lvi. SUDDEN CHANGE. (pt. 3)
February 28, 2018. | Third Person POV.
Paris, France.

Sedona woke up feeling lighter, almost as if the heavy fog that had been suffocating her for days had finally started to lift. Her body still ached, and her stomach remained unsettled, but the nausea wasn't as intense as before. She blinked up at the ceiling, taking a moment to let herself adjust. The headache she'd been battling was now a dull throb, and she was no longer drenched in cold sweat. It wasn't much, but it was progress.

Pushing herself up slowly, she swung her legs over the edge of the bed, careful not to move too fast. Her stomach twisted slightly, but it wasn't nearly as unbearable as yesterday. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, then another, waiting for the wave of nausea to pass. When it did, she opened her eyes and stood up, moving gingerly toward the bathroom.

The cramps were still there, low and uncomfortable, but she'd grown used to them over the last couple of days. Her period had shown up at the worst possible time, but at least she knew it would be over soon. Three days—that was her usual, like clockwork. She was just grateful that the food poisoning was finally letting up.

She turned on the shower, letting the water heat up as she glanced at her reflection in the mirror. Her face looked pale, her eyes a little sunken, but she looked more alive than she had the last couple of days. She stepped under the warm spray, letting the water soothe her sore muscles. The tension melted away, even if just for a moment. It felt good to stand, to feel somewhat human again.

When she finished, she wrapped herself in a plush robe and shuffled back to the room. The curtains were still drawn, the dim lighting comforting. She didn't have the energy for bright lights yet. As she sat back on the bed, her stomach grumbled softly. She knew she had to eat, but just the thought of certain foods made her queasy. She needed to be careful.

A soft knock sounded at the door before it cracked open, and Monica's head popped in. "You're awake. How you feelin'?"

Sedona managed a small smile. "Better. Not great, but better."

Monica stepped inside, a tray balanced in her hands. "That's good to hear. Figured you might be hungry, so I brought some plain toast and applesauce. Doctor said to keep it light." She placed the tray on the small table by the window.

Sedona's stomach gave another weak growl at the sight of the food. "Thanks. I think I can handle that." She stood slowly and made her way over, easing into the chair.

Monica watched her carefully, concern still evident in her eyes. "You look a little better, but you're still pale. You sure you're feelin' alright?"

Sedona took a cautious bite of the toast, waiting to see if her stomach would rebel. When it didn't, she nodded. "Yeah. It's day three, so the worst is over. I just feel weak... and these cramps aren't helping."

Monica's face softened. "I'm glad there's no show today. You need to rest up. We don't need you pushin' yourself too soon."

Sedona took another bite, chewing slowly. "Yeah. If there were a concert tonight, I don't know how I'd do it."

A brief wave of sadness washed over her as she thought about the performance she missed. The empty spot in her schedule felt like a hollow echo, and guilt gnawed at her. She didn't enjoy being sick. In fact, she hated it. She hated the helplessness, the way her body had betrayed her.

Monica's phone buzzed, and she glanced at the screen. "Doc should be here soon to check on you. Maybe he'll have some good news."

Sedona perked up at that. She'd been counting down the days, waiting for the doctor to clear her to get back on stage. Performing wasn't just her job; it was her lifeline. Missing Belgium and Paris had crushed her, and she didn't want to miss any more shows.

She finished the toast and moved on to the applesauce, surprised at how soothing it was. Her stomach didn't protest, and she took that as a victory.

True to Monica's word, the doctor arrived not long after. He was a tall man with salt-and-pepper hair and a kind smile. He greeted her warmly, his eyes keen as he took in her appearance. "You're looking a lot better today, Sedona. How are you feeling?"

"Better. The nausea's not as bad, and I actually managed to eat something."

"That's great to hear." He moved closer, setting his bag on the table before pulling out his stethoscope. "Mind if I take a look?"

Sedona shook her head, letting him check her vitals. He listened to her heartbeat, checked her breathing, and took her temperature. His expression remained calm and focused, but his eyes held a hint of optimism.

When he finished, he took a step back, crossing his arms. "Your fever's gone, and your vitals are much better today. I'd say the worst of the food poisoning is behind you."

Relief washed over her, and she felt her shoulders relax. "Thank God. I was starting to think I'd never get better."

The doctor chuckled. "Food poisoning can be rough, especially when it's combined with other factors. But you're on the mend. Just take it easy for the next day or two, stick to light foods, and keep hydrated. You'll be back to normal soon."

Sedona's heart lifted at his words. "So... does that mean I can get back on stage soon?"

He gave her a knowing look. "I figured you'd ask that. I'd say give it one more day of rest, and if you're feeling stronger tomorrow, you can ease back into it. But no pushing yourself too hard, alright? You need to be at full strength before performing again."

She nodded eagerly, the thought of getting back on stage giving her the motivation she needed. "I won't overdo it. Promise."

Monica let out a breath she didn't realize she'd been holding. "Good. 'Cause I've been worried about you."

Sedona's eyes softened. "I know. I appreciate you looking out for me, Mo."

The doctor packed up his things, his smile warm. "You're in good hands. Just keep resting today, and let your body do the healing. I'll check on you tomorrow, but I think you'll be just fine."

After he left, Sedona leaned back in her chair, a sense of relief washing over her. She was getting better. Finally. She looked over at Monica, who had settled on the couch, scrolling through her phone.

"You know what I miss?" Sedona asked, a wistful smile on her lips.

"What?"

"Real food. Like... something flavorful. This plain stuff is getting old."

Monica laughed. "I bet. But we're sticking to the plan. Bland and boring until you're fully back to normal."

Sedona groaned dramatically, her shoulders sagging. "You're killing me."

"Nah, just making sure you don't end up back in that bed cryin' about your stomach."

They shared a laugh, and Sedona's heart felt a little lighter. Today was better, and tomorrow would be even better than that. She just had to be patient.

For the first time in days, she actually believed she was going to be okay.

—

Sedona spent the rest of the day taking it easy, alternating between light naps and watching mindless TV shows that didn't require too much attention. Monica stayed close, making sure she drank plenty of water and didn't push herself too hard. 

By the afternoon, she felt a little restless, her energy slowly returning. She didn't want to push it, but she was tired of lying in bed. She stood up carefully, testing her balance before deciding to stretch her legs a bit. 

Monica looked up from her phone. "You sure you should be walkin' around?" 

Sedona rolled her eyes playfully. "I'm not an invalid, Mo. Just a little wobbly." She moved slowly around the room, letting her muscles wake up. It felt good to move, to not feel like a prisoner to her own body. 

She ended up by the window, peeking through the curtains. The sun was bright, the world outside buzzing with life. It made her long for normalcy, for the thrill of the stage and the rush of performing. She'd been away from it for too long. 

Her stomach gave a light grumble, and she placed a hand over it, surprised by the sensation. She was... hungry. Actually hungry. It was the first time in days that she'd felt anything other than nausea. 

She turned to Monica. "I think I'm ready for real food. Something more than toast and applesauce." 

Monica's eyes widened in mock surprise. "Oh, you feelin' brave today, huh?" 

Sedona grinned. "I just want something that actually tastes like food. I'm starving." 

Monica looked thoughtful, tapping her chin. "Alright, but we're takin' it slow. I don't need you gettin' sick again. How about some plain chicken and rice? Something easy on your stomach." 

Sedona's face fell slightly, but she knew Monica was right. "Fine. But I better get real food tomorrow." 

Monica laughed, shaking her head. "We'll see. Let's get through today first." She stood up and grabbed her phone, dialing room service. 

As she placed the order, Sedona settled back on the couch, already daydreaming about all the foods she wanted to eat once she was fully recovered. Spicy dishes, cheesy pastas, desserts... it all sounded heavenly. 

A soft knock at the door interrupted her thoughts, and Monica went to answer it. A hotel staff member wheeled in a cart with Sedona's meal—plain grilled chicken with white rice and a side of steamed vegetables. It looked painfully bland, but her stomach growled at the sight of it. 

Monica placed the plate on the small table in front of her. "Take it slow. We don't need you gettin' sick again." 

Sedona nodded obediently, cutting a small piece of chicken and popping it into her mouth. The flavor was minimal, but it was real food, and she savored it. Her stomach accepted it without protest, and she felt a small wave of relief. She took another bite, then another, careful not to rush. 

Halfway through the meal, she paused, taking a sip of water before leaning back with a content sigh. "I forgot how good it feels to actually eat." 

Monica smiled, relief evident on her face. "I'm glad you're finally feelin' better. You had me worried there for a minute." 

Sedona's expression softened. "I know. I'm sorry for scaring you." 

Monica waved her off. "You didn't scare me. Just... concerned, that's all. You were lookin' real bad the other day. And it was my fault."

Sedona shuddered, remembering how weak and helpless she'd felt. "Yeah, I don't wanna go through that again. I don't wish that on anybody."

"And it's okay. Truly—just don't ever give me no damn oyster. Let alone have it near me."

They fell into a comfortable silence, the soft hum of the TV filling the room. Sedona finished her meal slowly, grateful that her stomach was cooperating. It felt like a small victory. 

Later in the evening, she changed into a pair of cozy pajamas and curled up on the couch, feeling pleasantly full and content. Monica was sitting on the other end, scrolling through social media. 

Sedona glanced over, curiosity sparking. "Anything interesting happening online?" 

Monica's eyes widened slightly before she schooled her expression, clearly trying to play it cool. "Nah, just the usual nonsense." 

Sedona narrowed her eyes, a sly smile curving her lips. "Liar. I know that look. What's goin' on?" 

Monica hesitated for a moment before sighing. "Your fans... they're worried about you. They've been blowin' up your socials, askin' where you are and if you're okay." 

Sedona's heart clenched. She hated being away from them, hated not being able to perform. "Damn. I hate leaving them hangin' like that." 

Monica nodded. "I've been updating them, tellin' them you're just under the weather and needin' rest. But, you know how they are—they're worried." 

Sedona thought for a moment, then sat up straighter. "I should post something. Just to let them know I'm alright. I don't want them stressin' over me." 

The two sat in comfortable silence. The hotel room, usually filled with the sounds of rehearsals or Sedona's music playing on a loop, was unusually quiet.

"I know you wanted to post something for the fans," Monica said carefully. "You still can, if you're up for it."

Sedona hesitated. "I don't want them to worry. Maybe just a quick post."

Monica handed her phone over, already opened to her social media app. Sedona took a quick photo—nothing fancy, just her wrapped in blankets with a soft smile—and typed out a message:

"Thank you all for the love. Feeling much better and can't wait to see y'all soon. 💕"

She hit post and set the phone down, letting her head rest back against the pillow.

"You know what?" Sedona murmured, a hint of light returning to her eyes. "Today's the perfect day for it."

Monica looked at her curiously. "For what?"

"The 'Push 2 Start' video," Sedona said. "I know we were planning a bigger premiere, but... why not now? The fans have been waiting long enough."

Monica's face brightened. "You sure? I can get the team on it ASAP."

Sedona nodded. "Yeah. I might not be able to celebrate the way I wanted, but at least the video will finally be out. It'll be like a gift to them."

With a few quick messages, Monica coordinated the release. Moments later, Sedona's social media was flooded with notifications—the official drop of the "Push 2 Start" music video.

Sedona watched the premiere from her bed, her laptop propped up on a pillow. The vibrant visuals and slick choreography filled the screen, and for a moment, she felt like herself again—an artist, a performer, a woman with something to share with the world.

Her smile was genuine, but beneath it lay a quiet longing. She wished she could be out celebrating with her team, with Kendrick, with everyone who had poured their energy into this project. Still, knowing the fans finally had it in their hands was enough. It had to be.

As the video wrapped up, Sedona leaned back, her eyes heavy but her spirit lighter. "Not the day I planned," She whispered, "but still a good day."

Monica squeezed her hand. "And there are more good days to come."

Sedona nodded, allowing herself to believe it. She'd be back on stage soon, stronger and ready to reclaim her spotlight. But for now, rest was enough.

Monica reached for the remote, turning the volume up on the TV. "Alright, miss superstar. Time for you to rest up. Doc said no pushin' yourself, remember?" 

Sedona laughed softly, letting her eyes drift shut. "Yeah, yeah. I hear you." 

As she dozed off on the couch, she felt the weight of the past few days slowly slipping away. She was healing, one step at a time. And soon, she'd be back on stage where she belonged.

—

Sedona's eyes fluttered open, the dim light in the room casting soft shadows across the walls. She blinked, adjusting to her surroundings, realizing she was sprawled on the couch. Her body felt lighter, less achy, and her head wasn't spinning as much. It was the most rested she'd felt in days. 

Across from her, Monica was curled up in an armchair, her laptop balanced precariously on her lap. Her head lolled to the side, mouth slightly open, her steady breathing the only sound in the room. Sedona smiled softly, noting the open email on the screen. Monica must've been checking in with the label again. Sedona knew she had informed them of her illness, and the endless back-and-forth was likely exhausting. She made a mental note to thank Monica once she woke up. 

Her stomach gave a soft rumble, a sign that her appetite was slowly returning. The bowl of soup Monica had left on the coffee table was still warm, steam curling up in gentle wisps. Sedona sat up, stretching carefully before reaching for the bowl. The rich aroma of chicken broth was comforting, and she took a cautious sip, the warmth soothing her throat. 

Each spoonful made her feel a little more like herself, her energy inching back bit by bit. Her thoughts drifted as she ate, and before she knew it, her mind was on Kendrick. It was almost instinctive at this point, how easily he occupied her thoughts. Tomorrow would mark a month since they'd made it official, and she could hardly believe how quickly the time had flown by. 

A month. Twenty-eight days. And yet, she missed him more than she was willing to admit. The texts and phone calls just weren't cutting it anymore. They were great for keeping the connection alive, but they were nothing compared to his presence, his touch, his smile. She missed his voice—no, not just his voice. She missed the way he said her name, the way he'd call her just to hear about her day. She missed everything. Yeah, she was in too deep.

Setting the empty bowl back on the table, Sedona grabbed her phone. Her thumb hovered over his name in her call log, hesitating for a moment. He was always busy, his schedule packed to the brim. And he was notorious for not answering his phone—half the time, she was convinced he didn't even know where it was. 

Still, the need to hear his voice outweighed the doubts. She tapped his name, bringing the phone to her ear as it began to ring. She braced herself for the call to go to voicemail, knowing she might have to settle for a text instead. 

But to her surprise, it only rang once before she heard his deep, familiar voice. "Hey, baby." 

Sedona's heart did a little flip, a smile spreading across her face before she could stop it. "You actually answered?" 

Kendrick chuckled, the sound warm and smooth. "Don't act so surprised. I always answer for you." 

She rolled her eyes, leaning back against the couch. "Yeah, okay. Sure you do." 

"I do," He insisted, amusement lacing his tone. "So, what's up? You good?" 

"Better than I was yesterday. Still feel a little weak, but I'm eating again." 

"That's good to hear. I was starting to get worried. You know you had me ready to hop on a plane and come out there, right?" 

Sedona's chest tightened at the thought. "I know. But I didn't want you to drop everything. I'm okay now... just... I miss you." 

There was a pause on his end, the silence heavy and warm. When he spoke again, his voice was softer. "I miss you too."

Her heart fluttered, and she chewed on her bottom lip. "It's been almost a month, you know." 

"Tomorrow makes it a month," He corrected, his voice dropping an octave. "And it's been way too long since I last saw you." 

"It's only been, like, five-ish days." Sedona shrugged. "You'll see me... eventually."

Another pause, longer this time. Sedona's fingers played with the edge of the blanket draped over her lap. She could hear his breathing on the other end, steady and rhythmic. It was crazy how even the sound of that brought her comfort.

"What time is it there?" She asked, realizing she hadn't even checked the clock. 

"Almost eleven. Why? You tryna check my schedule or somethin'?" 

Sedona laughed, the sound light and airy. "Boy, please. I was just curious." 

Kendrick laughed with her, the sound melting her even more. "I know you, D. You like to keep tabs on me." 

"Whatever. Don't flatter yourself." 

He hummed, his voice dropping to that teasing tone that always made her stomach flip. "I ain't gotta flatter myself when I got you missin' me this bad." 

Sedona's face heated up, and she was grateful Monica was still asleep. "Shut up, Kendrick." 

He laughed again, and she swore she could see his smile through the phone. "You're cute when you're embarrassed." 

She rolled her eyes, sinking deeper into the couch. "I hate you." 

"Nah, you love me." 

Her heart skipped a beat, and she quickly covered it up with a scoff. "Whatever. Don't get too cocky." 

"Too late." 

They fell into a comfortable silence, both just listening to each other's breathing. It was strange how natural this felt—how easily he fit into her life, even through the distance. It had only been a month, but it already felt like she'd known him forever.

Kendrick's voice broke the quiet. "Any updates with the doctor?"

"Good stuff. I'm better, and hopefully within a day or two I'll be able to get back on the road. Just gotta take it easy." 

"Word? That's great honestly."

Sedona smiled softly, her eyes drifting to the window. "Yup which means you might finally see me... if you're lucky." 

"Oh, I'm lucky, alright. I got you, don't I?" 

Her heart did another somersault, and she felt the blush creep back onto her cheeks. She opened her mouth to respond, but a soft snore from Monica made her pause. She glanced over, stifling a laugh. "Monica fell asleep on her laptop. She's been worried sick this whole time." 

Kendrick chuckled. "Yeah, sounds like her. Make sure you thank her when she wakes up." 

"I will," She promised. "I'd probably be worse off if she wasn't here." 

They talked a little while longer, about her health, his music, the little things they missed about each other. Eventually, her eyelids grew heavy, the fatigue setting back in. She fought to stay awake, to keep listening to his voice, but it was no use. 

"You're fallin' asleep on me, huh?" He teased softly. 

Sedona's eyes were already closed, her voice a lazy mumble. "Maybe..." 

Kendrick's tone softened, his voice a gentle murmur. "Get some rest, baby. I'll talk to you tomorrow." 

"Promise?" 

"Promise. Sweet dreams, D." 

A sleepy smile played on her lips. "Goodnight, Kendrick." 

The call ended, and Sedona drifted off, her heart a little fuller, her body a little lighter. No matter the distance, no matter how many miles separated them, he always found a way to make her feel close to him.

—

©kashdemi
Volume I- Redamancy.
Chapter Fifty-six.
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Spam dumping chapters until we reach the long awaited chapter. ;)

Stay tuned for the next chapter, & til next time!
-shea