Hold On I Still Need You

-A Sky Full of Stars-

Sophie's POV: 

Waking up to the soft golden light filtering through the curtains, I felt the weight of exhaustion clinging to my bones. It seemed like no amount of sleep could fully rejuvenate me after the endless challenges my life is right now, and the many things I face at Foxfire. With a deep breath, I pushed myself out of my bed, determined to face the day ahead. I went about my morning routine mechanically, my mind drifting to the tasks awaiting me at school. 

Grabbing my bucket list, a tangible reminder of my goals and dreams and the painful reminder of the bad news I received yesterday, I tucked it safely into my bag. It held a mix of exciting adventures and daunting challenges, a roadmap for my ambitions and aspirations. The journey to Foxfire was a familiar one, filled with the hustle and bustle of students rushing to class. 

As I entered the grand library, I was greeted by the sight of my friends – Biana, Marella, and Linh – already engrossed in a spirited conversation. Their smiles and laughter brought a warmth to my tired soul, rekindling a spark of excitement within me. "Hey, Sophie! You look like you could use some Stardust Dew this morning," Marella teased, her eyes twinkling mischievously. I chuckled, grateful for her light-hearted banter. 

"You might be onto something there, Marella. A little taste of Stardust Dew could work wonders." Biana, always the voice of reason in our group, chimed in, "Well, before we dive into the realm of beverages, shall we discuss our plans for the day? I believe there's a new lesson in science that we shouldn't miss." Linh, the quietest among us but with a keen intellect, nodded in agreement. 

"I heard Professor Noland has prepared a fascinating demonstration for us today. It would be a shame to miss out." We continued our discussions, each of us sharing our thoughts and concerns about the upcoming lessons. The bell rang, signaling the start of another mundane day of lectures and assignments. I signed, standing up and walking out of the library resigning myself into the monotony of school life as it began. Lesson, after lesson, my thoughts drifted back to my bucket list and what things it promised. 

Finally, the lunch bell rang, bringing a welcome break to the endless cycle of classes. I made my way to the courtyard, scanning the sea of faces until my eyes landed on Keefe's familiar grin. "Hey Foster," Keefe greeted, his voice filled with genuine concern. "How are you holding up after yesterday?" I managed to give him a small smile, touched by his thoughtfulness. "I'm managing, Keefe, as best of my ability. Just trying to take it one day at a time." Keefe nodded, his expression softening with understanding. 

"Just know, I'm standing with you and I'm here for whatever you need." The weight of his words lifted some of the burden in my heart, grateful for his unwavering support. Then, as if sensing the heaviness of their conversation, I felt a smirk form on my lips with a mischievous spark. "You know what, Keefe? I've decided to start working on my bucket list.," I declared, a hint of excitement coloring my voice. 

Keefe's eyes widened in surprise before a grin spread across his face. "Seriously? Count me in, Foster! I can't wait to go on those crazy adventures you have in store" With a shared laugh, we linked arms and headed inside towards the lunch line, their conversation filled with plans and ideas for the adventures that lay ahead.

Dex, Biana, Tam, Linh and Marella. Dex was engrossed in a tech book; Biana was laughing with Linh and Tam their heads close together in an animated conversation. Marella was sitting at a table, sketching in her notebook, lost in her own world. As me and Keefe approached them, the chatter grew louder a symphony of voices blending together in a harmonious cacophony. 

As I approached them, the chatter grew louder, a symphony of voices blending together in a harmonious cacophony. "Hey, Soph!" Biana called out, waving me over. I grinned and hurried towards them, taking a seat next to him at our usual table. "So, what's new?" I asked curiously. "Nothing much, really. But Marella brought her famous strawberry tarts." My mouth watered at the thought of those delicious deserts. 

They were a delicacy that we all looked forward to whenever she decided to bake them. I made a mental note to save room for dessert. We spent the next hour eating, chatting, and laughing, our conversations ranging from the latest Foxfire gossip to our plans for the upcoming weekend. Time seemed to slow down when I was with my friends, the world outside of our little circle fading into the background. As lunch came to an end and the bell signaled the start of our next class, we gathered our things and prepared to part ways.

I lingered for a moment, taking in the sight of my friends around me. "See you guys later," I said, standing up and giving each of them a hug. "Thanks for the best lunch break ever." As I walked away, a sense of contentment settled over me, my heart full of gratitude for the beautiful souls I was fortunate enough to call my friends. 

After a few more hours of lectures the final bell rang signaling the end of the school day. I hurriedly pack my bag and make my way to the school gates, where Keefe is waiting for me. His mischievous grin brightens up my day instantly as he greets me with a playful bump on the shoulder. "Ready for some Mallowmelt at your place, Foster?" he asks, his eyes dancing with anticipation. I nod eagerly, knowing that nothing beats Edaline's homemade Mallowmelt. Its gooey sweetness is like a warm hug for the soul, wrapping me in a sense of home and comfort. 

The walk to my house is filled with laughter and easy conversation, the weight of the day slowly fading away with each step. When we finally arrive, the aroma of freshly made Mallowmelt wafts through the air, making my stomach grumble in anticipation. Edaline greets us with a warm smile, her eyes crinkling at the corners as she sees Keefe and me. 

She sets a plate of Mallowmelt on the table, the beautiful treat glistening under the soft glow of the kitchen lights. We devour the treats with gusto, savoring each bite as if it were the last thing we'd ever taste. Keefe's eyes widen in appreciation, and I can't help but chuckle at his exaggerated expressions of delight. Once our hunger is satiated, we retreat to the backyard, where the night sky is ablaze with twinkling stars. It's a sight to behold, a vast canvas of darkness scattered with pinpricks of light.

I take a deep breath, letting the cool night air fill my lungs as I sink into the plush cushions of the outdoor lounge. "Bucket list item number one," I whisper, my voice barely above a breath. Keefe's gaze lingers on me, his eyes searching mine for a moment before he nods in understanding. Together, we lie back, our bodies side by side but not quite touching. The silence is companionable, the only sound the soft chirping of crickets in the distance. I feel a sense of peace wash over me, a rare moment of quiet amidst the storm of my illness. 

"Look," Keefe says suddenly, his voice low and reverent. I follow his gaze to a shooting star streaking across the sky, leaving a trail of stardust in its wake. It's a fleeting moment, but in that instant, everything feels right in the world. Keefe turns to me, his eyes gentle and full of unspoken words. "You know, Foster, you're the bravest person I've ever met," he says, his voice soft but unwavering. His words pierce through the layers of fear and doubt that have plagued me for so long. 

I feel tears prickle at the corners of my eyes, but I blink them away, refusing to let them fall. "Thank you, Keefe," I whisper, my voice barely a murmur. "I don't know what I'd do without you." He smiles, a genuine, heartwarming smile that lights up his face. "You don't have to do it alone, Sophie. I'm right here with you." And in that moment, as we lie beneath the vast expanse of the night sky, With Keefe by my side, I know that no matter what lies ahead, I have a friend who will always be there to catch me when I fall. 

The night wears on, we continue to stargaze, sharing stories and dreams beneath the watchful gaze of the stars. And for the first time in a long while, I allow myself to believe that maybe, just maybe, everything will be okay in the end. 

"Foster, You're more beautiful than any star in the sky. Your light shines brighter than a thousand suns. You are like those stars, Foster. Bright and beautiful, each one unique." Keefe says softly my heart swelling with warmth. 

Bucket list item number one is now complete. 

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"Hold on, I still need you."

Keep Being Cool

-KotLC183