Secrets | 5SOS

[13]

a few days later.

The drive home from the hospital was quiet, but it was a comforting silence filled with unspoken support and love. Ashton drove, his eyes occasionally glancing at me in the rearview mirror, while Calum sat beside me, his hand resting reassuringly on my knee. Luke and Michael were working short shifts and would be back in a few hours.

When we pulled up to the house, I felt a strange mix of relief and anxiety. It was good to be home, but I knew the real work was just beginning. I took a deep breath as Calum helped me out of the car, his arm steadying me.

"Welcome home, Bella," he said softly, his smile warm and encouraging.

I nodded, managing a small smile of my own. "Thanks, Cal. It’s good to be back."

We stepped inside, and I was immediately enveloped by the familiar sights and smells of home. The living room was just as we had left it, cozy and inviting. I sank into the couch, feeling the exhaustion of the past few days catch up with me.

Calum plopped down beside me, stretching his legs out and leaning back. "So, what do you want to do today, Bella? We’ve got the whole day to ourselves."

I thought for a moment, grateful for his attempt to make things feel normal. "How about we watch some movies? Something light and funny."

Calum grinned. "Perfect. I’ll make some popcorn. You pick the movie."

As he headed to the kitchen, I browsed through our collection of DVDs, finally settling on a couple of classic comedies. When Calum returned with a big bowl of popcorn and a couple of sodas, I had the first movie ready to go.

We settled in, the opening credits rolling as we munched on popcorn. It felt good to relax, to laugh at the silly jokes and forget about everything else for a while. Calum had a way of making even the darkest days seem brighter, and today was no exception.

Halfway through the second movie, we paused for a break. Calum looked at me, his expression serious for a moment. "How are you holding up, Bella? Really?"

I sighed, appreciating his concern. "It’s hard, Cal. I’m trying to take it one day at a time, like everyone keeps saying. But sometimes, it just feels so overwhelming."

Calum nodded, his eyes filled with empathy. "I get it. And it’s okay to feel that way. We’re all here for you, no matter what. You don’t have to do this alone."

I smiled at him, feeling a rush of gratitude. "Thanks, Cal. I don’t know what I’d do without you guys."

He grinned, giving my shoulder a playful nudge. "You’d be bored out of your mind, that’s what. Now, let’s get back to the movie before Ashton gets here and steals all the popcorn."

We finished the movie, laughing and joking like old times. For a few hours, it felt like we were kids again, without a care in the world. It was exactly what I needed—a reminder that there was still joy and laughter to be found, even in the midst of struggle.

Later in the afternoon, Luke and Michael showed up, bringing with them an assortment of snacks and a determination to keep the mood light. We spent the rest of the day playing board games, watching more movies, and just enjoying each other’s company.

When it was time for bed, Calum walked me to my room, his arm around my shoulders. "Today was a good day, Bella. We’ll have more of these, I promise."

I nodded, feeling a warmth in my chest. "Yeah, it was. Thanks, Cal."

He hugged me tightly, then stepped back with a smile. "Good night, Bella. Sleep well."