Love is a risk

Big brother

The next morning, as the lights flickered on, Dailina stirred but didn't feel like getting up. The weight of homesickness pressed down on her, and she missed her family—especially her dads. She turned into Isaiah's stomach, seeking the comfort of his warmth.

He instinctively wrapped his arms around her and kissed the top of her head gently. "Are you okay?" he murmured, sensing her mood.

Dailina shook her head softly. "I miss my dads," she admitted, her voice muffled against him.

He held her tighter for a moment, offering silent support before she finally drifted back to sleep. After a little while, Isaiah carefully slipped out of bed and took a quick shower, trying to shake off the lingering sleepiness.

Once he was dressed, he stepped outside and noticed the girls gathered around the makeup room, chatting and laughing as they prepared for the day. He felt a sense of normalcy in the air but couldn't shake the concern for Dailina, who was still in bed.

Deciding to check on her, he went back inside and found Justine lounging on the couch. "Hey, man," Isaiah said. "Dailina isn't coming out of bed. I think something's up."

Justine looked thoughtful for a moment. "Oh, right... Today's the anniversary of her best friend's passing, isn't it?"

Isaiah's heart sank as the realization hit him. "Yeah, I guess I didn't put it together. Even though we're all in this villa, she probably remembers the date so clearly."

"Exactly," Justine replied. "It can be hard for her, especially in a new environment."

Without hesitation, Justine stood up. "I'll go check on her," he said, heading toward Dailina's room.

When he knocked softly, Dailina's voice came from inside, muffled but clear. "Who is it?"

"It's Justine," he replied gently. "Can I come in?"

"Yeah, sure," she said, and Justine entered to find her still in bed, her expression distant.

"Hey, I just wanted to check on you," he said softly. "I know today is a tough day."

Dailina looked up, her eyes a little glassy. "Yeah, it is. I just... I don't feel like doing much today."

"Do you want some company?" he offered, sensing she could use a friend. "We can just hang out or talk if you need to."

After a moment, she nodded slowly. "That would be nice."

Justine smiled and encouraged her gently. "Why don't you get changed? We can grab some breakfast together afterward."

Dailina took a deep breath, grateful for his understanding. "Okay, give me a minute." She climbed out of bed and quickly changed into something comfortable but fresh, feeling a little more ready to face the day with Justine by her side.