The Chance Effect

Chapter 8.

Atlas' POV

The news of my unforeseen success hits me like a wave, crashing against the walls of my understanding. I try to grasp the enormity of it all—the fame, the music, the life I had lived but could no longer recall. I have to surround myself with those who know me best: my bandmates, my family, and my friends. Their unwavering support will become my anchor, helping me navigate this new reality that feels both foreign and familiar.

The first step was breaking free from the confines of the hospital. Since my arrival, I hadn't been alone, my parents always engrossed in conversation with a doctor, or with me.

"How do you feel?" my father asks me as he cleans his glasses.

"Can I have a moment?" I softly inquire.

"Of course, honey. How are you feeling?" my mother shifts her attention towards me.

"I understand the circumstances aren't normal, but can I please go home?" I ask, sincerity lacing my voice.

"That's one reason I'm here today, Mr. Parker. As of today, you're free to leave and make yourself comfortable at home," the doctor interjects. A wave of relief washes over me, knowing I can finally escape this hospital room after an indeterminate stretch of time. I rise quickly, eager to taste the semblance of freedom, similar to stepping onto a thrilling roller coaster.

"Before you get too excited, remember how you appear in public is ultimately your choice. Do you want the world to remember the 'you' before the accident, or are you comfortable with them knowing you're struggling with some memories?" my dad askes, concern etched in his eyes. I hadn't contemplated that aspect yet; did it even matter in the moment?

"I guess we'll take it as it comes," I answer honestly, aware that I do not look anything close to a current world known rockstar, I wouldn't even know where to start.  After signing the release paperwork, a tall, muscular man greets me.

"So, are you ready to step into your new life?" the man grins, prompting an awkward feeling due to my lack of memory of him. His face shifts as he is reading my thoughts.

"I'm Scott, your main bodyguard. We go way, way back. We have a lot to catch up on," he says, patting my back and guiding me out of the room. As we walk down the cold hallways of the hospital, my parents follow closely behind. I notice nurses exchange shy glances between each other and whisper among themselves as we pass them.

"Word got out that you're in this hospital. Someone here leaked it to the media, and there are fans outside. So, we'll exit from the side," Scott informs, speaking into an earpiece, instructing someone where to pick us up. We proceed down an empty hallway, heading toward two metal double doors, the sounds of verbal chatter coming from the other side.

"These fans seem to get smarter every time," Scott mumbles under his breath, confusion clouding my mind as I glance at my parents, seeking answers in their eyes.

"I'm sorry to thrust you into this, but if we don't go now, it'll only get worse," my bodyguard says, preparing me mentally for what lay behind those doors. I silently nod, not fully ready for what awaits. Suddenly as the doors open, the volume escalates, and girls of all ages start screaming, piercing my ears.

"Keep your head down and stay close to me!" Scott yells over the cacophony, shielding me with his arm. I hunch down, feeling like a duckling under its mother's wing. Girls scream my name, shoving cameras and cell phones at me, clamoring for autographs. I follow Scott's advice, keeping my head low as we navigate through the crowd.