss over him with meals and plans, though he continually reminded them he wasn't a teenager anymore. Yet, in the warmth of his family's home, it was easy to let go and just enjoy being their son again.
One afternoon, over tea in the garden, David turned to Alex, a curious look in his eye. "Son, I know you're careful with your privacy, but I have to ask—how did you manage to do so well? You were always smart, but it seems you've become… quite wealthy."
Alex chuckled, prepared for this. He leaned back in his chair, smiling as he explained. "It was mostly timing, Dad. I started off with a bit of luck in crypto trading when it was just becoming big. After I made some decent returns, I started looking for places to invest. That's when a friend of mine told me about this small company called PowerGen. They were just getting started, trying to get their name out there. So, I bought some shares."
David's eyes widened slightly as he nodded, clearly impressed. "PowerGen, huh? I suppose that explains how you can afford that sleek car of yours!"
Sarah laughed softly, shaking her head in wonder. "You've come so far, Alex. We always knew you'd make a name for yourself, but PowerGen… that's incredible!"
Alex smiled, savoring the moment. "Well, since you both have such high praise for it, let me show you something." He excused himself briefly and returned carrying a sleek black box, which he opened to reveal two suits—smooth and matte, with a slight metallic sheen. "I got these for you guys. They're PowerGen's latest nano suits."
David's eyes widened as he inspected the suit. "You don't mean to tell me these are…?"
"Yes," Alex nodded, grinning. "They're reinforced with some of the latest tech. Lightweight, but incredibly resilient. I forgot to give them to you the other night in all the excitement, but here you go."
His parents looked at the suits with awe, visibly touched. "Alex," Sarah murmured, "you've already done so much for us… buying this home, and now these. You're too generous."
"Well, you both deserve it. It's a small thank-you for everything you've done for me," he replied, his tone warm.
Later that day, after catching up with his parents in the garden, Alex decided to call Amelia. She picked up almost immediately, her face lighting up as she saw him.
"Alex!" she exclaimed. "It's so good to see you!"
"Hey, Amelia," he greeted warmly. "I'm finally in town! I'm staying with Mom and Dad for a bit."
She laughed. "I was beginning to think you'd forgotten about us with all your jet-setting around the world."
He chuckled, shaking his head. "Never. It's just been… a lot to manage, you know?"
Amelia nodded, understanding. "Well, I'm glad you're here. It feels like forever since we last caught up. I've been keeping busy at work, but I missed you, big brother."
Alex softened, realizing how much he'd missed her too. "I missed you too, Amelia. Hey, when you're free from work, I'd love to meet up. Maybe you could bring Aris along? Mom and Dad mentioned you'd met someone special."
At the mention of Aris, she blushed slightly, smiling. "Yes, I'd love for you to meet him. He's a bit swamped with some government assignments, but as soon as he's free, I'll set something up."
"Perfect," Alex said, smiling. "In the meantime, I have something for you. I won't say what it is yet, but I think you'll like it."
Amelia's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "A mystery gift? You know I can't resist those! Now I'm even more excited."
They spent a while chatting, their conversation light and playful. They talked about old memories, shared a few jokes, and Alex teased her gently about work and life. The years seemed to melt away, and for that brief time, he could almost forget the weight of his responsibilities and abilities. This was what family was about—ease, laughter, and the feeling that, no matter how the world changed, they'd always have each other.
As he ended the call, Alex sat back, feeling a renewed sense of grounding. Family was still family, no matter how much he had changed.