[8:30 P.M.]

(Steven - humming as he drives the Dondai Supremo on the outskirts of Beach City - is on his way home after such a long time.)

I'm close to the town now, I can't wait to get home. I'm so excited! I haven't seen my friends and family in person for, like, a year.

(Just then, Steven notices that another car is coming in the opposite direction.)

Oh, I know that car! It's Jenny, Buck, and Sour Cream!

(Both cars stop.)

Yo, what's up, guys?

Look whos's back, Steven Universe himself!

What are you doing on the outskirts of Beach City?

Well, ya know, man. Having a little fun.

Yeah. We're also trying to cheer Buck up about what happened to his dad.

Huh? What happened to Mr. Dewey?

He had an accident at the Big Donut about a week ago, he's seriously hospitalized right now.

And why aren't you with him now?

I've been with him all week, and adding my studies. *sighs* That's got me pretty stressed out, so I'm going to use tonight to relax and not let the stress get to me, you know what I mean, don't ya?

I sure do. By the way, I have healing powers. If you want, I can go heal him.

I'd really appreciate it, dude. I'll wait for you tomorrow, okay?

Okay. See ya! *waves goodbye* Have fun, guys!

Steven, wait! Would you like some pizza? We've got plenty.

Sure, thanks.

[A few moments later.]

(Steven arrives in Beach City and drives through town.)

I wonder how my dad and Gems will react to my return. After all, I didn't tell them anything to make it a surprise.

(Steven drives in to the beach house, then gets out of the Dondai, walks up to the house, looks in the window and spots Greg and the Gems playing checkers in the living room.)

What are they playing?

(Greg makes a move, then Garnet discovers a chain and captures all of Steven's pieces in one fell swoop.)

I win.

Aw no, not again!

It's checkers. Maybe I'll join them.

Pretty sure you're using your future vision to predict our every move, aren't you?

I don't know what you're talking about. That statement really offends me. I always used to be the best at the board games we played when Steven was a kid.

*nostalgically* Oh, Steven. Our little boy has grown up so much since then. Now he's out there, living his adult life so far away from us.

Yup, I wonder what he's doing right now.

'kay, I guess this is the most opportune time.*opens the door* Hello, everybody!

(Greg and the Gems gape at the sight of Steven standing in the doorway.)

I'm back!!

Steven!!! *run up to him to hug him*

*tears up* Steven, why didn't you let us know you were coming back to Beach City today!?

*in tears* We would've thrown you a welcome party!

Something bad happened? *he asked with a worried look on his face*

Nothing happened. It's just... I missed you so much, all of you.

*sighs in relief* Oh, thank goodness.

So, how was your trip?

What places did you visit?!

Which one did you like the most?!

Did you make any new friends?!

What was the craziest thing you did? Did you have fun?! Did you bring back any souvenirs?!

Ok, that's too many questions.

Understand us, Steven. You have a lot to tell us. And please don't forget every detail.

Hehe, sure thing.

[One hour & thirty minutes later.]

(Steven, Greg, and the Gems are sitting on the couch.)

That sounds great, buddy.

Yeah, I really had a wonderful time on this trip. I had some good and new experiences, I met many beautiful places and a lot of nice people.

Have you decided where you're going to settle down yet?

Whatever decision you make, you know we'll be there to support you in any way we can, Steven.

I haven't made a decision yet, I still have several states to- *yawns* -visit.

*looks at the time on his watch* Gee, look how late it is already. Boy, time sure flies. We should leave this talk for tomorrow and go to sleep.

You're right. *gets up* Well, I'm off. I gotta find a place to spend tonight.

Hold on, Steven! *gets up* You can stay here tonight, I'll give you back your room. I can stay in the van again, like in the ol' days.

No way! Dad, I gladly gave you my room. You got nothing to worry about me, I can stay in a hotel or even in the Dondai

Steven, I insist. *places his hands on Steven's shoulders* Even if you don't live here anymore, this will always be your room. I have no problem giving it back to you.

You sure?

I'm more than sure, my son.

Okay. Then I'll go to sleep now and unpack tomorrow.

We'll continue talking tomorrow then.

G'night, Schtu-ball.

Sleep tight, buddy!

Thanks! Same to you!

(Steven, with a smile on his face, walks into his room.)