AT THE SAME TIME
ISABELLA'S POINT OF VIEW:
The sunlight hit my face as we stepped out of the hospital, its warmth sinking into my skin. Everything felt sharper, more vivid. The hum of traffic, the distant chatter of people, the rustle of leaves. It was surreal. It was real. Vanessa squeezed my hand, her smile so wide it practically glowed.
"We did it, Isa. We're really out."Vanessa said.
I laughed, shaking my head.
"I can't believe it. I thought… I thought we'd never leave."I sad.
Michael was right beside me, his arm securely around my waist as if he was scared I'd disappear if he let go. His thumb rubbed gentle circles on my side, grounding me.
"Believe it, Sunshine. We're here."Michael said.
Behind us, the others filtered out, blinking into the sunlight like they'd never seen it before. Evelyn
stretched her arms above her head, grinning.
"God, I missed the real sun."Evelyn said.
"Missed real food too." Soren chimed in, rubbing his stomach.
