Forever ; W.S

20. Lost without you

IRL

Walker was in high spirits as he walked into his house, still riding the high from reconnecting with Penelope. He threw his bag onto his bed and picked up his phone to text Brady.

Noon 🌇

Yo, up for some Fortnite tonight?

Always
Let's get that dub.

Walker booted up his computer, the familiar hum of the machine and the bright screen coming to life was comforting. He donned his headset and joined the party chat just as Brady's voice crackled through.

"What's up, dude?" Brady greeted. "Hey, man. Ready to carry me?" Walker teased as he launched the game. Brady laughed. "You wish. So, how's everything? You still on cloud nine?" Walker nodded, even though Brady couldn't see him. "Yeah, things are looking up. Penelope and I are gonna take it slow, but at least we're talking again."

"That's awesome, man. I knew you two would figure it out," Brady said. "Alright, where are we dropping?" The two of them jumped into the game, their characters parachuting down into a brightly colored landscape. Walker focused on looting and building, the familiar rhythm of the game helping him unwind. As they played, they chatted about everything from school to the latest movies, the conversation flowing as easily as the game.

"You know," Walker said, his voice thoughtful as he maneuvered his character around a building, "I've been thinking a lot about everything that happened with Penelope. I was so jealous of Dylan, and it just messed with my head." Brady sniped an enemy from a distance, his character doing a little victory dance. "Jealousy can do that. But you realized it, and you're working on it. That's what matters."

Walker sighed, grateful for Brady's straightforward wisdom. "Yeah, I guess. I just don't want to mess things up again." Brady's voice softened. "You won't. Just be honest with her and with yourself. And don't rush things." Walker smiled, feeling the weight of the past few weeks lift a bit. "Thanks, man. I appreciate it."

They continued playing, their teamwork improving with each match. Between games, they shared jokes and stories, the easy banter a reminder of the strength of their friendship. Hours passed, and they finally decided to call it a night after securing a hard-fought victory. Walker leaned back in his chair, stretching and feeling a sense of contentment.

Walker turned off his computer and lay back on his bed, staring at the ceiling. His phone buzzed with a message, and he saw it was from Penelope.

Lola 💓
Hey, how was your night?

Pretty good
Played some Fortnite with Brady.
How about you?

Just hung out with Sunny
It was nice

Nice
Maybe we can all hang out together sometime?

I'd like that
Let's plan something soon

Walker felt a warmth in his chest, a sense of hope and possibility. He knew there were still challenges ahead, but for now, things were looking up.

Sounds good
Night, Lola

Good night, Walks.

Walker set his phone down and closed his eyes, a smile on his face. Tomorrow was a new day, and he was ready to face it with his friends by his side and a renewed sense of purpose in his heart.