Half a heart

Chapter 92

Trigger Warnings: Anxiety, Mental Health, Emotional Distress

Charlie's POV

The hum of the car engine was steady, and the vibrations under the seat lulled me into a kind of numbness that I welcomed. Nick's arms were wrapped tightly around me, holding me close against his chest. I could feel his heartbeat-a steady rhythm, calming and grounding. I focused on it, trying to lose myself in the comfort he was offering, but the heaviness of today kept slipping in, like dark clouds covering up the light.

I pressed my face into Nick's shoulder, letting my eyes fall shut, hoping I could stay here, hidden and safe, for just a bit longer. Nick's hand moved gently along my back, a steady, comforting motion. I could hear him murmuring softly, "I've got you. I'm here." Each word was warm and reassuring, and I held onto them, letting his voice anchor me.

Jacob was sitting right next to us, his hand resting on my shoulder. Every now and then, I'd feel a gentle squeeze from him, reminding me that he was there too. He'd been my steady support through everything, like a protective wall that I could lean on whenever things felt overwhelming. His presence was solid and unbreakable, and knowing he was there beside me helped, more than he might ever know.

Liam was up in the passenger seat, his head turned back every so often, his eyes soft and filled with understanding. He gave me an encouraging smile each time, and I tried my best to return it, though I wasn't sure if it reached my eyes. Having him there felt like another layer of comfort-he was always the steady one, always making sure everyone felt safe. Today, he was making sure I was okay, and that meant more than I could put into words.

The police escort ahead of us was another reminder that this wasn't just a normal drive. The flashing lights, though muted, cast a glow that flickered through the windows, and every time I caught a glimpse of it, my stomach twisted a little tighter. I knew the others were following close behind in another car, and that small bit of knowledge brought me some comfort. Even though we were separated by a vehicle, I knew they were there, right behind me, ready to be by my side the moment I needed them.

I glanced up at Nick, who was looking down at me with so much care that I felt myself relax, even if just a bit. His fingers brushed along my shoulder, tracing soothing patterns, and I let out a shaky breath, grateful that he knew exactly what I needed without me having to say anything. He held me a little closer, resting his cheek against the top of my head, and I felt his own steady breathing, as if he was letting me borrow his strength.

The silence in the car was thick, but it wasn't uncomfortable. It was filled with all the unspoken words, all the quiet support from each of them. I knew they were there, each in their own way, offering me the strength to face what lay ahead. The reality of today felt heavy, a weight that pressed on my chest, and as much as I tried to push it down, it was always there, making it hard to breathe.

I pulled my knees up, curling in a little tighter, and Nick adjusted his hold, letting me settle even closer. His hand found mine, his fingers intertwining with mine, grounding me. "You don't have to do anything you're not ready for," he whispered, his voice soft. "We'll go at your pace, okay?"

I nodded, grateful for his understanding. It was hard to find words right now, harder than I'd expected. But having Nick, Jacob, and Liam here was like a steady pulse around me, a reminder that I wasn't alone.

The car slowed down, and I felt Jacob's hand give my shoulder a gentle squeeze. I knew we were getting closer, and the weight in my chest grew a little heavier. I could feel my heart beating faster, the nerves creeping in, but I tried to focus on Nick's hand in mine, on Jacob's solid presence beside me, on Liam's comforting glances. They were all here, and I knew they wouldn't let me face this alone.

"We're right here," Jacob said softly, his voice as steady as ever. "We'll walk in together, every step."

I nodded, swallowing hard, and leaned into Nick's shoulder, feeling his warmth against me. He was humming softly, a melody so quiet I almost couldn't hear it, but it was calming, like a reminder of home. And for a moment, I let myself get lost in it, letting the melody wrap around me like a blanket.

As we pulled into the lot, I could see the others stepping out of their car, waiting for us, their faces gentle but filled with understanding. Nick helped me out of the car, keeping a steady arm around my shoulders, and Jacob stayed close on my other side, a reassuring presence. I took a shaky breath, feeling the warmth of their support on either side of me, and took my first step forward, knowing they'd be with me, every step of the way.