#Chapter 497: Weakness & Wallflowers

Nina For a few moments, the frenetic whirling and buzzing that I had grown so used to over the past year filled all of my senses. But, after the briefest of moments, it was over—and I was met instead with the sound of birds chirping, fountains running, and the soft summer breeze blowing across my father’s backyard. My friends and I all stood there, our senses coming back to us. When I was oriented again, I looked up to see that my father was already standing there. He had his hands on his hips and wore a plain white t-shirt and a pair of slim-fit joggers. “You’re a little late,” he said, checking his watch. “But I’ll cut you all some slack on your first day.” I smiled and stepped out from partially behind Enzo. “Dad,” I said, opening my arms and taking a few steps forward to hug him. “It’s good to see you.” My father furrowed his brow in confusion. “Nina?” he asked. “I didn’t know you were coming.” I nodded and pulled away. “Of course I came.” For a few