As usual, I'm deep in my thoughts, riding the school bus home. No football practice today. All my friends have already gotten off, my house being one of the last ones on the route.

I think about my homework, the upcoming test next week, the big match with our rival school. About friends, teammates, about girls in my class. Is it just me or is everyone getting prettier, more attractive...

My mind comes back to reality as the bus slows down, letting me off in front of our house. I shoulder my bag and stroll to the front door, smiling at all the memories.

Passing familiar trees, I walk towards the door. I've had a pretty good childhood. Maybe not perfect, but I guess nothing ever is. I start reflecting on my past behavior, how I've been a bit rude, pushing my family away. Friends, school, and sports all seem like the most important things in life. Something to work towards and care about. Family is always there for you, so why try? Why not take them for granted?

I laugh to myself, feeling guilty about how I've been acting. One of my good friends had just lost his mom and is now a wreck. He pretends to be fine, but I know him better. He's changed. Not as happy and carefree as he once was. And that puts things all into perspective.

I walk into the front door, through the loving room and into the kitchen. Setting down my bag I grab a bottle of water and start my way upstairs, headed to my room.

"Oh, hey mom. Home already?"

I smile, searching inward. I've never been good at sharing my emotions. And especially never good at apologizing. After today, talking with my friend, I kinda feel like it needed to.

"Listen, um.... I'm sorry that I've been so upset all the time. So snappy at you. Like.... I don't know, I've just been in a bad mood for a while. And I feel kinda bad about it. You've been nice to me, and I haven't really been nice back. So... yea, I'm sorry about all that.

I shuffle my feet, looking at the floor, the wall, anywhere that wasn't your face. It's not easy for me to be emotional, to be vulnerable

[M4F] Mom and Son - loving, wholesome, realistic and emotional