𝒲𝒾𝓈𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝑜𝓃 𝓎𝑜𝓊

Chapter 9

Tony pov

This is so unreal. This can't be happening now. I'm getting my little sister back after so long. The thought feels like a dream, something I've wished for every day for what feels like an eternity. I missed her so much; I wanted to cuddle her and tell her how much I loved her. I miss all our nights out in the garden, lying on a blanket, staring up at the moon. She would gaze at it with wonder, her eyes sparkling with magic. She also loved the stars.

When she was taken, I was broken. I felt like a part of me had been ripped away, leaving a gaping hole that could never be filled. I tried to be strong for everyone else, to help them cope with the loss. But at the end of the night, when I was alone in the bathroom, I would let my guard down and sob. The pain was overwhelming, and I didn't know how to process it.

She was the best cuddler you could ever have, the best teddy bear. She would climb on me whenever she wanted cuddles, and if I didn't pick her up, she would cry on my leg and hold it for dear life. I loved those moments, loved being her safe haven. She looked like a mini Elliot, just a girl version. I wonder what she looks like now. Has she grown tall and beautiful? Does she still love the stars?

I wonder if she'll even recognize me. Will she remember the way I used to make her laugh, the way I used to read her stories? I hope she'll forgive me for not being able to protect her all those years ago. I hope she'll understand that I've been searching for her, waiting for her, every single day.

I can't wait to see you, Stella. I've missed you so much, and I'm so grateful that you're coming home. I'll be here, waiting with open arms, ready to welcome you back into my life.

Carter pov

Harper is finally coming home. The thought fills me with both excitement and anxiety. What if she hates me? What if she blames me for not finding her sooner? We've tried for so long, but what if it's not enough? What if she thinks we gave up on her? The thought of facing her judgment is daunting.

I'm also worried about my scars. They're everywhere, a constant reminder of my struggles. I know I'm weak, and I'm afraid of what Harper will think of me. I don't want her pity or judgment; I just want her love. I want her to accept me for who I am, scars and all.

The scars are a part of me, a reminder of the pain and numbness I felt when Harper was gone. Self-harming was the only way I could feel something, anything, during that dark time. But now, I'm afraid Harper will see them and think less of me.

I hope she had a good childhood, despite being away from us. But something in my gut tells me she didn't. I hope she's okay, that she's strong and resilient. I want to be there for her, to support her and love her unconditionally.

When Greyson told me Harper was coming home, I was shocked. I didn't know what to believe. Was he pranking me? He loves pranks, but this seemed different. The tone of his voice was serious, and I could sense the emotion behind his words.

In the background of the call, I heard snores. They sounded so cute, but I couldn't tell if it was Blake or maybe even Harper. The thought of Harper sleeping peacefully, safe and sound, filled me with hope. Maybe, just maybe, she's been okay all this time.

Xander pov

I don't understand why everyone is so happy she's coming home. Do they really think she's just going to fit right back into our lives like nothing's changed? I don't think so. In fact, I'm convinced she's had the most fantastic life while she was gone. She's probably forgotten all about us, about me.

Harper and I used to be close, but that was a long time ago. Now, I don't know if I can ever forgive her for leaving me. I know my brother said she was taken, but to me, she left. She abandoned me, and that's something I'll never forget.