Hold On I Still Need You

-A Night to Remember-

Sophie's POV:

As soon as Keefe and I enter the house, a sense of relief washes over me. The atmosphere is vibrant with laughter, music, and lively conversations. There's a comforting feeling that makes this place feel like home instantly. The soft lights, the aroma of food, and the joyful chatter create a sense of normalcy and reality that is truly comforting.

Biana and Fitz have gone all out this time, making sure every detail is perfect for this celebration. The room is adorned with colorful streamers, the snack table is overflowing with delicious treats, and there's a cozy warmth in the air. Fitz's smile hasn't been this bright in weeks.

Keefe is standing beside me, his carefree grin in place as always. However, there's a subtle closeness in his presence, a silent assurance that he's looking out for me without needing to say anything. I steal a glance at him, and our eyes lock for a moment. In that brief exchange, we share an unspoken connection that goes beyond our usual banter and jokes. We've both grown and evolved in our own ways. Tonight feels like a small victory, a glimmer of hope that healing is within reach, not just a distant dream.

I take a slow breath, savoring the joy that surrounds me. It's a strange but peaceful feeling. For once, the shadows in my mind have faded, and I am fully present with the people I trust, those who have always been by my side. This night feels like the beginning of a new chapter. Perhaps it's because I'm starting to believe that no matter what challenges lie ahead, I won't have to face them alone.

The moment I step into the living room, the atmosphere shifts from cozy to chaotic in the best way possible. Keefe and I drop our bags by the door, already being pulled into the action. Biana's sitting cross-legged on the floor, grinning as she waves us over.

"You guys ready for some serious fun?" she asks, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

I raise an eyebrow. "What did you have in mind?"

"Oh, just a little game of Truth or Dare," she says, almost too sweetly, as if she's already plotting our humiliation. Fitz is next to her, already with a competitive look on his face, like he's preparing to win, even though it's just a game.

Keefe snickers and nudges me. "I've got this in the bag. Prepare to be amazed by my bravery."

I roll my eyes but can't help smiling. "You mean your lack of shame?"

He grins, already settling beside me on the couch. "Same thing."

The game kicks off, and almost immediately, chaos ensues. Tam, looking a little uncomfortable in the spotlight, is dared to do an impression of Linh's deadpan face. His attempt is so awkward that everyone bursts out laughing, even Linh, who usually keeps her emotions under wraps. Marella doesn't let him off easy. "Better try again, or I'll have to call you out for that poker face fail."

"I'm trying my best!" Tam mutters, red-faced but good-natured about it.

Fitz doesn't waste any time. He leans forward, pointing at Dex. "Alright, Dex—Truth or Dare?"

"Dare! No question," Dex answers immediately, his enthusiasm practically bouncing off the walls.

"Alright," Fitz smirks. "I dare you to do your best impersonation of Biana. Extra points if you get her dramatic hand gestures down."

Dex grins and takes a dramatic stance. "Oh my gosh, Fitz," he says, mimicking her pitch-perfect tone. "I swear, if you don't stop acting like such a guy, I'm going to—"

Biana laughs so hard she nearly falls over. "Okay, okay, that was too much. I'm never speaking to you again," she teases, wiping her eyes.

I'm laughing too, completely caught up in the warm energy of the group. It's so different from the quiet, solitary nights I'm used to. For the first time in a long time, I don't feel like I'm carrying the weight of the world on my shoulders. The tension in my chest loosens, and I'm laughing just as freely as the others.