Caught Up ~ Lewis Hamilton

Chapter 71

The next day (Friday, December 27, 2024)

* Omniscient POV *

The cozy Airbnb bedroom is gently lit by the afternoon sun coming through the partly closed curtains, casting warm patterns on the walls. Lewis and Lauren are cuddled up in the middle of the big bed, wrapped in a thick, warm blanket. Lauren is propped up on soft pillows with a bowl of snacks in her lap, casually picking at them as they chat. The atmosphere is calm and intimate, with only faint noises from outside, making it the perfect setting for a relaxed afternoon together.

Lewis: " This bed is so comfy. I can't believe it's already noon."

Lauren: "We needed that nap after breakfast. Christmas was exhausting, but in the best way."

Lewis: " Spending Christmas with the family always leaves me feeling so fulfilled. It's just nice to be surrounded by everyone, you know?"

Lauren: " I know exactly what you mean. I was so full after dinner that I thought I'd never eat again. The food was amazing! And the gifts—we had such a great time exchanging them."

Lewis: " I bet! I can't wait to enjoy all the food you brought me."

Lauren: " I'm excited for you to try them."

Lewis: " What did you get?"

Lauren: " I got a beautiful bracelet from my sister, and my mom gave me this gorgeous dress. But the best part was just being together, laughing and talking all night. How about you?"

Lewis: "My parents got me a huge blanket with a lot of my favorite photos knitted on it."

Lauren: " Aww, that's really sweet!"

Lewis: "According to them, I'll be able to pass it on to our future children."

Lauren: " They're right."

Lewis: " I know they are. My siblings got me a variety of creative gifts too. It was all very thoughtful."

Lauren: " I can only imagine. What do you get someone that has everything?"

Lewis: " That's what my mom said too. Family memories are the best gifts, so I usually don't mind not receiving any presents at all. Speaking of gifts..."

(With a playful twinkle in his eye, he leaned over the side of the bed and grabbed the nightstand. Gently, he opened the drawer and took out a beautifully wrapped box. The shiny paper and neatly tied ribbon glimmered in the light.)

Lauren: " Is that for me?"

Lewis: " It is."

Lauren: "You didn't!"

(She sat up excitedly and eagerly took the box from his hand. Her eyes sparkled with anticipation as she slowly untied the ribbon and carefully peeled away the wrapping paper, savoring every moment.)

Lewis: " I feel the same way about you. What do you give someone who doesn't place much value on material things?"

Lauren: " You're right, but anything from you is always meaningful to me."