Closer - A Connections Sequel [Ongoing]

Thirty six

Valerie P.O.V.

I rested my head on Carter's shoulder, closing my eyes. He had his arm curled around me, leaning his head down on top of mine. It feels so surreal to be back here with him- it's like the past 24 hours or so was something of a nightmare I'd just woken up from.

Did that really all happen? Was I really kidnapped and locked up in a basement? Did that crazy guy really exist? Did the police really come in? Were gunshots really fired? Am I really safe now? It was just so much to absorb. It was utter chaos.

Yet, I felt a calmness keeping the chaos at bay. I sought out Carter's free hand and intertwined my fingers with his, resting it on his lap. His scent and warmth enveloped me, blanketing me in a safety net of love and comfort.

Finally the car stopped outside Kean and Ellana's house and we exited, thanking the officers for all their help.

This whole ordeal is really all over...

It was a complete blur as I walked from the car to the door, placing one foot in front of the other at a time. I was there, but I wasn't at the same time. I entered the home and was immediately bombarded with cries and hugs.

"Valerie!" My mom sobbed as she flung herself towards me. "Thank goodness you're safe!"

Tears escaped the corner of my eyes as I hugged her back. "It's good to see you mom." I whispered softly.

She pulled back and ran her worried gaze over my face, fussing with bits of my hair. "Are you okay honey? How are you?"

I nodded and swallowed, answering the basics. "I'm alright."

I then turned to Ellana who was patiently waiting for her turn. Her blue eyes were even sparkly than before with the gloss of tears shining over them.

Her pinched and anxious expression relaxed as she stepped forward to embrace me, rubbing my back gently. "I grabbed some comfy clothes for you and set up some things for a bath or a shower, some hot food, whatever you need, you tell me okay?"

I nodded gratefully and attempted a small smile. "Thankyou Ell."

Next was Carter's mom Samantha. "Oh baby." She squeezed me tightly, stroking my head. "You're safe."

I exhaled a deep breath and glanced at my surroundings. Everyone was watching me concernedly, as if I might break. "I might take Ellana up on that offer if that's okay with you guys?" I said softly.

Honestly, it was all a lot to take in, but being here with all this support around me, and knowing I was so loved and cherished made the situation less of a catastrophe.

"Of course, of course," Will cleared his throat loudly, speaking up for everyone. "Mom, dad and I are heading to a hotel nearby to stay, but we'll come see you tomorrow okay? Call us if you need anything, but I'm sure Carter will take good care of you."

They were hesitant to leave, but knew I needed to get cleaned up and have some time to settle down.

"I will. Thankyou for being here." I approached each member of my family to bid them goodnight. "I love you guys."

"We love you too dear." My mom replied, pecking a kiss on my temple before they left.

Samantha and Dave also bid their goodbyes and left.

"Come on princess, let's go to the bathroom." Carter murmured, taking my hand. I let him lead me in silence before we entered. Once inside, he locked the door behind him. Just like Ellana said, she'd set the bathroom up with fresh towels, candles, bath accessories and a set of warm clothes.