Hold On I Still Need You

-The Truth is Told-

 Song: "Truth Be Told" Mathew West

Sophie's POV:

I looked around the room at my friends: Biana, the beautiful sparkle queen; Fitz, the charming one with movie star looks; Dex, the mastermind behind gadgets and tech; Linh, the water-loving girl with a gentle spirit; Tam, the emo boy with silver tips who faded into the shadows; Marella, the fiery girl who hated nicknames for herself; and Keefe, the mischievous boy with The Hair. They laughed and chatted, their usual camaraderie filling the air.

Despite the comforting presence of my friends, I couldn't shake the burden of my secret illness. The weight of it seemed to increase with each passing moment. They were unaware of my condition, and I wasn't sure when I would be ready to reveal it to them. However, I knew that I might have to disclose the truth before it was too late, but I was uncertain about the right time to do so. Every time I considered opening up to them, I hesitated and ultimately backed away.

I tried to conceal my exhaustion and the strain of the train journey, but I couldn't help but notice the subtle shifts in my friends' behavior. Apart from Keefe, I could hear a touch of concern in their laughter, and their gazes lingered on me a bit longer than usual. Biana, in particular, had a thoughtful look in her eyes, as if she was trying to uncover the truth that I was determined to keep hidden.

My heart was filled with gratitude for their care, but I also felt increasingly isolated because of the secret I shared with Keefe. Just as my thoughts started to spiral, Keefe glanced at me, bringing me back to the present. Despite his carefree demeanor, his ice blue eyes revealed a depth of understanding that showed he knew about my struggles. He was the only one of my friends who knew my secret.

We are all gathered on the back deck of Biana and Fitz's house, enjoying a relaxing afternoon together. Soaking in the afternoon sunshine. Snacks and drinks were placed on a nearby table. However, as I looked around, I could sense the tension building up. Biana glanced at me, and I could tell she also felt that something was off.

"Sophie," Biana begins, her voice gentle but insistent. "We've all noticed you've been different lately.... Is there something you're not telling us?" She says finally addressing the unspoken.

My stomach is in knots, my heart pounding against my chest. I've been trying to hide my illness for so long, but my friend's concern is impossible to ignore. I had hoped to keep it hidden longer, but it seems that secrets have a way of coming to light. I should have known this day would come eventually, and now it has. The weight of keeping up the façade is suffocating, and I can feel the walls closing in. Every glance, every word from them feels like it's pushing me closer to the edge of truth.

The group falls into a heavy silence, their eyes all focused on me. Keefe steps forward, standing protectively by my side, sensing my unease. He knew this moment would come, and now it has arrived. However, he also understands my reluctance to share the truth about my struggle. He knows how hard it is for me to open up, how much I've fought to keep my pain hidden from everyone. His presence is a silent reminder that, no matter how difficult this moment is, I don't have to face it alone.

Taking a deep breath, my voice quivering yet steady, I decided to finally tell them the truth. "I've been sick for a while," I confessed, my heart hammering as I met their gazes. "I didn't want you to worry." A mix of shock and understanding filled their expressions as the questions began to pour in. However, the group's empathy shone through as they processed my revelation. In the silence that followed, I could feel the weight of their concern. Though the truth was out, it didn't seem as terrifying as I had imagined. Their unspoken but undeniable support wrapped around me like a safety net.