Uncovered Secret: Taylor Swift Has A Daughter - Fanfiction

Chapter 36: Bridget's 14th Birthday

Bridget's 14th birthday was a bittersweet affair. As much as I wanted to fill it with joy and celebration, I couldn't ignore the growing distance between her and Joe. But with Travis now a part of our lives, I was determined to ensure she had a memorable day.

The party was set in our backyard, transformed into a teenage dreamland. Balloons in her favorite colors floated in the air, and a DJ played upbeat tunes. I made sure to include all of Bridget's favorite foods and a cake that was as delicious as it was Instagram-worthy.

Travis was incredible throughout the day. He had a way of making everyone feel comfortable, ensuring that Bridget was the center of attention. He organized games, joked with her friends, and even set up a mini football clinic, which was a huge hit.

"Hey Bee, ready to show your friends how to throw a perfect spiral?" Travis called out, tossing a football her way.

Bridget caught it with a laugh. "Only if you promise not to show off too much. Remember, you're supposed to let the birthday girl win."

Travis raised his hands in mock surrender. "I wouldn't dream of stealing your thunder. But let's make it interesting – if you can get a touchdown, I'll do the 'Shake It Off' dance right here."

The challenge was met with cheers from her friends, and Bridget's competitive spirit shone through. She managed the touchdown, and true to his word, Travis danced to 'Shake It Off', much to everyone's amusement.

As the evening wound down, I caught Bridget looking thoughtful. I approached her, my heart aching a bit, knowing she was probably thinking about her dad.

"Having a good time?" I asked, wrapping an arm around her.

She leaned into me, smiling softly. "Yeah, it's been amazing. I just wish Dad could see this, you know?"

I nodded, understanding the complexity of her feelings. "I know, Bee. But remember, we're here for you, always. And you have so many people who love you, including Travis."

She glanced at Travis, who was now helping her friends with the piñata. "Yeah, he's pretty cool, isn't he?"

"He is," I agreed, watching the joy on her face. "Happy Birthday, my beautiful girl. Fourteen looks good on you."

She beamed, her eyes lighting up. "Thanks, mom. This is the best birthday ever."

The evening had settled into a gentle rhythm, the laughter and chatter from Bridget's friends creating a backdrop of youthful energy. That's when I noticed Bee had slipped away, her phone pressed to her ear. I didn't want to intrude, but concern drew me closer, just out of sight.

I couldn't hear Joe's voice, but Bee's words were clear and tinged with a strength that went beyond her years. "Dad, I just wish you were here... You're missing out on so much," she said, her voice steady but laced with emotion. "It's not just about being a dad when it's convenient or when I'm with you. I'm your daughter, and I deserve your love and support, always."

Her words resonated with me, a mixture of pride and sadness swirling in my heart. I had always known Bee had inherited my resilience, but hearing her articulate her feelings with such clarity was both heart-wrenching and empowering.

"I'll always love you, I'll always be there when you need me. I just wish you felt the same about me."

The conversation seemed to end abruptly, and I watched as Bee lowered her phone, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. She stood there for a moment, gathering herself, and when she turned and saw me, her expression shifted to one of vulnerability.

Without a word, I opened my arms, and she walked into my embrace, her head resting against my shoulder. I could feel the tremor of her emotions as she tried to hold back her tears.

"You were amazing, Bee," I whispered, my own voice thick with emotion. "You spoke your truth with such grace and courage."

She sniffled, pulling back slightly to look at me. "I just want him to understand, mom. To really see how his actions, or lack thereof, affect me."

"I know, sweetheart," I said, brushing a stray tear from her cheek. "And you did the right thing by expressing how you feel. It's not always easy, but it's important. He should know that you're a person with feelings too, it's not just my word against his. It's your word too."

Bee nodded, a small smile breaking through. "Thanks, mom. I don't know what I'd do without you."

I hugged her tighter, feeling an overwhelming sense of love and protectiveness. "You'll never have to find out. I'm here for you, always."

As Travis approached, his face softened at the sight of our embrace. "Hey, there are two people missing from the party," he said with a gentle smile. "And I think you both should see your mom's Michael Jackson impression. It's pretty epic."

Bridget, wiping away the last of her tears, couldn't help but laugh. "I wouldn't miss that for the world!" she exclaimed. 

In a spontaneous burst of affection, she darted towards Travis and wrapped him in a hug. "I love you," she said earnestly, her words simple yet profound.

Then, like a whirlwind, she was off again, sprinting back to the heart of her party, her laughter trailing behind her like a melody.

Travis and I lingered for a moment, both of us visibly moved by Bridget's declaration. It was a significant moment, a milestone in the tapestry of our evolving family life. 

"Did you hear that?" I whispered, my voice a mix of awe and emotion.

Travis nodded, his eyes bright. "I did," he said, his voice filled with warmth. "She's an amazing kid, Taylor."

I leaned into him, my heart full. "She really is," I agreed. "And she's right. We shouldn't miss the party, especially your future mother-in-law's dance moves."

Hand in hand, we walked back towards the laughter and music, the joy of the moment enveloping us. It was a night of celebration, of love, and of family — a family that was growing and strengthening in ways I had never imagined.