Stars on Broadway - Morgan Wallen

Chapter 47 - Reconnecting with Family

The night after their public reappearance, Georgie and Morgan sat together, their phones buzzing with the aftermath of their red carpet trolling. The excitement hadn't died down, but amid the flurry of fan reactions, both of them knew they needed to take a breather—away from the spotlight.

"Want to head to Gatlinburg for a couple of days?" Morgan asked casually, leaning back on the couch, his arm draped over her shoulders.

Georgie smiled, already knowing that some time away with their families would be exactly what they needed. "Sounds perfect. Let's take a break from all of this and just... be with the people who really know us."

The drive to Gatlinburg was filled with lighthearted conversation, country music playing softly in the background. Georgie had always loved the scenic route that led back to her parents' small ranch just outside of town. It was a reminder of where she came from—a world far removed from the flashing cameras and frenzied crowds.

When they finally arrived, the familiar sight of her childhood home brought a sense of calm. Her parents had been following their journey from a distance, always supportive, but this would be the first time they'd seen her and Morgan together since everything had started.

Her mom, Joan, greeted them at the door with her usual warmth, pulling Georgie into a tight hug. "It's so good to have you home, honey."

Georgie smiled, the tension she hadn't realized she'd been holding in her shoulders finally melting away. "It's good to be home, Mom."

Her dad, Hank, wasn't far behind, shaking Morgan's hand with a grin. "You still causing trouble, son?"

Morgan laughed, his eyes twinkling. "Always, sir."

The day passed in a blur of home-cooked meals, laughter, and shared stories around the kitchen table. Georgie and Morgan felt the weight of the outside world slip away, replaced with the comfort of being surrounded by the people who had known them long before the fame and the spotlight.

Later that evening, they sat on the porch, watching the sun dip below the mountains. Georgie's dad leaned back in his chair, glancing over at them.

"You two seem happier than the last time I saw you," he said with a knowing smile.

Georgie glanced at Morgan, who gave her a small nod, his hand resting on her knee. "We are, Dad. We had some stuff to work through, but... we're in a good place now."

Joan, always the worrier, leaned forward, her eyes softening. "That's what matters. You two have been through a lot, and I know the media makes it even harder. But as long as you have each other, you'll be just fine."

Georgie's heart warmed at her mom's words. "Thanks, Mom. It's been a rollercoaster, but we're figuring it out."

The next day, Morgan suggested they visit his family, who lived nearby. They packed up a few things and made the short drive to Morgan's parents' house, where the welcome was just as warm.

Morgan's mom, Lesli, was overjoyed to see them together again. She fussed over them both, offering home-cooked meals and making sure they were comfortable. Morgan's dad, Tommy, was more reserved, but his quiet pride was evident as he watched his son with Georgie.

"You've been making waves, boy," Tommy said to Morgan, his voice gruff but affectionate. "But I'm glad to see you've still got your head on straight."

Morgan chuckled, glancing at Georgie. "I've got her to thank for that."

The family spent the afternoon together, laughing and reminiscing. It was a reminder for both Georgie and Morgan of where they came from—and the love and support that had carried them through their toughest moments.

By the time they returned to Nashville, they felt renewed, their hearts lighter after spending time with the people who mattered most. But as soon as they stepped through the door of Georgie's apartment, reality came crashing back.

Her phone buzzed with a message from her manager, and Morgan's phone wasn't far behind. The labels had taken notice of the buzz surrounding their relationship—and they wanted to capitalize on it.

"They want us to release more songs together," Georgie said, reading through the text. "And... more appearances."

Morgan sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I figured this would happen. The buzz from the event is still going strong."

Georgie looked up at him, a mix of excitement and uncertainty in her eyes. "What do you think? Should we go for it?"

Morgan hesitated for a moment, thinking. "We've always done things on our terms, Georgie. If we do this, we have to make sure it doesn't overwhelm us again."

She nodded, appreciating his thoughtfulness. "I agree. But maybe this could be fun—another chance to show the world who we are together."

Morgan smiled, pulling her close. "Then let's do it. But only if we keep having fun with it."

Georgie grinned, already imagining their next move. "Deal. Let's show them what we've got."