Chapter 5: The Plan

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As Tree and I settled into the quiet haven of the study, the world outside seemed to hold its breath, awaiting our next move. The warm glow of the lamp cast a soft light on the worn pages of the books that lined the shelves, their tales a silent witness to the unfolding story of our lives.

Meanwhile, in the heart of the house, Selena and Blake were weaving a spell of laughter and joy around Bee, who was reveling in their attention. It was a scene that played out every time they were together - Bee, with her innocent charm, had them enchanted. She may have entered her difficult teenage phase, but she was still my sweet girl underneath.

Back in the study, Tree broke the silence that hung between us, her words cutting through the still air, "Okay, so we have a few options." Her eyes met mine, carrying the weight of the decisions that lay ahead.

"One is, we go public with it. You take control of the narrative. Address your fans online and ask for privacy," she continued, her tone steady, outlining the path that lay ahead.

I quirked an eyebrow, "That's it?"

Tree shook her head gently, her words painting the picture of the reality that awaited us, "There's one thing... You'll need to introduce Bridget to the world. Without a proper introduction, the curiosity will only grow, their eyes always seeking a glimpse. It's a harsh truth, but remember the frenzy when the Kardashians first introduced their kids? The curiosity waned over time as it became the norm. If they had chosen privacy, the scrutiny would only have intensified."

I sighed, the image of Michael Jackson's veiled children flashed through my mind, "Like MJ's kids, right?"

Tree nodded in agreement, her eyes softening with understanding.

"So, what's the plan?" I asked, although a part of me already knew where this conversation was headed.

Tree leaned forward, her words carefully chosen, "We go public. You steer the narrative. But we bring Bee into it, gently. Perhaps a Q&A video where you ask her some questions, letting the world see the bond you share. You can still request for privacy, but this gesture may satisfy their curiosity."

I absorbed her words, feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders. Yet, a glimmer of hope remained.

The question hung in the air between us, its implications twining through the calm of the room, "Do I need Joe's approval?" I sighed, a cloak of inevitability shrouding my words. I knew Joe wouldn't easily consent.

With a comforting touch, Tree reached for my hand, her warmth seeping through the cold dread that gnawed at my heart. "Let me handle Joe," she said softly, "But to answer your question, no, you don't need his approval."

I closed my eyes for a fleeting moment, seeking solace amidst the whirlpool of emotions that threatened to engulf me. "I don't think he'll appreciate that answer," I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper.

Tree's voice was firm yet gentle as she retorted, "It's not about what he likes, Taylor. It's about what we must do to ensure Bridget remains safe."

Keeping Bridget safe – those words had formed the essence of my every waking moment for the past twelve years. Even amidst the euphoria of performing on stage, my gaze would often wander, seeking her face amidst the sea of adoring fans. She'd be there, nestled within the cocoon of the VIP section alongside my mom, a wig concealing her identity as she reveled in the music, her eyes sparkling with the magic of the moment. We had concocted a simple tale for any curious fan, Bridget was introduced as my third cousin, explaining away the resemblance. Now, the thought of fans poring over past footage, recognizing her, sent a ripple of apprehension through me.

The reality of the situation nudged at me once more as I whispered, "What about her school?" The realization that she'd miss her classes if we didn't return sent a pang of anxiety through me.

Tree, ever the beacon of solutions, handed me a bundle of paperwork, "I'd suggest homeschooling for Bee until the waters calm. Chiltern offers that option."

I glanced at the documents, though my mind barely registered the words. They were a blur against the turmoil that brewed within. "How do you always think of everything?" I marveled, the semblance of control she offered was a balm to the chaos that threatened to overwhelm us.

With a soft chuckle, Tree replied, "It's my job to keep you two safe, Taylor."

I couldn't help but smile, the sentiment echoing through the room, grounding us amidst the uncertainty that loomed. I reached out for a hug, her embrace a fortress of reassurance. "And you always do," I whispered, the words a soft tribute to the unyielding support that stood beside us as we prepared to face the world that awaited, its arms wide open, its eyes hungry for the tale of Taylor and Bridget Swift.

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