Chapter 20 - Zayn

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Devastated is the only word that can describe Zayn's feelings at this moment. He watches as the apartment building smolders, with ash, rubble, and murky water cascading from the structure he has called home for seven years. Everything around him feels surreal. The building isn't on fire anymore, but firefighters remain, ensuring the scene is safe and no lingering embers could reignite the blaze. His neighbors surround him, equally devastated, trying to ensure their loved ones are okay.

Zayn feels numb as he stands here, his mind struggling to process the chaos around him. He catches snippets of conversation - they're unsure what caused the fire, but it seems to have started on his floor - yet it all feels distant and muffled. His eyes dart around, searching for familiar faces in the crowd. He spots Kehlani kneeling on the ground, hugging Pepper and Aaron from across the hall, consoling his sobbing wife.

"Zayn, are you there?" Justin's worried voice comes through the phone. "Are you okay? Is Bellatrix okay?" Justin asks next.

"I'm fine, and she's alright. She was with the sitter, and they were out of the building at the time," Zayn says, holding Bellatrix close.

His day had been going well. He'd completed an amazing tattoo for a sweet guy who got a piece for his little sister, whom he had been raising as his own. After that, he had lunch with Niall, and they did some shopping before returning to work. His day was good until he turned onto his apartment's street, only to see it in flames with firefighters combating the blaze.

His immediate reaction was panic; his dog and friends were inside. Some of that panic subsided when he saw Julie, the dog sitter, holding Bellatrix, looking just as shocked as the other residents on the curb. He soon learned that everyone had escaped safely, allowing him to breathe a sigh of relief. It wasn't until he called Justin, his boyfriend, that it really hit him. The full weight of the situation crashed down on him as Justin's concerned voice echoed through the phone.

Zayn's voice trembled as he continued, "I... I've lost everything. All my artwork, my supplies, my clothes... It's all gone."

Justin's voice softened, filled with sympathy and concern. "I'm so sorry, babe. I can't imagine what you're going through right now. Listen, Harry and I will be down there as soon as we can. We'll figure this out together, okay?" Zayn nodded, forgetting for a moment that Justin couldn't see him. "Yeah, okay." He managed to whisper.

As Zayn ended the call, he noticed a police officer approaching the group of residents. The officer began explaining the next steps - temporary housing arrangements, insurance claims, and the ongoing investigation. Zayn listened half-heartedly, his mind still reeling from the shock. He feels a gentle nudge against his arm and looks down to see Bellatrix gazing up at him with worried eyes.

"We'll be okay, girl." he murmured, more to reassure himself than his loyal companion. Zayn turns around when he hears a familiar voice calling his name.

"Niall? What are you doing here?" Zayn asks as Niall gets out of his car and walks up to him

"Harry texted me saying you needed someone here." Niall says, rushing over, his face etched with concern. He wraps Zayn in a tight hug, careful not to disturb Bellatrix.

"I'm so glad you're here," Zayn mumbles into Niall's shoulder, feeling a wave of relief wash over him. As they pull apart, Niall keeps a steadying hand on Zayn's arm.

"Of course, mate. I came as soon as I heard. How are you holding up?" Niall asks, his eyes scanning Zayn's face worriedly. Zayn shakes his head, struggling to find the words. "I... I don't know. It doesn't feel real, you know?"

Niall nods sympathetically. "I can't even imagine. Listen, why don't we get you and Bellatrix out of here? You look like you could use some sleep.”

Zayn hesitates, glancing back at the smoldering building. "But what about...?"

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⏰ Last updated: Jul 15 ⏰

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