Finding Love

CHAPTER 4

Putting the Pieces Together

Ruth cried for days after breaking it off with Caleb. She was convinced she was doing the right thing. She did not want to be the reason he did not get along with his mother. As she searched her fragile heart that ached for him, she had to move on and heal from her first love. Caleb made every attempt to reach out to her for months. However, Ruth did not change her mind. During the next three years in college, Ruth concentrated on her bachelor's degree and avoided the dating scene. Caleb eventually moved on from reaching out but still had a place in his heart for Ruth. Malissa watched her friend closely concerned about her after the breakup. She supported Ruth and admired her for being so strong through it all. She wished things had turned out differently but she understood why Ruth did not want to be at war or in a battle with Caleb's mother. The dynamics were too complicated. 

"You look pretty amazing," Malissa beamed as she placed on her graduation robe. Malissa was proud of her friend these days. She would occasionally wear make-up and get her hair done. She was happy with her latest devotion to more self-care. "You look pretty amazing too," Ruth smiled. "Let's graduate," Malissa laughed pulling her friend in a hug as they left their dorm room for a final time. Ruth was happy to see her Mom and her mom's fiance Adam Mcdonald attend her graduation. They had met on a blind date, fall in love, and were active in church and charities. Ruth was so grateful her mom finally found happiness and God. Her mother and her fiance were Christians and joyful for life.  Ruth was excited about the wedding when she returned back home to Atlanta. Ruth was also happy to meet Malissa's mom and dad too Todd and Sarah Peterson. 

During the celebration, the hugs and kisses, Ruth looked up and met Caleb's eyes fixated on her. How was it that after all this time he still caused her heart to beat rapidly? He nodded admiring her in her gown. She smiled and nodded saying," Congratulations!" At that moment he said, "Can I get a hug?"  Ruth saw his family around him excited for the graduation too. Cassandra waved at her and she waved back.

Ruth nodded. What harm could it do? She was leaving Texas pretty soon to return back to Atlanta. "Congratulations Ruth!" he said gently embracing her. Ruth felt her heart and his heartbeat in sync. She knew she would always love this boy, but they could never be together. "Take care of yourself," she said breaking their hug. "Likewise, Ruth. I pray for the best for you in all your endeavors," he continued. Ruth nodded realizing this was their first and perhaps final conversation since she walked away from the relationship. "I pray the best for you always and future successes," she spoke warmly. They briefly held each other hands and then walked away to their families. 

"So, the famous Caleb in the flesh," Olivia teased her daughter Ruth. "Yes ma'am," Ruth said hoping her mother would change the subject. "He is so handsome," Olivia said staring back at Caleb and his family. "Mom, don't stare," Ruth scolded her. "Okay, okay," Olivia held her hands up in defeat. "Do you have any regrets about ending things?" Ms. Dawkins asked sympathetically. "In the beginning, it was very overwhelming, and it really hurt. However, when I looked at the advantages and disadvantages, I know I made the right decision," Ruth admitted. "If you are happy and satisfied so, am I", Mrs. Dawkins embraced Ruth. "Baby you will find love again. I just know it. God has a plan, and he wants you to trust him with this next chapter in your life," Ms. Dawkins stated. "Thanks Mom, I know God will guide me," Ruth agreed wholeheartedly.