Reunion and Resolve
Part 28
As they stepped out of the police station, Jason, Silky, and Adapt shared a somber look, the weight of the day's events still fresh on their minds. The hospital checkup and filing of the police report had been a necessary but grueling process. Now, they were headed back to the Faze house, where the rest of the members were waiting anxiously for their arrival. The drive was quiet, each lost in their own thoughts. Jason's eyes gazed out the window, his mind replaying the events of the past few days. Silky and Adapt exchanged occasional glances, their faces etched with concern and anger. As they pulled up to the Faze house, Jason's stomach twisted with a mix of emotions. He hadn't been back since...since it had all started. The familiar sight of the house brought a sense of comfort, but also a reminder of what he had endured. The front door swung open, and the other members spilled out, their faces filled with worry and relief. "Jason!" they exclaimed in unison, rushing towards him. The group surrounded Jason, their eyes scanning his battered appearance. The usually smiling boy looked numb, his eyes sunken, and his skin marred with hickeys and bites. The room fell silent, the only sound the collective intake of breath. Rage's face darkened, his jaw clenched in anger. "What did that monster do to you?" he growled. Max's eyes dropped, guilt written across his face. He had been the one to let Jason leave for the store that day, and now he couldn't shake the feeling that he was responsible for what had happened. Silky and Adapt filled the others in on the events of the past few days, leaving out no details. The group listened in stunned silence, their anger and frustration building. As the initial shock began to wear off, Jason excused himself, his voice barely above a whisper. "I need to shower." The others nodded, giving him space. Jason made his way to the bathroom, the warm water a welcome respite from the emotional turmoil. As he showered, he began to process his emotions, and a realization hit him – he didn't want to be left alone again. The fear of being vulnerable and alone was still too raw. When Jason emerged from the bathroom, dressed and composed, he gathered the group around him. "Guys, I need to talk to you about something," he said, his voice firm. The others looked at him, their faces attentive. "What's up?" Silky asked. Jason took a deep breath. "I don't want to be left alone at night. Not after what happened. I was thinking...maybe one of us could sleep in my room with me? Just to keep me company and make sure I'm safe?" The group exchanged glances, and without hesitation, they nodded in agreement. "We'll take turns," Ron said. "Every night, one of us will be with you." Lacy spoke up, his voice firm. "We'll make sure you're never alone again, Jason. You're one of us, and we take care of our own." As the group nodded in unison, Jason felt a sense of relief wash over him. He knew he wasn't alone, and with his friends by his side, he could face whatever came next.