Invisible String

Chapter 29 -It's good to see me isn't it?

I glance toward the kitchen where Logan is still focused on cooking, oblivious to the conversation now. "That actually sounds exactly like him."

It's a fleeting comment, but it catches my attention. This is one of those rare moments where someone mentions Logan's family. Curiosity tugs at me, and before I can stop myself, I decide to take the chance and ask. Was I betraying Logan by doing this? I don't think so—I wasn't planning on prying into his deepest secrets, just learning a little more about him. Small things.

"What were they like?" I ask carefully, keeping my tone casual. "His parents, I mean."

John hesitates for a second, his playful demeanor faltering. He runs a hand through his hair before answering. "Strict," he says simply. "They had high expectations for Logan, always pushing him to be perfect. It's part of why he's... well, the way he is. Responsible. Calculated."

"Right," I murmur, processing his words.

John leans back slightly, his tone softening. "You might not notice it now, but Logan's a pretty reserved guy. He doesn't open up easily, and to some people, that can come across as... I don't know, maybe a little rude."

I can't help but chuckle at that. "Much like the first time I met him."

"Still...  once you get past that wall, he's one of the most loyal and thoughtful people you'll ever meet."

"He really is..."

"Yes..."

"Do you get along with his parents now?"

John shifts slightly, his easy demeanor faltering again. He glances toward the kitchen, as if making sure Logan isn't within earshot. "It's... complicated," he admits. "I mean, we're civil. Family dinners aren't exactly hostile, but let's just say I don't call them up for a casual chat."

I frown slightly, picking up on the unspoken tension in his words. "Because of how they treated Logan?"

"Partly," John says with a shrug, leaning back against the couch. "They had this... idea of who Logan should be, and they weren't shy about reminding him when he didn't measure up. It was hard to watch. But it's also just how they are—cold, rigid. Not exactly warm and fuzzy, you know?"

I nod, processing his words. It's not like Logan has ever opened up about his family to me, but hearing this from John fills in some blanks.

"And you?" I ask cautiously. "Did they treat you the same way?"

John's laugh is humorless. "Not really. I was the 'fun cousin,' the one who didn't need to take life so seriously. They didn't expect much from me, which worked out just fine. I stayed out of their way, and they stayed out of mine."

I'm quiet for a moment, unsure of what to say. It's a lot to take in—this glimpse into a part of Logan's life he hasn't shared. Finally, I settle on, "I'm glad Logan had you, though. It sounds like he needed someone in his corner."

John's expression softens, and he nods. "Yeah. And for what it's worth, I think he's lucky to have you now." He grins, the playful spark returning to his eyes. "Though I'm still reserving judgment until I hear you sing."

I laugh, rolling my eyes. "Don't get your hopes up too high. You might regret giving me this much pressure."

"Never," John quips, settling back into the couch as Logan finally emerges from the kitchen with plates in hand.

We spent a pleasant afternoon with John, and the more we talked, the more I realized just how fascinating he was. For instance, I learned he's twenty-seven years old and single, though it seems his heart might not stay that way for long—he's apparently quite smitten with a barista he met on his morning coffee runs.