Feening - Rhea Ripley

Chapter 19 - Family Reunion/The Reveal

Lily sat on the couch, her eyes fixed on the television screen. She absentmindedly adjusted the hem of her dress, acutely aware of the butterflies fluttering in her stomach. It was their family's reunion, and she was anticipating the arrival of her and Demi's family. Both of the girls were dressed in casual but smart-looking clothes. As she waited, she couldn't help but wonder how the day would unfold. Would there be games? Competitions? Or would they simply spend the afternoon catching up over food and drinks? All she could do now, was wait and think about the last time they had all been together.

The massive hallway of their house was lined with photographs of past reunions, each one capturing a moment in time, a memory that they could all cherish. In one corner, Demi stood beside her piano, her fingers poised above the keys, ready to play and sing a song. That song was "Home" by Edith Whiskers, a melancholic yet uplifting tune that she knew Lily loved. Demi had been practicing for some time, to surprise her.

Lily glanced down at the ring on her finger, a smile spreading across her face as she remembered the moment Demi had gotten down on one knee just days ago. It still felt surreal, like a dream she couldn't quite wake up from. Their engagement had been a whirlwind of excitement, joy, and love, and now they were about to share it with their families.

Demi began to play "Home", Lily's head lifting as she heard the familiar melody. Tears welled in her eyes as Demi sang, her voice echoing throughout the hall. The lyrics seemed to speak directly to her heart, about finding home in someone's arms, and she felt an overwhelming sense of love and belonging wash over her. She couldn't help but feel grateful for Demi, for their love, and for this family that had grown to accept them both with open arms.

"Home is whenever I'm with you." Demi beautifully sung, her voice perfect. As she sang those words, Lily could feel the weight of the ring on her finger, a tangible symbol of their commitment to each other. She couldn't help but remember at how fast things had changed, how their love had only grown stronger in the days since Demi had popped the question. It seemed like just yesterday they were just friends and the wrestling club, laughing and enjoying each other's company. Now they were about to embark on a new chapter of their lives together.

Lily walked into the hallway, her eyes lingering on Demi playing the piano, the melody filling the room. She couldn't help but feel a surge of love and pride wash over her. Demi had always been so talented, it only served to deepen Lily's affection for her.

The song ended and as Lily approached, she placed a gentle hand on Demi's shoulder, leaning in to whisper, "You sound incredible, you know that?"

Demi blushed, her cheeks flushed pink as she looked up at Lily with shining eyes. "I was practicing it for you. I wanted to surprise you."

Lily leaned in closer, her heart swelling with love. "It was perfect," she whispered, before pulling Demi into a soft kiss. Their lips met in a tender kiss, and for a moment, the rest of the world faded away. The sound of cars driving past outside and children playing in the distance seemed to fade into the background as they were lost in their own little bubble of love.

They seemed too into the moment as they didn't hear the door knock. The knock on the door grew more insistent, breaking the intimate moment. They both laughed softly, their eyes meeting once more. "They're here!" Lily said, gently nudging Demi towards the door.

As they walked towards the door, their families' chatter and laughter grew louder, filling the hallway with a warmth and joy that only their loved ones could bring. There they were, Demi's mum and dad, Calista, Callum, Frankie and Lily's dad.

Lily's heart skipped a beat as she took in the sight of her dad, his face beaming with happiness and love. Her father had always been a bit rough around the edges, but there was no denying the protectiveness he felt for her. Calista, looked stunning as ever, her eyes shining with excitement. Callum, the gentle giant, with his arm wrapped around Calista. Frankie, tall and broad, with his smile that could light up a room. And then there were Demi's parents, their faces etched with pride and joy.