Unexpected Love

Chapter 19

It was one of those days when the unexpected happened, as it often did in the world of medicine. Derek's afternoon had suddenly turned from routine to chaotic with a last-minute emergency surgery. Glancing at the clock, he knew he wouldn't be able to pick up Crystal from school on time, and after a quick call to Meredith, he breathed a sigh of relief.

"Of course, I'll pick her up, Derek," Meredith assured him. "We'll be just fine."

With a grateful smile, he thanked her. "You're the best, Mer. I'll make it up to both of you later."

Later that afternoon, Meredith stood outside Crystal's school, waiting among the parents. The sight of her made Crystal's face light up, and she dashed out, her backpack bouncing with excitement.

"Meredith!" Crystal called out, beaming. "Where's Dad?"

"He had an emergency surgery, so I'm your pick-up person today!" Meredith said, opening her arms for a hug. "How about we do something fun?"

"Can we go to the mall?" Crystal asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

Meredith grinned. "I think that sounds like a great idea."

After a short drive, they arrived at the mall, where the Build-A-Bear Workshop quickly caught Crystal's eye. They stepped inside, surrounded by rows of unstuffed bears, colorful clothes, and cheerful staff.

"I want to make a bear that's just like Daddy!" Crystal declared as she picked out a soft, golden teddy. Meredith helped her find a tiny blue surgeon's scrubs set, complete with a matching cap and a mini stethoscope.

"Look, it's a mini Dr. Shepherd!" Meredith laughed, watching as Crystal beamed, dressing up the bear carefully.

"This bear is going to do surgeries just like you and Dad," Crystal said proudly. "Maybe one day it'll be as good as you."

Meredith's heart swelled at the sweet thought. "I think it's already pretty great," she replied, giving Crystal a gentle squeeze.

They moved on, picking out a few new clothes and grabbing pizza together, sharing stories and laughter. By the time they returned to Derek's house, the sun had set, and a peaceful quiet had settled over the evening. Meredith sent a quick text to Derek: We're home, helping with Crystal's homework and winding down.

As they settled in, Meredith helped Crystal change into her pajamas and then guided her through her homework. With her assignments done, Crystal grabbed her new bear, cuddling up to Meredith on the couch.

"Can we watch Home Alone?" she asked, her eyes hopeful.

Meredith chuckled. "Perfect choice. Let's do it."

They snuggled up, laughing as Kevin outsmarted the would-be burglars. Before the credits rolled, Crystal was fast asleep, her tiny head resting on Meredith's shoulder, the little surgeon bear tucked under her arm.

When Derek finally arrived home around 10 p.m., he found them both curled up on the couch, the soft glow of the TV illuminating the room. Smiling, he gently lifted Crystal, carrying her to bed, then returned to Meredith, who was now stretching and waking.

"Thank you for today, Mer," Derek whispered, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "I owe you big time."

"Anytime," she murmured, smiling sleepily. "Crystal's amazing... we had so much fun."

Derek took Meredith's hand, guiding her upstairs to his room, where the dim light cast a warm glow. As they climbed into bed, he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. They lay together in comfortable silence, the day's sweetness lingering between them.

Meredith rested her head on his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, feeling a rare contentment settle over her. Derek pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead, his hand tracing soothing patterns along her back.

"Thank you again, Mer," he whispered, his voice soft. "For today, and for everything you do for us."

She smiled, her fingers lacing through his. "It was a perfect day, Derek. I wouldn't trade it for anything."

With a final goodnight kiss, they drifted off together, savoring the warmth and quiet of each other's presence, ready for whatever the next day would bring.