Comeback (Sequel to 'Before the Storm')

Chapter 9: She's Gone

Joe's POV

The world blurred around me, my vision obscured by unshed tears. My chest felt tight, each breath a struggle as the reality of what just happened crashed over me in waves.

Ally was gone. We are over.

My legs felt weak, my whole body trembling as I pounded on their front door.

Kevin opened it, his eyes widening in shock. "Joe? What's wrong?"

I opened my mouth to speak, but no words came out. Instead, a choked sob escaped my lips as my knees buckled. Kevin caught me, pulling me inside.

"Dani!" he called out, alarm clear in his voice, "It's Joe, something's wrong!"

They guided me to the couch, but I couldn't sit still. My heart was racing, pounding so hard I thought it might burst out of my chest. I couldn't breathe. Why couldn't I breathe?

"Joe, hey, look at me," Kevin's voice cut through the panic.

He gripped my shoulders, forcing me to meet his gaze.

"Breathe with me, ok? In... and out. In... and out."

I tried to follow his lead, but my breaths came in short, sharp gasps.

"She's gone," I managed to choke out, "Ally... she... we're over."

Dani's hand was on my back, rubbing soothing circles.

"Joe, you're having a panic attack. Just focus on breathing for now."

Minutes passed as I struggled to regain control. Gradually, my breathing slowed, the vice-like grip on my chest easing slightly. I slumped forward, exhausted.

"What happened?" Kevin asked gently.

Through broken sobs, I recounted the conversation with Ally. The pain in her eyes, the finality in her voice as she ended things.

"I've lost her," I whispered, "I've lost my everything."

Kevin and Dani exchanged a look I couldn't quite decipher.

"Joe," Dani said softly, "I think I should go check on Ally. Is that ok?"

I nodded numbly. As much as it hurt, I wanted to make sure Ally was alright. Dani squeezed my hand before standing.

"Kevin will stay with you. Try to rest. This isn't the end, Joe. It's just a difficult chapter."

As the front door closed behind Dani, Kevin gently put a supportive hand on my shoulder. He studied my face, concern etched in his features.

"Joe, let's get you some water," Kevin said, standing up, "You need to stay hydrated after a panic attack like that."

I nodded weakly, watching as Kevin disappeared into the kitchen. He returned moments later with a glass of water and a damp washcloth.

"Here," Kevin said, handing me the glass, "Small sips."

As I took the water, Kevin used the washcloth to wipe my tear-stained face. The cool fabric soothing against my flushed skin.

"Thanks," I mumbled, my voice hoarse.

Kevin sat back down beside me. "Do you want to talk about it?"

I took a shaky breath. "I don't know what to do, Kev. I love her so much. The thought of not having her in my life is killing me."

"I know," Kevin said softly, "But Joe, you need to respect her decision. She's been through a traumatic experience."

"But it wasn't my fault!" I protested, a fresh wave of pain washing over me, "I told her the truth about Sophie. She said she believed me."

Kevin nodded. "Sometimes it's not about fault, Joe. It's about healing. Ally needs time to process everything that's happened."

My shoulders slumped. "So what, I just give up? Let her go?"

"Not give up," Kevin corrected gently, "Give her space. Show her you respect her needs, even when it hurts you. That's real love, Joe."

Tears welled up in my eyes again. "What if she never comes back?"

Kevin squeezed my shoulder. "Then you'll have to find a way to move forward. But Joe, don't lose hope yet. Ally loves you and sometimes love needs time and space to grow stronger."

I nodded, wiping my eyes. "I just... I feel so lost without her."

"I know," Kevin said, "And it's ok to feel that way. You're allowed to grieve, to be angry, to be scared. Just remember, you're not alone in this. We're all here for you."

I leaned into my brother, feeling a mix of gratitude and overwhelming sadness.

"Thanks, Kev. I don't know what I'd do without you guys."

Kevin wrapped an arm around my shoulders.

"That's what family is for. We've got your back, always. Now, why don't you lie down and try to rest? I'll be right here if you need anything."

Closing my eyes, exhaustion finally overtook me, as I silently hoped that Ally was finding the peace she needed.