Caught Up ~ Lewis Hamilton

Chapter 65

2 weeks later (Friday, September 20, 2024)

* Lewis POV *

Today was a special day for Lauren and me because it was our first safe house visit. A safe house visit is a private, undisclosed location where contestants can meet without public attention after the show finishes filming. For us, this meant meeting every few weeks at an Airbnb where we could spend time together and enjoy each other's company. It was also Lauren's 31st birthday, which made it even more special. I got to our Airbnb early to get it ready for her birthday. With help from Lauren's mom, I decorated with balloons, including a big "31" balloon. While I waited for my assistant, Michelle, to come back with Lauren's favorite foods, I checked the cake I had put in the fridge.
Over the past few weeks, I had become close to Lauren's mom, Layla, through our phone calls. We exchanged numbers because we were both excited about the engagement. My mom was eager to get to know Lauren too, and now they've gotten extremely close. Layla even shared some of Lauren's favorite Jamaican recipes with her. With just an hour left before Lauren was supposed to arrive, I focused on getting everything just right. Michelle was in charge of picking up all of Lauren's favorite Jamaican meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Since our weekend getaway was only three days long, I planned fun indoor activities, like card games, TV shows, and movies we both enjoy. After about 30 minutes of decorating, I finished just as Michelle came back with the food. I put the cake on the counter, happy with how it all turned out, and waited for Lauren to arrive. Everything was ready for what I knew would be a great celebration.

Lewis: "I can't thank you enough, Michelle, for doing this."

Michelle: " It was no problem at all. Thankfully, they had everything you requested."

(She said with a warm smile as she handed me the bags filled with tasty Jamaican dishes. Grateful, I took the bags, feeling pleased that Michelle's trip was a success. As I placed each tray of food on the table, I sighed with contentment, glad that everything had come together so smoothly.)

Lewis: " How does it look?"

Michelle: " Everything looks amazing. You did a great job."

Lewis: " Thanks. I'm going to get dressed, so I'll text you tomorrow about the things we'll need for the rest of the weekend."

Michelle: " No problem. See you tomorrow. Have fun."

Lewis: " Thank you so much, Michelle."

(I nodded and excused myself, heading upstairs to get ready. After a refreshing shower, I chose an outfit that was both comfy and stylish, so I'd feel relaxed and look good for our day together.)

* Lauren POV *

After grabbing my suitcase, I headed to the car waiting for me. I didn't even care that it was my birthday – I just wanted to see my man. The thought of seeing Lewis after three weeks apart, especially on my birthday, made me so excited. This was our first time celebrating my birthday together, which made it even more special. On the way to the Airbnb, I spent some time replying to birthday messages from family and friends, feeling thankful for all the love. I also went on Instagram to share my excitement with my followers before I got busy spending time with Lewis. The sweet comments made me smile as I liked and replied to my friends. Feeling good, I decided to make my Instagram public again and posted a picture my best friend took earlier that day before I left for the airport, setting the tone for what was sure to be an unforgettable birthday.