The Love Story Between Sophie Thompson And Niall Horan

Chapter 42 Going Home Back To England

June 21st 2016

Sophie's Point Of View

The soft glow of dawn filtered through the curtains of Niall's childhood bedroom, casting a warm light over everything. I lay on my side, staring at the familiar walls adorned with posters from his teenage years. It was hard to believe that just yesterday we'd celebrated with his family, those who couldn't attend our wedding. Now, here I was, filled with a bittersweet mix of joy and sadness.

Niall stirred beside me, his sleepy eyes fluttering open. "Morning," he mumbled, his voice thick with sleep.

"Morning," I replied softly, my heart heavy. "It's 5:00 AM already. We should get up soon."

"Do we have to?" he sighed, burying his face into his pillow. "I wish we could stay here a little longer."

I couldn't help but smile at his childlike pout. "I know, me too. Yesterday was so special. Your family was amazing."

He turned to me, a hint of a smile on his lips. "Yeah, it felt so good to have everyone together, even if it wasn't the wedding itself."

I nodded, my throat tightening as the memories of laughter and joy washed over me. "But now we have to go back home. It feels... sad."

Niall reached out and took my hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "I hate saying goodbye, especially after such a perfect day. But we'll come back. This place is part of me, and now it's part of us."

"Right," I said, trying to stay positive. "But I'll miss it. I'll miss your family, the fun we had... everything."

"Hey," he said gently, tilting my chin so I met his gaze, "we have our whole lives ahead of us. And so many more memories to make. Just think of all the adventures waiting for us."

I smiled, feeling a little lighter. "You always know what to say to make me feel better."

"That's what I'm here for," he said with a wink. "Now, come on. We need to get moving before we miss our flight."

After a hurried breakfast, Greg arrived to pick us up. He stepped out of the car, his usual warm smile greeting us. "Ready for the airport?"

"Yeah," I replied, feeling a twinge of sadness at the thought of leaving.

As we loaded our luggage into the trunk, Greg helped us with our bags, his movements easy and familiar. "You guys had a great party last night," he remarked, glancing back at us. "I'm glad you got to celebrate with everyone."

"Thanks, Greg. It really meant a lot to us," Niall said, a hint of appreciation in his voice.

Once everything was packed, we climbed into the back seat. The car ride felt different—quieter, more reflective—as we drove toward the airport.

When we finally arrived, Greg parked and turned to us with a sincere look. "I'm going to miss you guys. It was wonderful having you home, even for a little while."

Niall and I stepped out of the car, and Greg pulled us both into a warm hug. "Take care, okay? Can't wait to see you again soon."

"Thanks for everything, Greg," I said, feeling a swell of gratitude.

As we watched him drive away, I took a deep breath, steeling myself for the journey ahead. Yes, it was hard to leave, but with Niall by my side, I felt ready to embrace whatever came next.

Walking into the airport, the familiar hustle and bustle surrounded us. The sound of rolling suitcases and distant announcements filled the air, but I felt like we were in our own little bubble. Niall took my hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze as we approached the check-in counter.