The Scandal

                                    

                                          
Dunk stepped into his childhood home, enveloped by the warm familiarity of the cozy living room. His parents, beaming with smiles, welcomed him with open arms.
"Hey, sweetie! We've missed you," his mom exclaimed, hugging him tightly.
Dunk's tension melted away as he hugged her back. "I've missed you guys too."
His dad patted him on the back. "We're glad you're taking a break. You've been working too hard. When First told us that you're headed here, we were over the moon!"
"Oh sweetie, I'm so happy to see you after so many days, or has it been months?" His mother teared up. 
Dunk melted and hugged them both, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. He needed this break for so long, from the strange turn of events that had surfaced in his life.
Just then, the doorbell rang. "That must be James and Lili!" his mom exclaimed.
Dunk's face lit up with a smile. His childhood friends! He hadn't seen them in ages. James and Lili burst into the living room, laughing and chattering. The three friends hugged, exchanging stories and jokes.
As they caught up, Dunk's parents prepared dinner - his favorite childhood dishes. The aroma of stir-fried vegetables and roasted chicken wafted through the house, making his stomach growl.
Over dinner, they shared laughter and memories. James regaled them with tales of his travels, while Lili talked about her new job. Dunk listened, feeling grateful for these simple, joyful moments.
As the evening wore on, they moved to the backyard. James pulled out his guitar, strumming old favorite tunes. Dunk and Lili sang along, their voices blending in harmony.
Under the starry sky, surrounded by loved ones, Dunk felt his heart heal. For the first time in weeks, he forgot about Joong. 
This was what he needed - a reminder of the beauty in simplicity, the love of family and friends.
As the night drew to a close, Dunk hugged his friends and parents tightly. "Thank you for this," he whispered, his voice choked with emotion.
His mom smiled. "Anytime, sweetie. You're always welcome home."
Dunk knew he'd return to his life soon, but for now, he savored this peaceful interlude, surrounded by those who loved him unconditionally.
At night, Dunk's phone buzzed on the coffee table, breaking the serene atmosphere. Dunk hesitated, unsure if he should answer.
"Leave it, dear," his mom said gently. "You're taking a break, remember?"
Dunk nodded, letting out a sigh of relief. He silenced the phone and put it on silent mode.
James, ever the jokester, teased, "Must be his girlfriend calling to check in."
Dunk's cheeks flushed, but he laughed it off. "I don't have a girlfriend, stop saying that in front of my parents."
"Hey sweetie, we don't mind you having a partner." His mom chirped. 
"No mom, I'm serious. I don't have a...girlfriend. " Dunk said sheepishly. 
The phone buzzed again and Dunk just tossed it away. 
Lili smiled sympathetically. "You deserve it, Dunk. Enjoy your downtime." The evening continued, phone-free and filled with laughter, love, and warmth.
The next morning, Dunk's phone buzzed nonstop as notifications flooded his screen. He groaned, rubbing his temples. He squinted at the bright screen half-asleep but as his eyes fell on the notifications, they flew wide open in shock.