Between Four of Us

Chapter 85

The morning of Camille’s discharge was filled with a quiet joy and relief. After days of rest and constant care, the doctors finally gave her the all-clear, reassuring her and the guys that she and the baby were stable enough to go home. Camille’s energy was still low, but being surrounded by Noah, Leo, and Matthew made her feel strong enough to face whatever lay ahead. She couldn’t wait to leave the sterile walls of the hospital and return to the warmth and comfort of home.

Leo was the first to arrive that morning, bringing with him a small bouquet of flowers and a warm smile. “Finally, some color in this place,” he said, handing her the flowers and making her laugh.

Camille smiled, her face lighting up as she breathed in the delicate scent. “Thank you, Leo. These are beautiful.”

“No problem,” he replied, moving to help her gather her things. “But I can’t take all the credit. Matthew suggested I bring them, and Noah was the one who made me go back and get the vase. Team effort, as always.”

Noah and Matthew entered the room moments later, each of them carrying Camille’s bag and making sure everything was ready for her check-out. Noah was calm and focused, but she could see the relief in his eyes. Matthew, ever attentive, checked her discharge paperwork to make sure everything was in order.

“Ready to head home?” Noah asked, gently helping her stand as he offered his arm for support.

“More than ready,” she replied, squeezing his arm as a wave of gratitude washed over her. She felt so blessed to have them by her side, each of them devoted to her well-being.

The four of them made their way out of the hospital, each step taking Camille closer to the comfort of home. She felt her strength returning, bit by bit, and with every reassuring smile from the guys, she felt the shadows of her nightmares fading. This was real—she was surrounded by love and support, and she was going to be okay.

As they reached the car, Matthew held the door open, giving her a reassuring smile. “Nice and easy, Camille. Take your time.”

Camille smiled, grateful for his patience. “Thank you. I’m just happy to finally be getting some fresh air.”

Leo climbed into the front passenger seat, already fidgeting with the music controls. “We’ll get you home in no time, Camille. And if you need anything, just say the word. Doctor’s orders or not, you’re going to get a full royal treatment.”

Noah settled into the driver’s seat, adjusting his mirror with a grin. “I’ll try to keep the speed at a royal pace, too.”

Camille laughed, leaning back and allowing herself to relax, comforted by their banter. They had barely pulled out of the hospital parking lot when Leo glanced back at her, a playful gleam in his eyes. “What’s the first thing you want to do when you get home? Hot shower? Netflix marathon? Maybe one of Matthew’s famous grilled cheese sandwiches?”

Camille chuckled, considering the options. “A hot shower sounds amazing. But I’ll take that grilled cheese, too. And maybe some peace and quiet.” She gave a gentle smile, appreciating the normalcy of their conversation after everything she’d been through.

Matthew turned around in his seat, nodding thoughtfully. “Coming right up. I’ll even add extra cheese. Doctor-approved therapy food.”

They all laughed, the sound filling the car with a lightness that Camille hadn’t felt in days. As they chatted, the worries and nightmares felt like distant memories, replaced by the comfort of familiar voices and friendly banter. She glanced out the window, watching the city pass by as they headed toward home.

But just as they reached the intersection, Camille’s laughter was cut short by a sudden, gut-wrenching jolt. Out of nowhere, there was a blinding flash of headlights, and everything seemed to slow down in an instant. She felt the car lurch, heard the deafening sound of metal colliding, and her heart leapt into her throat.

“BAMMM—CRASHHH!”