Chapter 31: dream becomes reality


A week goes by and Rebecca's parents arrive for her graduation. They escort them to the room that they prepared for them.

There you go, we prepared the guest room for you. Well... it's the guest room for now anyway.

Ryan gives Zach a questioning look.

For now? Are you planning on changing it?

Maybe... Rebecca?

We have some news, we'll talk about it during dinner when Natasha will also be there.

But...

Charlotte interrupts him as Ryan attempts to investigate further.

They'll tell us when they're ready. You're on vacation, no detective mode. We're going to unpack and take a nap before dinner, it was a long drive.

Dinner is at six, see you then.

They help Natasha with dinner and take place at the table.

Bon appetite everyone.

Ryan manages to take a couple bites before he runs out of patience.

Amazing as always Natasha.

Thank you. Now that I have a lot of free time on my hands, I've been practicing all kinds of new recipes.

It shows. Now, about that news...

Rebecca shakes her head and laughs.

I was wondering how long you would last. Fine, I'll tell you. My internship at the hospital went well and of one the doctors is retiring, they offered me her spot. I'm starting next month.

Charlotte has to hold herself back from crawling over the table.

Congratulations! I'm so happy for you, I'd give you a kiss but my mouth is full.

Ryan reaches across the table and places his hand on Rebecca's.

I always knew you would make it, I'm so proud of you.

It's so crazy to actually be done with school, it felt like an eternity. Thank you for saving up all the money and...

Ryan gestures her to stop.

Nothing makes a parent happier than seeing their child happy, no matter what the cost.

Natasha nods in agreement.

Too much does not exist when it comes to your child.

Zach makes eye contact with Rebecca and motions her to move on.

One last thing. Now that I'm done with school and have a stable job... we're going to start trying.

Charlotte drops her knife and fork.

Really?! That's so exciting!

Natasha reacts a bit calmer.

You've been together for long enough, it makes sense.

Meanwhile Ryan is still trying to piece things together.

Trying what?

Oh come on dad, you can't be serious. Remember when Zach said the guest room would be changing?

I do... oh! A baby!

Charlotte bursts out laughing.

There he is, took you long enough. Working behind a desk has dulled your detective instincts it seems.

Very funny.

Rebecca does her best to comfort him.

I'm sorry about putting that information in your head dad.

It's fine, you're no longer kids. You're married and in a stable situation, I'm not worried about it. Natasha is next door as a "safety blanket" if necessary too.

Natasha nods.

True, I'll happily show you everything I know.

They spend some more time together before calling it an early night in preparation of the graduation ceremony tomorrow.

One by one the names of the graduates are called and they walk onto the podium to accept their diploma.

Rebecca Lindley-Gray.

Zach practically jumps out of his seat and starts applauding loudly, drawing plenty of attention to himself.

After everybody has had their turn, the graduates join their families.

Rebecca comes rushing over and jumps into Zach's arms.

Congratulations, doctor.

I'm so excited! I can finally stop practicing on you.

Charlotte can't help but laugh a bit.

You actually did that?

Zach nods.

Oh yeah, she practiced on me all the time. At first, I was super excited. I thought she wanted to "play doctor" but I turned out that she was serious. Sorry if that's too much information Ryan.

He shrugs halfheartedly.

I'm just going to pretend that I didn't hear it. People are... "paying close attention" to us, just letting you know.

The frustration is clear to see on Rebecca's face.

A lot of people on campus have been wondering about Zach all year long. I pretty much dodged all their questions and never really hung around to avoid it all.

Is that why you never wanted me to come pick you up?

I didn't want you to have to deal with that. Besides, you bought me a car for a reason.

It's over now, doesn't matter anymore. And the people at the hospital know already anyway.

Yeah... now I have to do it for real.

No need to be nervous. You graduated at the top of your class and were hired before you even graduated. They didn't do that because you have a pretty face, but because they know that you can do it. Right everyone?

They all smile and nod.

Absolutely, no reason to doubt yourself.

You proved yourself and were rewarded for it.

Time to build on that vote of confidence.

Rebecca barely manages to hold back her emotions.

Thank you all for the support, I'm very grateful. The rest is up to me.

And now it's time to celebrate!

Zach grabs Rebecca, lifts her on top of his shoulder and carries her towards the car. Rebecca is a bit embarrassed because all the other students and their families are looking at them, but she's to happy to care.

The rest of the weekend they spend quality time together before Ryan and Charlotte head back home.

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