Sometimes You Need To Let Down Your Hair

Epilogue and Author's Note

       Two years later

       I gave mom and dad a hug before going with the other group of kids my age. Dad wiped a tear from the corner of his eye, and I teased him. "Dad, are you gonna cry?"

       "Me? No way. I'm not going to cry," he replied loftily. We both chuckled. He gave me another hug and said, "I'm really proud of you Willow."

       I looked up at my dad and smiled, "Thanks dad." Then I turned to my mom and gave her another big hug too. Before I walked away I said, "I love you both so much!" When I turned away I wiped a tear away from my face too. I almost couldn't believe how far I'd come. Today I was graduating from high school, and soon I'd be off to college! It was a dream come true. 

       I waited in line with my peers and had small talk with my friends about how excited we were to be out of school, but I was a little nervous. I hadn't seen Lucas yet. He promised that he'd make it. My worries however were unfounded because just mere moments later I felt someone play with my long hair and say, "Hey Rapunzel guess who's here?"

       I turned around and gave my boyfriend a giant hug. "Lucas I'm glad you could make it"

       "I wouldn't miss this for the world." Just then the teacher adviser walked past and told everyone we'd be starting soon. Lucas gave me one of his signature smiles and said "for good luck," before kissing me. Then he slipped off. 

       Before long the graduation ceremony started and people's names started getting called off. For the second time so far, my life was about to change big time. Sure I'd still visit mom and dad, and Lucas and I would see each other more often due to the close proximity of our colleges, and not much would actually change but I was officially going to be an adult. Ready to face the world. 

      "Allison Callies" 

       I thought about Lucas again and smiled. He was one of the best things that have ever happened to me. I know it was silly, but I hoped that we'd never part. So far we'd been dating for about two years, and I was pretty sure our relationship was going to last.

      "Nathan Darby"

       The names droned on and I thought about my future. I was going to college to become an artist and go into graphic design. I also helped that in doing so I could find a way to spread my story and give hope to other kids who grew up in situations similar to mine. I knew that I'd defiantly volunteer and donate to organizations made to help kids, but I wanted to do more. Who knows? Maybe I'll write a book about it.

   "Willow Fair"

       That was me. I smiled and wiped the sweat off of my shaky palms before walking across the stage and getting my diploma. I looked out in the crowd and saw my family and friends smiling up at me. I took a deep breathe and let myself relax as I walked off of the stage. I felt calm as I took my spot in line. I pushed my blonde locks behind my ears and smiled. Just like Rapunzel, I was about to have my happily ever after.

Author's Note

Hey guys! Thanks for reading my retelling of Rapunzel. I hope that you liked it! I'd love to hear from you all so don't hesitate to comment. This is one of my first 'full stories' so I know I have a lot of room for improvement. If you have any suggestions, I'd love to hear them. Once again thanks for reading!! :)