Insane?

Chapter 25:

*SHAWN'S POV:

Sitting opposite of an newly finished desk, my hands gripped lightly at the edges of the armrests. There was a slight ringing in my ears due to the naturally silent atmosphere, but this felt different. My breath hitched. Did those words really come from him? Was he serious?

"You seemed surprised?" he questioned, raising an eyebrow, "Is everything okay?"

"Oh, yeah yeah, everything's fine. To be honest I- I just wasn't expecting it"

"Well I think you and I can both agree it's been a successful time here. You came to us with health concerns and the team worked with it. Though tests showed no visible symptoms or results, we listened to what we were told and looked for signs. Yes they were found, but you've seemed to make improvements rather quickly. I don't see a need for your stay any longer, so as I said, your release it set for tomorrow." he explained, signing a form. "You'll preform one last exit meeting with Dr. Collins and then be on your way. If there's any concern or questions, they will relate to her."

"Thank you, sir." I said, resting on the edge of the chair. "I appreciate all that's be done for me."

"It's what we do here, Shawn." he stood, reaching his hand out to shake. "Be cautious, however. Even a dormant volcano has the potential to erupt once again."

Shaking his hand, I nodded as he led me out to the hall. Start tying up loose ends with the others, he suggested, shutting the door behind him. I'm going home. Was there anything really wrong with me? Of course there was—maybe it was a phase? I don't know. I can't explain it. No one can explain it. Telling Soph is gonna be exciting, though I hope Damon and Wesley won't be too upset by the departure. We've grown pretty close these last few weeks.

A sweet, boisterous voice rang through the hall I was approaching and I instantly smiled. Sophie was doing some room checks as she escorted a recreation group to an activity they couldn't find. Afternoon, Shawn, she said professionally once we locked eyes.

"And to you, Miss Woodsley." I joked back, leaning against the wall. "I have something to tell you when we get to the cafeteria."

"You'll have to come find me then." she challenged, strolling down the hall. "I look forward to the news."

Deciding to head to lunch, I turned around and walked to the cafeteria area. The line was fairly slow-moving so I sat down at the usual table and waited for the others to arrive. Sophia appeared with another group and guided them to the line, occasionally making her way down and conversing with the numerous patients waiting. For as timid as she is in new environments, she was flourishing in this field. People respected her voice and kindness. There was a balance between authority with friendship. I was so proud of her and what she's accomplished—and will accomplish soon enough.

"Someone looks anxious." Holly spoke, sitting down at the table.

"I'm getting released tomorrow." I blurted, looking down at my hands perched on the table.

"Really? Good for you, bud!" she cheered, punching me in the arm.

"Ow," I laughed, "thanks,"

She shoved a fork into her mouth, mumbling, "Have you told anyone else yet?"

"Not yet, I just got-"

"Ah, big man just told you didn't he? Exit interview is next with the big lady then."

"Uh, yeah," I laughed.

"This ain't my first rodeo, Mendes." she explained, "Coming from me, make sure you keep yourself well."

"I'm gonna try my best." I nodded.

"Alright, I'll see you later then." Holly waved, picking up her tray with one hand stomping away to another table. Before I could turn to look for any others, I heard a familiar bit of sarcasm come from behind.