Half a heart

Chapter 88

Trigger Warnings: Anxiety, Mental Health, Emotional Distress

Charlie's POV

The recording booth was quiet now, but my heart was still racing from everything I'd just done. Singing for the album-the whole experience felt like a dream. I knew I was pushing through, but having Jacob there, standing by, gave me the courage I needed.

As soon as I finished my last take, Jacob walked over, a proud smile on his face. He placed a hand on my shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze.

"Ready to head home, champ?" he asked, his voice steady and warm.

I nodded, and together we left the booth. My energy was fading fast, and by the time we got over to the couch, I was more than ready to sink into its comfort. I grabbed my weighted blanket, wrapping it around me as I stretched out, the familiar weight pressing down on me and helping my mind quiet. My eyes drifted closed, the sounds around me fading into a soft blur as I let myself sink into sleep.

When I woke again, I was in Jacob's arms, and he was carrying me up the stairs to my room. I felt warm and safe, tucked against his chest, and it reminded me of all the times he'd carried me before, always steady and careful. He laid me down on my bed, and I felt the soft pressure of my weighted blanket being draped over me.

I barely stirred as he slipped under the covers next to me, his presence close and grounding. I curled up closer to him, listening to his heartbeat, steady and calm, and it wasn't long before I drifted off again.

When I woke up the next time, I could feel Jacob's arm still wrapped around me, his breathing slow and peaceful. I shifted closer, resting my head on his shoulder and letting his heartbeat calm me down. I closed my eyes again, feeling that rhythm steady me, like it was tuning my own heartbeat to his.

The door creaked open, and I looked up to see Harry standing there, watching us with a soft smile. I stretched my arms toward him, wordlessly asking him to pick me up.

Without a word, Harry crossed the room and scooped me up, my weighted blanket still wrapped around me. I rested my head against his shoulder, feeling drowsy and warm as he carried me downstairs to where the others were waiting.

Once we reached the living room, Harry settled me onto the couch with everyone else. The familiar sounds of the boys' laughter and chatter surrounded me, and Louis immediately reached over, tugging me close and laying me down with my head in his lap. I relaxed there, the soft pressure of his hand running through my hair. My eyes felt heavy again, and I just focused on the feeling of his hand, the quiet comfort of being around all of them.

They put on a movie, something light and easy, and as the sounds of their laughter filled the room, I felt myself drifting off again, completely at ease. For the first time in a while, I let myself feel safe-right there, with them, as a family.