𝐈𝐍 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐀𝐑𝐌𝐒 , ᶻᵃʸⁿ ᵐᵃˡⁱᵏ

back in the fold

I can't believe I have to leave in less than an hour. I'm sitting here in a flurry of clothes and chaos, my mind racing faster than my hands. After the call from Maria, it hit me—I need to pack my entire life into a suitcase.

I started tossing outfits into my bag, mentally running through everything I might need for the music video shoot. A couple of statement pieces for the camera, a few comfy ones for downtime, and, of course, the perfect outfit for my return.

"Where's that dress?" I muttered, digging through a pile of clothes. I can't find anything in this mess. As I grabbed a pair of heels, I caught a glimpse of Liam lounging on the couch, watching me with that amused smirk.

"What?" I snapped, though I knew I sounded a bit frantic.

"You look crazy," he said, chuckling softly.

I rolled my eyes but couldn't help the smile tugging at my lips. "Yeah, ok.  On a bit of a mission to not forget anything important."

Finally, I tossed in my favorite jacket and my go-to makeup bag. I took a deep breath, feeling the adrenaline kick in. This was it. A whirlwind of excitement, nerves, and maybe a touch of panic.

"Okay, I think I'm ready?" I said, glancing at the clock. Just enough time to grab Juno and get out the door.

I scooped Juno into my arms, feeling the familiar weight of her squirming body. As I headed toward the door, I felt Liam's presence behind me.

"You're not taking all that yourself," he said flatly, reaching for my suitcase and duffel bag without waiting for a response.

I paused, surprised by his abruptness. "I can manage," I insisted, trying to keep my voice steady.

He didn't look at me, just continued to grab my bags, his expression unreadable. "You shouldn't have to."

"Thanks, I guess," I muttered.

I looked at Juno, "Ready, girl?" I whispered to her, and she wagged her tail, looking just as eager as I felt.

Liam turned, heading for the door without another word, his long strides making it clear he was in a hurry. I followed behind, juggling juno in my arms.

Touchdown! The plane finally landed, and the excitement was buzzing through me. I could barely wait to get out of my seat and into the world. But stepping off the plane? Total chaos.

As soon as I hit the terminal, it was like a scene from a movie—cameras flashing, fans screaming my name. I shoved my sunglasses on, trying to block out the bright lights and the noise that felt like a tidal wave crashing over me. I just needed a second to breathe.

Liam was right behind me, all calm and collected. I glanced back at him, and he was already scanning the crowd. Then, out of nowhere, a fan darted past security, rushing straight toward me. "Serena! Can I get a pic?" she yelled, practically bouncing with excitement.

Before I could even react, Liam stepped in front of me. "Hey, give her some space," he said, his voice steady. I could feel the tension, but I appreciated how protective he was being.

The fan blinked, a little shocked. "It's just a quick picture!"

Liam held his ground, keeping a cool demeanor. "I get it, but she needs room right now," he replied, making it clear he meant business.

I smiled, trying to ease the moment. "Just a sec!" I called out, appreciating Liam's instinct to keep things calm.

"Let's keep moving," he said, guiding me away from the crowd. I took a deep breath as we walked, the noise slowly fading into the background.