Hold On I Still Need You

-A Fun Filled Day-

*Song: "Brand New Morning" Sun Heat 

Sophie's POV:

Gentle rays of the morning sun began to filter through the curtains, as it coaxed me awake. Signaling the start of a new day. The ray's casted a comforting warmth over skin. For the first time in what felt like forever, I opened my eyes and didn't feel the heavy shadow or worry that usually looms over me. Today was different. I could sense it.

Today felt like it was going to be a nice breath of fresh air.

Grady and Edaline greeted me with smiles as I entered the kitchen, smiles that matched the brightness of the beautiful morning. "Today is a beautiful Saturday. You did have a medical routine today but it had to be moved to Monday." Grady announced, his voice carrying a gentle lightness. "So today we want you to take a day to enjoy yourself with your friends."

A rush of excitement fell over me mixed with cautious optimism. "Really?" I asked, hardly believing what I was hearing. The thought of a carefree day seemed almost foreign, yet incredibly inviting. It's been awhile since I was able to relax and forget the constant worry that haunted my days.

Keefe joined us for breakfast again, and I didn't mind at all. I enjoyed having him over. He often spent most of his time at our place because he didn't like being around his parents. I couldn't blame him; I wouldn't want to be around his so-called parents either. Despite his difficult situation, Keefe always found a way to have fun and was full of energy.

"Let's see if our friends can hang out?" he suggested, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "We can gather everyone! Biana, Fitzypoo, Dex, Marella, Linh and I suppose Bangs Boy can come too." He said, rolling his eyes at his nickname for Tam, "We can have the best day ever!" Keefe said excitedly.

His enthusiasm was infectious, and I couldn't help but smile. "That sounds amazing," I agreed, feeling a warmth spread through me. It had been too long since I'd spent a day simply enjoying the company of my friends, free from the burden of treatments and medical routines.

We quickly set our plans into motion, the promise of a fun-filled day hanging in the air like the sweet scent of blossoms in spring. It was a much-needed break, a chance to celebrate not just my recovery, but the strength and support of the friends who had been there for me every step of the way.

The morning sunlight filtered through the kitchen windows, casting a warm glow over the breakfast table. I couldn't help but smile as Keefe made a grand show of examining my plate, raising an eyebrow at my choice of fruit and toast. "Really, Foster? Just toast? You know you're missing out on a world of flavors," he teased, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

I rolled my eyes but couldn't suppress a giggle. "Oh, and what culinary masterpiece do you have there, Keefe?" I retorted, nodding towards his stack of pancakes drizzled with every syrup known to mankind. His exaggerated shrug and grin only fueled the laughter that echoed through the room.

As we finished our breakfast, the conversation turned to plans for the day. Everyone had a different idea, from hiking in the nearby forest to spending the afternoon at the amusement park. The debate was lively, but eventually, we agreed on a mix of both—something for everyone to enjoy.

Grady and Edaline watched our animated discussion with fond smiles. It was a relief to see their worries momentarily lifted, even though they still kept a protective eye on me. "Just make sure to take breaks, Sophie," Edaline reminded me gently, her hand resting on my shoulder. I nodded, appreciating their concern even as I longed for a day where I wasn't the center of everyone's attention.

The excitement in the air was infectious. I felt a spark of energy I hadn't felt in a long time, eager to embrace the day with my friends and momentarily forget the shadow of my illness. Keefe leaned in close as we headed out the door, his tone softening, "Don't worry, Foster. I've got your back. Just promise not to overdo it, okay?"