Havenfell

Chapter 1: A Fresh Start

Felicity sat at the kitchen table, the morning light streaming through the window, casting a warm glow on the familiar surroundings. Their dad was across from them, reading the newspaper, his brow furrowed in concentration. The air was filled with the comforting aroma of fresh coffee and toast.

"Dad," Felicity began, their voice steady but soft. "I've been thinking... about moving to Havenfell with the rest of the group."

Their dad looked up, his expression a mix of surprise and concern. "Havenfell? That's quite a change. Are you sure you're ready for that?"

Felicity nodded, trying to keep their emotions in check. "I need a fresh start. We all do. After everything... it feels like the right move."

He sighed, setting the newspaper aside. "It's just... it's a big step. You've been through a lot this past year."

"I know," Felicity replied, their fingers fidgeting with the edge of the tablecloth. "But I think this will be good for me. For all of us. We've talked about it, and everyone agrees it's what we need."

He studied them for a moment, his eyes searching their face for any signs of doubt. "I worry about you, you know that. You've always needed... a bit more structure."

Felicity felt a pang of frustration but understood his concern. "Dad, I'm not running away. I'm moving forward. Callum, Juno, everyone—they're like family. They'll be there with me."

Their dad rubbed his temples, a gesture Felicity knew all too well. "I know your friends mean a lot to you. But what about your routines? Your support here?"

"I'll have support there too," Felicity assured him, their voice growing more confident. "We've already looked into it. And... I'll keep in touch. It's not like I'm disappearing."

He sat back, considering their words. The silence stretched between them, filled with unspoken worries and hopes. Just then, Felicity's phone buzzed on the table, interrupting the moment. They glanced at it, seeing the group chat notification.

Juno: Where are you, Felicity? We're waiting for you!

Felicity smiled slightly, their friends' messages a reminder of the support waiting for them. They looked back at their dad. "It's them. They're wondering where I am."

He nodded slowly, a small, resigned smile touching his lips. "All right. If this is what you really want, then I won't stand in your way. Just promise me you'll be careful and keep in touch."

"I promise," Felicity said, relief washing over them. They stood up, moving around the table to give their dad a hug. "Thank you."

He held them for a moment longer than usual, as if trying to imprint the memory. "You've always been strong, Felicity. Just remember that."

"I will," they replied, stepping back and grabbing their phone. They quickly typed a response to the group chat.

Felicity: On my way! See you soon.

As they headed towards the door, their heart felt lighter than it had in a long time. The future was uncertain, but for the first time, it didn't seem so daunting. With their friends by their side and a fresh start ahead, Felicity felt ready to face whatever came next.