Hugo and Kiara decadently setup the dining room table. The salmon was near cooked and the vegetables were steamed. The scalloped potatoes’ seasonings flourished with the crisping cheese. Sémillon appeared at the gate sending the two into a mild panic. They poured ice water into each glass, then filled each wine glass with a vintage 1998 Spanish Merlot. The doorbell rang causing Hugo and Kiara to jump nervously. Instantly they opened the door welcoming Sem with simultaneous enduring hugs.

“Hi, Mom, hi, Dad.”

“Hi, Semi-sweet!” Kiara said enthusiastically.

“Hey, Sem!” Hugo stated not quite matched in enthusiasm split by subtle uneasiness.

“What’s for dinner?”

“Well, Mom cooked mostly everything, as usual. But! We have salmon I’ll pop out of the oven soon, for the sides there’s scalloped potatoes and steamed vegetables. Everything seasoned exactly like that recipe you shared with us!”

“Thank you, both. May I sit down?”

“Of course, please sit.” Mom said.

Sémillon stared somberly at the head of the table and moved in a sluggish strut to his seat at the center. Noticing this they thought tonight wouldn’t be any different than the previous few. Not skipping a beat Hugo removed the fish from the oven and cut it into pieces softly. Sem picked up his wine glasses, swayed it in his hand to let it breathe, and emptily peered into the color. Everyone began eating in silence, Sem’s head  hung noticeably downward . He was cognizant of his involuntary gestures, trying not to bring down the mood.

They put so much effort into these dinners…

Sem thought to himself.

The least I can do is try harder…

Despite the willpower he managed to sunmon, the positive topics he kept churning out; he was at wit’s end. The waterworks began to flow and dinner was over. Hugo and Kiara stood up to lift Sem from his seat. The three walked to the living room and sat down on the sofa. Everyone cried together, mom and dad at Sem’s side wrapping their arms around him. No other method of comfort could stop him from crying. Several hours later Sem decided to leave in silence.

“Are you all right?” Dad inquired hesitantly.

“You know you can stay here, Semi-sweet.” Mom stated gently.

“Thanks mom, thanks dad. I’m better now, I’m so-“ Sem was interrupted with a finger placed on his lips.

“Shhhh. Never apologize for that. We’re all going to make it, we will be okay.” Mom smiled.

Sem entered his vehicle and drove off late into the evening.