Jay-Jay's POV
The next morning dawned brighter, sunlight spilling through the flat's windows like it knew we needed it. Keifer was already up, making coffee when I shuffled into the kitchen, his hair messy and bracelet catching the light.
"Sleep okay?" he asked, sliding a mug my way.
"Better," I said, wrapping my hands around the warmth. "No nightmares."
He smiled, leaning against the counter. "Good. Section E group chat's blowing up — they want a low-key hang tonight. No rides. Just food and movies. C-in's calling from back home, demanding video updates."
"Perfect."
Uni waited, but lighter today. Mica linked arms in the hall, whispering updates on Robin (avoiding eye contact in class). Keifer met me between lectures, hand finding mine automatic.
Evening brought the crew to our flat — pizza towers, blankets everywhere, Felix commandeering the remote. Rakki claimed my lap, Grace passed snacks, Denzel filmed "London survival tips." C-in's face popped up on the TV screen via video call, yelling from the Philippines: "SEND PIZZA PICS OR I RIOT!"
"Rule one," Calix announced, "no horror houses for Jay."
Cheers erupted. Laughter healed what scares couldn't touch. C-in's dramatic screams from the screen made it even better.
Keifer pulled me onto the balcony later, city lights twinkling below. Rain from yesterday gone, stars peeking through clouds.
"London suits you," he murmured, arms around my waist from behind.
"Us," I corrected, leaning back.
He kissed my neck soft. "Yeah. Us."
From inside, Felix yelled, "GET A ROOM!" C-in echoed on the call: "ULUPONG POWER COUPLE!"
We laughed, going back to chaos — family, not blood. Even with C-in an ocean away.
Trauma faded.
Life glowed.
Ours.