Chapter 5: Family

The next morning, Marcus woke up to the smell of pancakes and bacon wafting through the house. He rubbed his eyes, trying to shake off the lingering fatigue from another late-night study session. The memory of the "Voyage" app's unsettling message still hung in the back of his mind, but he pushed it aside as he headed downstairs to join his family for breakfast.

His mother was at the stove, flipping pancakes with practiced ease. His father was seated at the table, sipping coffee and reading the newspaper, while his little sister, Emily, was already digging into a stack of pancakes.

"Morning, Marcus!" Emily greeted him cheerfully, her mouth full of syrupy goodness.

"Morning, kiddo," Marcus replied, ruffling her hair as he took a seat. "Smells great, Mom."

"Thanks, honey," his mother said, turning to give him a warm smile. "You look like you could use a good meal. Did you stay up all night again?"

Marcus shrugged, trying to downplay his exhaustion. "Yeah, just trying to keep up with everything."

His father lowered the newspaper and looked at him over the rim of his glasses. "Speaking of keeping up, have you given any more thought to which college you want to go to? The application deadlines are coming up fast."

Marcus picked up a fork and started to eat, buying himself a moment to think. The truth was, he had been so absorbed in the "Voyage" app and his newfound interest in technology that he hadn't really considered his options.

"I've been thinking about it," he said carefully. "Maybe something in computer science or engineering."

His parents exchanged a surprised look. "Really?" his mother asked, her eyes lighting up with interest. "You've never shown much interest in that before. What changed?"

Find this and other great novels on the author's preferred platform. Support original creators!

Marcus hesitated, choosing his words carefully. "I've just been exploring some new things lately. Found out I kind of enjoy it."

Emily looked up from her plate, her curiosity piqued. "Are you going to be a computer genius, Marcus?"

He chuckled. "I don't know about that, Em. Just trying to figure out what I like."

His father nodded thoughtfully. "Computer science is a good field. Lots of opportunities. But it's also pretty demanding. Are you sure that's what you want?"

Marcus thought about the countless hours he had spent studying, the frustration, the breakthroughs, and the unsettling mystery of the app. Despite everything, he felt a pull toward the world of technology that he couldn't ignore.

"Yeah, I think it is," he said, more confidently this time. "I'm still figuring it out, but it feels right."

His mother reached over and squeezed his hand. "We're proud of you, Marcus. Whatever you decide, we'll support you."

"Thanks, Mom," he said, feeling a warmth spread through him. "That means a lot."

Emily glanced at the clock and hurriedly finished her breakfast. "I gotta go, or I'll be late for school!" She grabbed her backpack and rushed to the door. "Bye, everyone!"

"Have a good day, sweetheart," their mother called after her.

As the door closed behind Emily, the room fell into a comfortable silence. Marcus took another bite of his pancakes, feeling a sense of clarity and determination. He still had a long way to go, but for the first time, he felt like he was on the right path.

His father folded the newspaper and set it aside. "So, which colleges are you considering for computer science? Have you looked into any programs?"

Marcus nodded. "A few. There's a good program at the state university, and I've been looking at some other schools with strong engineering departments. I still need to do more research."

His mother beamed at him. "It's so great to see you passionate about something. Just make sure you don't overwork yourself. Balance is important."

"I know, Mom. I'll take care of myself."

They continued to talk about his plans, discussing different colleges and their programs. His parents offered advice and shared their own experiences, and Marcus felt grateful for their support.

After breakfast, Marcus helped clear the table and headed back to his room. He felt more focused and motivated than ever, ready to unwind with some games before diving back into his studies. He picked up the tablet and made himself comfortable on the bed

But as he powered up the tablet, his gaze fell on the "Voyage" app. An inexplicable chill ran down his spine. The app's icon seemed to almost glow ominously, drawing his attention in a way that made his skin prickle. He scanned his room, half-expecting to find someone—or something—watching him. The sensation was so strong that he felt compelled to check every corner, every shadow.

Finding nothing, he shook his head, trying to dispel the feeling of paranoia. "Get a grip, Marcus," he muttered to himself. "It's just an app."

Determined to ignore the unsettling presence, he navigated away from the app and opened up his favorite game instead. The familiar graphics and sounds were a welcome distraction, pulling him into a world where he had control, where things made sense.

As he played, the tension slowly ebbed away, replaced by the adrenaline of the game. He lost himself in the action, the strategy, the thrill of each level. For a while, the strange app and its eerie implications were forgotten.

But deep down, Marcus knew he couldn't avoid it forever. The "Voyage" app was more than just a curiosity—it was a mystery that demanded to be solved. And sooner or later, he would have to confront it head-on.