Percy sometimes will comment on continuity errors and noting what the actors must be really be feeling at a given time.

That definitely gets a positive response from Lan and 'Chelle.

Aaren can be heard whistling as he fusses around in the kitchen - loading the dishwasher, putting things away (or getting them out? it isn't entirely clear).

Eventually, he reappears in the living room, flicking the lights out, and balancing a cake with lit candles on the other hand - it's nothing special, just a chocolate sponge, but Aaren's iced the words 'Welcome Home Percy' on the top of it.

Percy basks at Aaren and then at the cake, before hugging him tight.

Aaren hugs him back, tight and warm, cake left on the table for now.

'Chelle and Lan join the hug as well, cuddling around Percy's sides and back.

Delight!

After a moment of cuddling, Percy remembers the candles. He peeks out of the hug and blows. Then back at the hug.

The hug continues for a while, until:

"We should eat the cake before it goes stale."

"It came out the oven half an hour ago, Lan, there's no danger of that happening soon."

"You might be willing to take that chance, but I'm not."

Chuckle. "Okay, okay. Even if it doesn't go stale, lets be appreciative of dad's cooking."

Aaren gives them a final squeeze before pulling BACK, and heading into the kitchen, returning a moment later with plates, and a knife that he offers to Percy.

Percy cuts everyone pieces of cake. Proportionally sized to how much they want some.

"Now that is helpful," 'Chelle says claiming her slice. "None of this having to try and quantify the amount you want."

Snort. "I live to serve. Perfectly sized slices."

"And we appreciate this skill!" Lan says, toasting Percy with his cake slice.

Cake toast! Nom.

Much nom! It is excellent cake!

Most excellent cake.

Aaren watches them all fondly, feeling almost complete contentment.

Contentment is excellent.

"We've got a couple of options for tomorrow," Aaren says once they're done. "I can get you transferred to your new school."

(That's met by a muted, theatrical groan from 'Chelle.)

"Or you can take the day, and I'll introduce you to Ange."

"Somewhat, call it a hunch, I think meeting Ange is going to be the more interesting option."

"Definitely!" Lan agrees. "Aunt Ange is awesome."

"Ange's it is then. I'll let her know." There's a sense that he had already told Ange that this was the plan.