Jay's POV:
The driveway seemed endless, winding through perfectly manicured lawns until I finally saw it — the mansion. My heart skipped a beat. I didn't know whether to scream, cry, or just run straight inside.
Keeper, Stella, and David were already waiting at the grand entrance, grinning like kids who had just pulled off the best surprise ever.
"Come on, little baby," Keeper said, holding the door open. "Your kingdom awaits."
I stumbled inside, and my jaw almost hit the floor. The mansion was huge, each room more breathtaking than the last — chandeliers that sparkled like stars, furniture so elegant it felt unreal, and walls lined with paintings that made me feel like I'd stepped into a dream.
Stella came up behind me, holding a large box tied with a ribbon. "This is just the beginning, Jay. Jewelry, clothes, whatever you want — it's all yours."
I opened it, and my eyes widened. There were sparkling necklaces, delicate earrings, shoes, gowns — enough to fill a small boutique. I laughed, half in disbelief, half in joy.
David appeared, carrying another box. "And this one's for the nights you want to feel like a queen," he said with a wink. I peeked inside — more dresses, heels, designer bags. I didn't even know where to start.
As I pulled out a glittering necklace, my mind wandered. Section E… My friends — my chaotic, messy, hilarious Section E — they had been there through so much.
The pranks, the laughter, even the small arguments that seemed so big at the time. Felix trying to act brave, Calix sneaking snacks into class, Mayo and Edrix laughing so hard they couldn't breathe… and Cin, my Cin, who had once been my closest, before betrayal tore everything apart.
A lump formed in my throat. The memories hit me like waves — laughter and warmth mixed with hurt and loss. I loved them once. And now… I didn't even know if I could.
I felt the tears come, sudden and hot. I tried to blink them back, but my hands shook as I held the necklace. My chest felt tight, like the happiness and pain were colliding all at once.
Keeper was immediately at my side, wrapping his arms around me. Stella and David flanked us, their presence steady and grounding.
"It's okay, little baby," Keeper whispered. "Let it out. We're here."
I sank against him, unable to form words. "I… I just… I missed so much… I thought I lost everything… even them…" I choked, the necklace slipping from my hands onto the plush carpet. "I don't know what to feel anymore."
Stella bent down, picking up the necklace. "You don't have to figure it out right now," she said softly. "Not when we're here. Give it time Jay .we'll be there everytime with you..."
David's hand rested on my shoulder. "You're safe, Jay. And you're not alone anymore. Not ever again."
I closed my eyes, letting the sobs shake me, letting the warmth of their presence wrap around me. For the first time in weeks, I could breathe — the mansion, the gifts, the three people who loved me in ways I hadn't realized I needed… it was overwhelming, but in the best way.
When I finally lifted my head, Keeper smiled gently. "Ready to see your rooms?"
I nodded, still trembling, still teary, but a small laugh escaped me. "Yes… and I want to see everything."
And as we moved deeper into the mansion, each room brighter than the last, I felt something I hadn't felt in a long time: hope. Safe, chaotic, messy, beautiful hope — the kind only they could give me...