Fina sat on her bed, wrapped in her favorite blanket, staring at her phone. She hated feeling like this—like a storm was brewing inside her, too loud to silence. The encounter with Sophia had shaken her more than she cared to admit, and even though her mom's words had helped, the idea of returning to school felt overwhelming.

She opened the Fab Four group chat and typed out a message, her fingers trembling slightly as she debated whether to send it.

Fab Four

Hey guys... I just wanted to let you know

I'm not coming back to

school for a bit. Maybe a week or so.

My Mia💕: What?! Are you okay??

Ethan🤪: Wait, what happened? Is this about Sophia?

Aiden❤️: Fina... talk to me. Are you alright?

Fina: I'm okay. I just need some time to clear my head. That's all.



My Mia💕: Do you want us to come over? We can hang out at your place if you don't want to go to school.

Ethan🤪: Yeah, we'll bring snacks and movies or whatever you want.

Aiden❤️: I'll come by. Just say the word.

Fina's heart ached at their kindness, but the thought of facing them, especially Aiden, made her chest tighten.

Fab Four

Thanks, guys, but I think I just need to be alone for a

little while. I'll let you know when I'm ready to see you.

There was a pause before the replies came through.

My Mia💕: Okay, but we're here for you. Anytime.

Ethan🤪: Yeah, don't forget that.

Aiden❤️: Take all the time you need. I'm not going anywhere.

Fina smiled faintly at his message, her cheeks warming. She turned her phone off and set it aside, curling up under her blanket.

The next morning, Fina stayed in bed long after the sun had risen. Her mom had called the school to let them know she'd be out for the week, and her dad had taken it upon himself to keep her company, though in his own subtle way.

"Do you want breakfast, principessa?" Alessandro asked from the doorway, his voice gentle.

Fina shook her head. "Not hungry, Papa."

He frowned but didn't push. "Alright. But let me know if you change your mind."

As the days passed, Fina settled into a routine of sorts—waking up late, lounging around the house, and occasionally talking with her mom. She avoided her phone as much as possible, though the Fab Four's messages and check-ins came through like clockwork.

On the third day, as Fina was lying on the couch staring at the ceiling, Isabella sat down beside her.

"Sweetheart," she said softly, brushing a strand of hair out of Fina's face. "I know you're trying to process everything, but isolating yourself won't make it easier."

Fina glanced at her, her eyes tired. "I just... I don't know how to face them. Or Aiden. What if he realizes I'm not worth all this trouble?"

Isabella's expression hardened. "You listen to me, Serafina. That boy adores you. Anyone with eyes can see it. Don't let your insecurities push away the people who care about you."

Fina's throat tightened, and she nodded slowly. "I'll try, Mom."

"Good," Isabella said, leaning down to kiss her forehead. "Take your time, but don't lose yourself in the process."

That evening, Fina finally opened the group chat again.

Fab Four

Hey. Thanks for checking on me these

past few days. I appreciate you guys.

My Mia💕: Of course! How are you feeling?

Ethan🤪: Are we finally gonna see you tomorrow?

Aiden❤️: You don't have to come back until you're ready, but I miss you.

Her heart skipped at his message, and she bit her lip before typing back.

Fab Four

Maybe soon. I'm still figuring things out. But I miss you guys too.

As she sent the message, Fina felt a flicker of hope. Maybe things weren't as bleak as they seemed. She wasn't ready to face the world just yet, but with her friends and family supporting her, she knew she wouldn't have to face it alone.