Tangled Hearts.

~Chapter 41~

~Raelyn~

The family movie nights had quickly become a cherished ritual. As the lights dimmed and the screen flickered to life, a hush would fall over the room, punctuated only by the rustle of popcorn and the occasional shared glance as a particularly funny or touching scene played out.

It was during these moments that I felt a deep sense of belonging, my laughter mingling with that of my friends, my heart full. Game nights, too, were a source of endless entertainment and friendly competition.

The clatter of dice on the table, the playful banter, and the mock groans of defeat were the soundtrack of our evenings.

I would often find myself caught up in the excitement, my spirits lifted by the camaraderie. It was more than just games; it was a bonding experience, a way to forge lasting memories.

Our commitment to staying active brought us to the home gym together, where encouragement and motivation were generously shared. Watching each other grow stronger not only physically but also in our support for one another was empowering.

Me, with my growing baby bump, would often receive cheers and claps as I completed my workouts, a testament to the group's solidarity. Even though I was only about 2 and a half months pregnant, I could feel all the symptoms hitting me like a recking ball. From morning sickness to occasional food cravings, I felt it all.

Perhaps most touching of all were the trips to my doctor appointments. The roommates' presence was a tangible reminder that I wasn't alone on this journey. Each heartbeat of me and Colby's unborn child, heard through the doctor's instruments, was a shared miracle, a collective intake of breath followed by smiles all around.

My eyes would shine with unspoken gratitude, my hand often finding a comforting squeeze from one of my friends. In the quiet moments, when the bustle of the day gave way to the soft whispers of night, I would often reflect on how lucky I felt.

The trap house had become more than just a place to stay; it was a home, a sanctuary where everyone was cherished, and every moment together was a treasure. The baby, still cocooned within me, was already loved by an entire family – a family of friends who had come together under one roof to create something truly special.

~April 12th~

The morning sun filtered through the curtains of the trap house as I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting my blouse.

My hands trembled slightly, betraying my nervousness. "You look great, Rae," Colby said, stepping up behind me and placing his hands on my shoulders.

"Dean Harris is going to understand. You've got solid reasons for the switch." I met his gaze in the mirror, my eyes wide with worry.

"What if he doesn't? What if this messes up everything?" Colby's reflection smiled reassuringly.

"Hey, everything is going to be fine. You're making the best decision for you right now, and that's what matters." Taking a deep breath, I nodded, trying to believe his words.

"Okay, let's do this." We left the house, the rest of the roommates offering encouraging smiles and thumbs-ups. Colby drove us to campus, the car ride filled with my practiced explanations and Colby's steady affirmations.

As we parked near the administration building, my nerves threatened to overwhelm me again.

Colby reached over, taking my hand. "Remember, I'm right here with you. You're not alone in this." With a squeeze of his hand, I felt a spark of courage.

"I love you." he smiled and kissed my forehead. "I love you too."

Together, we walked toward the Dean's office, ready to face whatever came next. I took a deep breath, smoothing the front of my shirt as me and Colby approached the Dean's office.