Tangled Hearts.

~Chapter 55~

~Emily~

~July 20th 2023~

I woke up with a jolt, the realization hitting me like a ton of bricks. Today was graduation day! The day I'd been dreading and anticipating for what felt like forever. Very shortly after I switched to online, Colby and the roommates switched to online as well. I glanced over at Colby, still fast asleep, and couldn't help but smile. He looked so peaceful.

"Good morning, Ms. College Graduate," he mumbled, his eyes fluttering open.

"Hey there," I replied, reaching out to caress his cheek. "Ready for the big day?"

"Absolutely," he said, grinning. "I'm so excited for us."

We lay there for a few more minutes, soaking up the quiet. Then, I remembered all the things I needed to worry about.

"Colby, did our caps and gowns arrive?" I asked, sitting up.

"Yeah, they're in the closet," he replied.
"Oh good," I said, relieved. "Do you think my bump will show through the gown?"

He chuckled. "Nah, you'll be fine. It's pretty loose."

"But what if people look at me and question it?" I asked nervously.

"Who cares?" he said. "We're graduating. That's all that matters."

"But what if Blake starts acting up during the ceremony?" I continued.

Colby rolled his eyes. "Emily, relax. Everything will be fine." I sighed. "I know, I know."

We got out of bed and headed to the bathroom. As we were washing our faces, I couldn't help but ask more questions.

"Colby, do you think I should wear makeup?"

"Whatever you feel comfortable with," he replied.

"What if I trip on stage?" I asked. "Just don't," he said, laughing.

"Colby, I'm serious!" I exclaimed.

He chuckled. "I know. But really, don't worry about it. You'll be fine."

Just then, I smelled something delicious coming from downstairs.

"Isa must be making breakfast," I said, smiling.

"Let's go eat," Colby replied.

We finished washing our faces and after we threw on some sweats, we headed downstairs to the Calvary. "hey, you two love birds!"

Isa was a whirlwind, stirring the eggs in the pan like a pro. "Hey Isa," I said, walking over to give her a hug.

"I can't believe my sister is graduating!" she exclaimed, returning the hug. "I can't believe all of you guys are graduating!" she added, looking around at the crew who was eating breakfast at the bar.

"I know, seems like yesterday when you strolled into West Creek," Sam said, a nostalgic smile on his face.

"I know, it's so crazy how far we've come as friends," I replied, my eyes filling with unshed tears.

"Hey, no tears! This is going to be a great day," Devyn said, dragging me over to the bar. Isa went back over to the eggs.

I sat down and looked over at Blake, who was helping Isa stir. "Hey sweetie, you ready for the ceremony?" I asked.

"Yeah mama, I'm ready! I helped Colby pick out all the ties for Coco, Sammy, and Jaco!" he replied, beaming.

I giggled. "I think the guys are gonna love your ties."

Isa's eyes widened. "Oh, speaking of, I picked out a dress for each of you."

The girls exchanged excited glances. "Aww thank you sis!" they chorused.