Secrets | 5SOS

[22]

Isabella had been looking forward to hanging out with Jasper at the skatepark all week. It was a place where they could both relax and be themselves, away from the pressures of school and family. As she walked towards the park, the sun was shining brightly, casting long shadows across the pavement.

When Isabella arrived, she saw Jasper already there, performing a series of impressive tricks on his skateboard. He waved as soon as he noticed her, skating over with a grin.

"Hey, Bella! You made it," Jasper said, his eyes lighting up.

"Of course, wouldn't miss it," Isabella replied, smiling back.

They spent the morning skating around, laughing and chatting. Jasper showed Isabella some new tricks, and she attempted to copy him, often ending up in fits of laughter when she fell. It was a perfect way to unwind after a stressful week.

As they took a break, sitting on a bench and sipping their drinks, Jasper's eyes fell on Isabella's wrists. For a moment, he was silent, and Isabella noticed his gaze lingering on the scars that marred her skin. She quickly pulled her sleeves down, but it was too late.

"Bella... what happened?" Jasper asked softly, genuine concern in his voice.

Isabella hesitated, feeling a lump form in her throat. "It's nothing, Jasper. Just... stuff from before."

Jasper shook his head, clearly not satisfied with her answer. "It's not nothing, Bella. Those scars tell a story, and it's not a happy one."

She sighed, looking down at her hands. "I went through a really tough time, Jasper. But I'm working on getting better. I have my brothers and friends like you to help me through it."

Jasper reached out and gently took her hand. "I just... I hate seeing you hurt. You know you can talk to me, right?"

Isabella nodded, squeezing his hand. "I know. And I appreciate it, Jasper. But really, I'm okay now. It's in the past."

He studied her for a moment, then gave a small nod. "Alright. But if you ever need to talk, I'm here. No matter what."

"Thank you, Jasper," Isabella said, feeling a warm rush of gratitude. "That means a lot."

After their serious conversation, they decided to lighten the mood with more skating. Jasper taught Isabella a few new tricks, and they challenged each other to races around the park. The rest of the afternoon was filled with laughter and friendly competition, the earlier tension melting away.

As the sun began to set, they found themselves sitting on the bench again, watching the sky turn shades of orange and pink.

"This was a good day," Isabella said, leaning back and stretching her legs out.

"It really was," Jasper agreed, smiling at her. "I'm glad we got to hang out."

"Me too. Thanks for being here, Jasper. And for caring," Isabella said, feeling a sense of calm.

"Anytime, Bella. You're important to me," Jasper replied, his tone sincere.

They sat in comfortable silence for a while longer, enjoying the peaceful evening. When it was time to head home, they parted ways with a promise to meet up again soon.

As Isabella walked back home, she felt a renewed sense of strength. She knew she had people who cared about her and who would support her no matter what. And that gave her hope for the future.