Klaus' journey back to the Long Island suburbs was filled with picturesque and tranquil scenery. He watched through the train window as it passed green and wooded golf courses and other landscapes punctuated by charming homes and small towns.
The train followed its course along the tracks, crossing bridges over quiet rivers and dark tunnels, creating an intriguing atmosphere. Klaus took the time to lose himself in his thoughts, recalling the emotions of the day and the expectations for the future. As the train approached the Long Island station, Klaus began to recognize his surroundings. The quiet, tree-lined streets gave him a sense of peace and tranquility, a welcome break from the fast pace of his life.
As Klaus stepped off the train, he took a deep breath and began to walk along the clean, manicured sidewalks. He passed elegant homes with inviting balconies and flower gardens, admiring the charming architecture of the suburbs. The sun was strong, casting an intense light on the landscape, but creating a serene and inviting atmosphere with the sound of cicadas. Klaus took a deep breath, appreciating the serene beauty that surrounded him.
As he walked toward his home, Klaus passed small parks in the neighborhood where children played and families enjoyed leisure time. He smiled as he observed the happiness on people's faces.
Finally, after a pleasant walk, Klaus arrived at his house. He paused for a moment at the front door, taking in the familiar facade and the manicured garden. The feeling of coming home was comforting, bringing back childhood memories and coziness. Klaus opened the door and was greeted by the familiar smell of home, a mixture of memories and a sense of belonging. He dropped his backpack in the hallway and made his way to the living room, where he found his parents anxiously waiting for him.
His mother looked at him wide-eyed because Klaus hadn't told her when he was coming, so it was a surprise to see him. She quickly approached him in shocked silence and hugged him tightly.
After a few seconds, Klaus' father came out of the kitchen next to the living room.
"Who's here, dear?" He dried his hands with a cloth, but immediately stopped where he was. "You're back," Michael Park said.
"Yes." Klaus replied with a simple smile.
Michael returned the smile, and when Chun Park pulled away a little, Michael gave his son an even stronger hug that earned him a strong pat on the back.
Then they sat down on the sofas and Chun inquired:
"Klaus, my son, how were the exams? How are your roommates? How is your girlfriend?"
"Relax honey, he just got here. I bet he's tired." Michael said.
"You're right. So I'll go get some cookies while dinner's not ready, okay, Klaus?"
"I'll do that, Mom."
Chun got up and went to the kitchen. Meanwhile, Michael leaned over to his son and inquired with a teasing smile:
"Girlfriend, huh? And is she pretty?"
"One of the most beautiful women in the world, second only to Mom, of course."
Michael crossed his arms and nodded with a proud look on his face.
"She's amazing, Dad. Ashley is smart, funny, and has a big heart. We've only been together a short time, but she's really nice."
"I'm glad to hear that, Klaus. It sounds like you've found someone special. I hope I get the chance to meet her soon."
Klaus nodded with a smile, knowing that his father and Ashley would have a great connection. "I'm sure you two will get along very well when that happens."
Just then, Chun returned from the kitchen with a tray of homemade cookies. "Here are the fresh cookies, Klaus. Enjoy!"
Klaus thanked her and took a cookie, savoring the familiar, comforting taste. Nestled on the couch, he was grateful to be home, surrounded by the love of his family.
"Thank you, Mom. These cookies are the best."
Chun smiled and sat down next to Michael while Klaus enjoyed this moment of peace and happiness in his home. While Klaus was talking to his parents, his younger brother Ard appeared in the living room. He had a mischievous smile on his face.
"Klaus?!" He was startled for a second and exclaimed.
"Eae, little brother! Aren't you coming to give your big brother a hug?"
Ard ran and jumped at Klaus excitedly, hugging him as hard as he could, but his arms weren't even big enough to wrap around his brother's torso.
"You came to visit us to tell us about your adventures in the special program, didn't you?"
"Yes, I'm back for a week. I have lots of stories to tell!"
"I can't wait to hear them all. I need some excitement around here, too."
The two brothers laughed and hugged each other. Even though they were different ages, they always found a way to have fun together.
"Klaus, your room is still just the way you left it. You can settle in and get some rest."
"Thanks, Mom. I really need to rest, and I also have some in-game business to take care of, if you don't mind. By the way, it would be nice if we went out for dinner tonight, wouldn't it?"
"Sure, Klaus! Let's make it a special evening. Do you have any places in mind you'd like to go?"
Klaus thought for a moment and remembered a restaurant he liked to go to when he lived on Long Island. "How about we go to that Italian restaurant we used to love? I remember how delicious the food was there."
"Great idea! I missed those wonderful pastas. I'm sure you have too, Klaus." Michael said.
Klaus nodded enthusiastically. He was looking forward to spending some quality time with his family, sharing stories and creating new memories.
"I'm really happy to be back home with you. I'm sure we're going to have a wonderful evening."
As they talked and planned dinner, the house was filled with joy and excitement. Klaus felt grateful to have such a loving family and a place to call home. As Chun said, his room was still intact, so he took the NeuroGear out of his backpack and lay down on his bed. He still had a few things to take care of in the Kingdom of Vrikhodour before he was completely free for this week of rest.