Race of Love

End

The evening had been a small and yet bright spot in an otherwise chaotic time for Maya. As she and Kaeo walked back to the dorm after their outing, the crisp night air felt invigorating as it kissed their cheeks, Even kaeo had a slightly red nose and flushed cheeks that made her look all the more alluring. She looked away as they held hands on the walk home, Maya was still processing everything Kaeo had shared with her, the warmth of their conversation, and the unexpected revelation of Kaeo's feelings. It was more than she had hoped for, but her mind was still clouded with the uncertainty of her situation.

When they reached the dorm, Kaeo opened the door for their common area. The atmosphere felt a bit thick as Maya realized that the date was now over. They lingered in the common room, their hands still in union. Her heart pounding, she made eye contact with Kaeo. Maya had been struggling with the overwhelming emotions that came with her recent news, and the comfort Kaeo had provided tonight was something she didn't want to let go of. "Kaeo... I was wondering if you'd stay with me tonight. I know it's a lot to ask, but I just... I don't want to be alone."

Kaeo's eyes softened, and she nodded without hesitation. "Of course, Maya. Let me change real quick and ill meet you in bed."

Maya felt a rush of relief. It was comforting to know that Kaeo would be there with her, and she was grateful for the support. After a moment, the women made their way to Maya's room, and Maya tried to push aside the nervous flutter in her stomach.

Kaeo helped Maya arrange the bed and made sure everything was comfortable. After changing into pajamas, Maya sat on the edge of the bed, her hands fidgeting nervously. Kaeo reached out, gently placing her hand on Maya's. She took a deep breath, her emotions swirling. Looking at Kaeo, their gaze met with a vulnerability that made her heart race. "Kaeo, I want to thank you for everything. For being here and for being a good friend and for being so honest with me tonight."

Kaeo smiled softly, her thumb brushing lightly over Maya's hand. "You don't have to thank me. I'm here because I care about you and I want to be here."

The words hung in the air between them, Maya found herself inching closer, her heart thudding in her chest. "Kaeo... I..I"

Kaeo looked at her with a soft smile, "Yeah?..."

Before Maya could second-guess herself, she leaned in, her lips brushing against Kaeo's in a tentative, hesitant kiss. It was gentle but electrifying, a spark that set her nerves alight. Kaeo responded, her lips moving softly against Maya's, the kiss deepened as they both gave in to the moment.

She could feel her free hand cup the left side of her face. Their breaths quickening as tongue was introduced, a dance that complimented their dynamic untamed and unexplored, she could still taste the latte Kaeo had earlier. Their breaths fell into unison as they fell back onto the sheets. Her scent, her warmth, her touch was all she thought it would be. She found herself lost in the kiss high of bliss. Whose air was she breathing? Why did she feel so right? It all felt so right.

When they finally pulled apart, Maya's breath came in short gasps, her face matching Kaeo's: flushed with a mixture of relief and emotion.

"I've been feeling so lost lately, but when I'm with you, everything seems a little clearer."

""I feel the same way, Maya. You're so easy to be with, I don't feel like I have to perform or be the token anything for anyone. I can be whatever crazy I am and you just accept me. I love your dedication to running, and it's one of the things I admire about you so much."

Maya kissed her forehead with a smile. It was too much to believe at this moment but she would be damned if she woke up from it. Maya nestled closer to Kaeo her worries momentarily faded as they moved up the bed towards the pillows nestling in together, Kaeo wrapped her arms around Maya, and Maya felt a peaceful calm settle over her.

"Thank you, Kaeo," Maya murmured as she rested her head on Kaeo's chest.

"Anytime," Kaeo replied softly, kissing the top of Maya's head. "I'm not going anywhere."

--------------------------

Maya stood in front of the mirror, her hand resting on the gentle curve of her belly. She was four months pregnant, and though the changes were subtle, they were unmistakable. The days that followed were a blur of decisions. They talked about what it meant to Maya to be pregnant with twins, what she wanted to do, and how to navigate the future. Kaeo was there every step of the way, guiding her through the maze of emotions and decisions.

The day came when she finally called her parents, her voice trembling as she told them the truth. It wasn't easy, and their reactions were mixed, but she had done it. She had taken that step, and it felt like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. As she hung up the phone, she turned to Kaeo, who had been by her side the entire time.

Maya found solace in Kaeo's unwavering presence, both emotionally and physically. The connection they shared grew stronger, and Maya began to see a future where she could navigate her responsibilities with someone who truly cared for her.

It was finally the day to attend her first major prenatal check-up, and while she was still uncertain about her future, she felt more prepared to face it. The two entered the clinic and signed in, The appointment went smoothly, with the doctor providing reassuring updates on her health and the development of the twins.

"Maya," the doctor began., "I want to talk to you about your options moving forward. As we've discussed before, the health of you and the babies is our top priority. But it's also important to address the various choices you have regarding the future of your pregnancy."

Maya's heart raced a bit, she glanced at Kaeo, who reached over and squeezed her hand. "Okay," Maya said softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

The doctor continued, "One option you might consider is adoption. It's a choice many people make when they feel they aren't in a position to raise a child. Adoption can provide a loving home for your babies and can also give you the space to focus on your own future."

Maya's throat tightened, and she felt a lump forming. The idea of giving up her babies was something she hadn't fully considered, and hearing it now made her heart ache. She looked down at her hands, struggling to keep her composure.

"I... I didn't think about that," Maya said, her voice trembling. "I don't even know if I can... if I want to."

Kaeo's hand tightened around Maya's, her eyes full of concern. "We don't have to make any decisions right now. We can talk about this more when you're ready."

The doctor nodded, her expression sympathetic. "Absolutely. This is a big decision, and it's important to take your time and consider all your options. If you need support or counseling, we can connect you with resources to help you through this process."

Maya took a deep breath, trying to process the information. The thought of giving her babies up for adoption felt overwhelming and surreal. She had always imagined raising them herself,sure alone, but the reality of her situation made the choice seem more complex.

"I'll think about it," Maya said finally, her voice steadying. "I just need some time."

The doctor nodded in understanding. "Of course. If you have any questions or need support, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to help you in any way we can."

As the doctor left the room, Maya leaned back in her chair, her mind a whirl of emotions. Kaeo sat beside her, her presence a steady source of comfort. Maya looked at her, her eyes brimming with uncertainty.

"I don't know what to do, Kaeo," Maya admitted, her voice filled with anguish. "The thought of giving them up is so painful, but I don't know if I'm ready for this."

Kaeo's eyes were full of empathy as she gently stroked Maya's hair. "It's okay to feel this way. You don't have to have all the answers right now. You'll figure this out, and I will help you, and together we will thrive. No matter what you decide."

----------------------------------------