Fight With Me

Chapter 29

The first light of morning filtered through the curtains, casting a soft, golden hue over the room. Hope lay on her back, eyes slowly fluttering open. She turned her head slightly to see Josie curled up beside her, her face peaceful but tear-streaked, her body still tense even in sleep. The memories of the previous night flooded back—Lizzie's attack, the harsh words exchanged, the storm of emotions.

Hope gently brushed a strand of hair away from Josie's face, her fingers lingering as she took in the sadness still etched in her features. As if sensing her touch, Josie stirred, her eyes opening slowly.

"Morning," Hope whispered, her voice soft, not wanting to startle her.

Josie blinked, her dark eyes meeting Hope's. For a moment, she said nothing, just stared as if gathering her thoughts. "I don't know how to face her," she finally said, her voice barely above a whisper.

"You don't have to worry about that right now," Hope replied, her tone reassuring. "We'll figure it out together. You're not alone in this."

Josie sighed, her gaze dropping to the blanket. "But it feels like I am sometimes, you know? Like no matter what I do, it's never enough for her."

Hope shifted closer, wrapping an arm around her. "You are enough, Josie. Lizzie's been dealing with a lot, but that doesn't excuse how she treats you. You deserve better. And we'll make sure you get it."

Josie leaned into Hope's embrace, her tension easing slightly. "Thank you, Hope. I don't know what I'd do without you."

"You won't have to find out," Hope murmured, pressing a soft kiss to the top of Josie's head. "I'm here for you."

After a few more moments of silence, the sound of movement downstairs caught their attention. Hope smiled softly. "Sounds like Freya and Keelin are up. Come on, let's go see what's going on."

Josie hesitated but nodded, slowly sitting up. Together, they got out of bed and made their way downstairs.

As they reached the kitchen, the smell of freshly made pancakes filled the air. Freya was at the stove, flipping a pancake onto a growing stack while Keelin set the table. Rebekah leaned against the counter, sipping a cup of coffee, her face brightening as soon as she saw the two girls.

"Well, look who finally decided to join us," Rebekah teased lightly. "We thought you two might sleep the whole day away."

"We thought you could use a nice breakfast after everything," Freya said, her tone warm as she gestured toward the food. "And... maybe a little distraction. How about a shopping trip? You girls could use a break."

Josie looked hesitant, glancing at Hope. "I don't know. I'm not really in the mood."

But Hope smiled, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "I think that's exactly why we should go. It'll be fun, trust me."

Josie sighed. "Fine, but I'm not buying anything."

The day was filled with laughter and playful protests as Hope led Josie from store to store, buying her things despite her objections. Every time Josie tried to argue, Hope just smirked and waved her off, loading her arms with clothes and gifts.

"Hope, seriously, you don't have to do this," Josie said, exasperated as they left yet another boutique.

"But I want to," Hope replied, her grin unrelenting. "And you deserve it. Now stop arguing and let me spoil you."

Josie rolled her eyes but couldn't help the small smile tugging at her lips. "You're impossible."

"And you love it," Hope teased, grabbing Josie's hand and pulling her toward the next shop.