Chapter 41: Family bonding

August 6, 2021 – Los Angeles, USA

The car glided smoothly along the highway as Ethan sat with his family, savoring the moment. Bill and Rebecca were following behind in another car, leaving Ethan alone to catch up with the people who mattered most to him.

His mom, Emily, looked radiant in an elegant cream dress with soft gold accents. His dad, Adam, wore a sharp navy suit that made him look as dapper as any executive. But it was Precious, his little sister—or not so little anymore—that caught Ethan's attention most of all.

"Whoa, you guys came dressed like you're going to a movie premiere," Ethan teased with a wide grin, taking in their polished looks.

Emily laughed, swatting his arm playfully. "We can't show up looking like tourists at your big event, now can we?"

"Mom's been stressing about her dress for a week," Adam chimed in, shaking his head in mock exasperation.

Ethan chuckled. "It paid off, though. You look great, Mom. And Dad, that suit? Not bad!"

He turned his attention to Precious, who sat beside him, beaming proudly. She wore a sleek, deep green midi dress with matching heels. Her hair was styled to perfection, her makeup subtle yet elegant. Ethan almost did a double take.

"Precious, is that really you? When did you turn into a grown-up?" he asked, half-joking, though the amazement in his voice was real.

"Shut up, Ethan," Precious said, rolling her eyes but unable to hide her smile. "I've always been this cool—you just never noticed."

Ethan grinned and nodded. "Fair enough. You look amazing, Presh. Seriously."

"Thank you!" Precious replied, sitting up a little straighter, proud of herself.

Emily smiled warmly, clearly touched by the reunion. "She's got big plans too, Ethan. Tell him, Precious."

"Yeah?" Ethan leaned in with genuine curiosity. "What plans?"

Precious lit up, the excitement in her eyes unmistakable. "I just graduated, and I'm applying to Harvard. I submitted my application last week!"

Ethan's brows shot up. "Harvard? Wow. I didn't realize I had a genius for a sister."

"I've been telling you," Precious said smugly, folding her arms, "but you're always too busy being 'Ethan the Superstar' to pay attention."

Ethan smirked. "Touché. But Harvard, huh? That's amazing, Presh. I'm proud of you. You'll get in, no doubt."

Adam chimed in, his voice full of pride. "She's worked really hard for this. Her essay's great, and her grades are off the charts. Plus, she's been practicing for the interview like a pro."

"Yeah, but I'm still nervous," Precious admitted. "It's Harvard. It feels impossible sometimes."

Ethan shook his head firmly. "Hey, don't think like that. You're smart, dedicated, and you've got everything they're looking for. You can do this."

Emily placed a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "He's right, sweetheart. We believe in you."

Precious smiled softly, her confidence boosted by their words. "Thanks, guys."

As the car rolled closer to the event venue, Ethan leaned back, stealing another glance at his family. Seeing them dressed to the nines, smiling and proud, reminded him of how far they'd come. This was what it was all about. No matter the fame, the pressure, or the chaos that came with his career, having them here made it all worth it.

"You know," Ethan said, his voice a little more serious, "I really appreciate you guys being here today. I don't say it enough, but you're everything to me."

Emily smiled softly. "You don't have to say it, Ethan. We know."

Adam nodded in agreement. "We're proud of you, son. No matter what."

Precious grinned. "Even when you're annoying, we're proud."

Ethan laughed. "Good to know."

Just then, the car began to slow, approaching the hotel where the listening party would take place. Outside, a small crowd was already forming—reporters, fans, and photographers all waiting for the big event. Ethan felt his pulse quicken, the mix of excitement and nerves settling in.

"You ready?" Adam asked, noticing his expression.

Ethan exhaled, a confident smile creeping onto his lips. "Yeah. I'm ready."