Unexpected Love

Chapter 20

Meredith's apartment was buzzing with energy as she packed her things, excitement mixed with a touch of nostalgia as she sorted through items from her life here. Lexie was by her side, carefully wrapping shoes and books, while Derek popped in every so often, grabbing boxes of clothes and essentials to carry down to his car. It was a simple move, just the essentials since one of her colleagues would be taking over the apartment, but it still felt monumental.

"Gosh, Mer," Lexie laughed, folding some blankets and placing them in a box. "You travel pretty light for a surgeon."

Meredith chuckled, taping up another box. "Yeah, I've never been one for accumulating stuff. Just clothes, some personal things, and books. Moving doesn't feel as overwhelming that way."

"Smart," Lexie replied, handing her another stack of neatly folded sweaters. "This is all coming together fast—though it's going to be strange not having you around the building."

Meredith paused, smiling. "I know. It's going to be strange not being here with you right across the hall, but you know where to find me."

"Don't worry," Lexie smirked, nudging her. "I'll be over all the time, especially if Derek's cooking."

Derek reappeared in the doorway, wiping his hands. "You're both welcome anytime. As long as I get Meredith to myself now and then."

Meredith rolled her eyes, but her smile was unmistakable. "Alright, Romeo, take this last box, and we'll be all set."

Once everything was loaded, Derek and Lexie helped Meredith lock up the apartment, and they drove the short distance to his house. As they pulled into the driveway, they saw a little face peeking through the front window.

"There's my welcoming committee," Derek said, smiling at his daughter's excitement.

As soon as they walked in, Crystal darted forward, her face lighting up when she saw Meredith. "You're really moving in?"

"I am," Meredith replied, crouching down to give her a hug. "I'll be here a lot more now, so you'll probably get sick of me."

Crystal shook her head vigorously. "No way! This is going to be the best."

Lexie helped them unload the last few boxes before saying her goodbyes. "I'll leave you guys to settle in. Meredith, you better invite me over for a proper housewarming, though!"

"Absolutely," Meredith laughed, giving her a hug. "Thanks for all your help, Lexie."

After Lexie left, Derek, Meredith, and Crystal started unpacking in the bedroom. Crystal eagerly helped Meredith find spots for her clothes in the closet, excitedly arranging her things while Meredith worked on some final organization.

As they settled down in the kitchen for a late lunch, Derek took Meredith's hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Welcome home, Mer."

A warmth spread through her, and she felt a sense of belonging she hadn't felt in a long time. "Thanks, Derek. It feels...perfect."

Crystal leaned forward with a grin. "Does this mean we get to do movie nights all the time now?"

Meredith laughed. "Yes, we'll make movie nights a regular thing."

After lunch, they decided to take a walk through the neighborhood park, enjoying the crisp autumn air. Crystal walked between them, happily holding both their hands, her joy infectious.

Later that evening, as they sat together on the couch, Crystal curled up with her favorite blanket, and Derek pulled Meredith close, wrapping his arm around her.

"Think you'll be able to handle us?" he whispered, a teasing look in his eyes.

She leaned into him, smiling. "I think I'll manage. I'm exactly where I want to be."