How to be loved

9 - I need you!

HOW TO BE LOVED

9 – I need you!

"It's getting pretty late. Let me give you a ride; that's the least I can do to say thank you," Becky offered.

Realization dawned on Freen, and she immediately stood up in panic. "Shit! Shit! Shit! I have to go!" she exclaimed, rummaging through her bag.

"Hey, hey, calm down. Are you okay? What's happening? Let me help," Becky responded, alarmed by Freen's sudden urgency.

Freen sighed, holding her phone. "My phone is dead. I forgot to inform my friends that I stepped out of the bar." She looked at her watch. "It's been an hour. Surely they'll be worried, especially Nam."

"Okay, let's not panic. We'll figure this out," Becky said, trying to keep her voice steady. She placed a reassuring hand on Freen's shoulder. "Come on, the bar is just across the beach. We can walk back, and you can explain everything to them."

Freen nodded, her initial panic subsiding slightly. "Thank you, Becky. I really appreciate it."

"Hey, no need to thank me. You stepped out of the bar to accompany me in my misery. It's my fault, so let me fix it," Becky responded.

Together, they hurried across the sandy beach, the cool night air brisk against their skin. As they approached the bar, Freen spotted a small group of people standing outside, clearly looking around with concern. She recognized Nam immediately, pacing anxiously.

"There they are," Freen said, pointing.

As soon as Freen stepped onto the pavement, Nam rushed over, her face a mix of relief and irritation. "Freen! Where have you been?!" Nam exclaimed, her voice trembling slightly.

"I'm so sorry, Nam," Freen apologized, her tone earnest. "My phone died, and I stepped out for a bit with Becky. I lost track of time. I'm really sorry."

"Oh my bunny!" Nam hugged Freen tightly, and Freen responded with the same intensity. "I was so worried."

"I'm here now," Freen said, parting from the hug and tucking a few strands of Nam's hair behind her ear.

Nam glanced at Becky, who gave a small, apologetic smile. "Thank you for bringing her back," Nam said, her voice softening.

"Of course," Becky replied. "I didn't mean to cause any trouble. We were just talking, and we didn't realize how late it had gotten."

Nam nodded, the tension in her shoulders easing. "It's alright. I'm just glad she's safe. I'm Nam, and these are Mind and Faye," she said, gesturing to their other friends.

"Girls, this is Rebecca Armstrong, my manag—"

"Freen's friend," Becky cut in, which made Freen smile.

Nam's expression softened further. "Nice to meet you, Rebecca. Thank you for looking after Freen."

"Call me Becky," she replied with a warm smile. "And it was my pleasure. Freen's a great person."

Mind and Faye echoed Nam's sentiments, expressing their gratitude and relief. As the group started to relax, the lively sounds of the bar enveloped them, creating a comforting backdrop.

"Why don't you join us for a bit?" Nam suggested, her tone inviting.

Becky hesitated, then shook her head gently. "I appreciate the offer, but I should get home. It's been a long night."

"Are you sure?" Freen asked, a hint of disappointment in her voice.

Becky nodded. "Yeah, I'm sure. But thank you."