Atypical: The Long Goodbye

The Moment We've Been Waiting for

Sam and Paige stood in the middle of their newly furnished apartment, admiring the final touches they had added. The once-empty space now felt warm, inviting, and most importantly, ready for the next chapter of their lives together.

Paige placed the last decorative item on a shelf, stepping back to take it all in. "I can't believe we're finally done, Sam. Our little nest is complete."

Sam wrapped an arm around Paige, a contented smile on their face. "Yeah, it's been a journey, but we did it. Our home is ready for our daughter."

The anticipation of their daughter's arrival made the apartment feel even cozier. They had spent weeks carefully selecting furniture, painting walls, and creating a nursery filled with love and care. Now, all they had left to do was wait for their little one to make her grand entrance into the world.

As the days passed, Sam's graduation day approached. He had worked tirelessly to complete his college degree while juggling the preparations for the new addition to his family. The thought of finally reaching this milestone filled Sam with a mix of excitement and accomplishment.

Sam stood in front of the mirror, adjusting his cap and gown, excitement and nerves intertwining. As he straightened his cap, Casey walked into the room, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Casey couldn't resist a playful jab. "Well, well, look at you, Mr. Graduate. Finally joining the real world, huh?"

Sam rolled his eyes, a smile tugging at their lips. "Careful with the sarcasm. It's a big day for me, you know."

Casey chuckled, her teasing tone underlying a genuine pride for her brother. "Yeah, yeah, I'm just messing with you. I'm proud of you, Sam. You've worked hard for this."

Sam's heart warmed at Casey's words, appreciating the support hidden behind the banter. "Thanks, Casey. It means a lot coming from you, I suppose."

Soon, Sam and Casey joined the rest of the family at the graduation ceremony venue. Sam's excitement grew as they spotted Casey, Paige, Izzie, Zahid, Abby, and his father, all beaming with anticipation. However, as Sam scanned the crowd, he realized his mother was notably absent.

Concern flickered across Sam's face, and he turned to his father. "Where's Mom? Is she okay?"

Doug's expression softened, a mix of sympathy and regret. "I'm really sorry, bud. She really wanted to come, but she's was feeling really sick and couldn't get out of bed."

Sam's heart sank, a wave of disappointment crashing over him. He understood his mother's health struggles, but it didn't make it any easier to accept her absence on such an important day.

Taking a deep breath, Sam nodded, trying to push past the disappointment. "It's okay, I understand. Her health comes first."

The ceremony began, and the excitement in the air was palpable. Sam listened attentively to the speeches, his mind drifting between the bittersweetness of the moment and the longing for his mother's presence.

Finally, the time came for the graduates to walk across the stage. As Sam's name was called, he stepped forward, his steps filled with a mix of pride and longing. He accepted their diploma, a symbol of their hard work and dedication.

Paige's eyes sparkled as she watched Sam walk across the stage to receive his diploma. The applause filled the auditorium, echoing their pride and joy.

As the ceremony concluded, Sam made his way back to their family, feeling a bittersweet blend of accomplishment and sadness. Paige enveloped him in a warm embrace, whispering words of pride and comfort.

Casey smirked, her eyes twinkling mischievously. "Well, well, look who finally made it. The illustrious graduate of the day."

Sam rolled his eyes, a playful smile tugging at his lips. "Try not to be too impressed by my amazing achievement, Casey."