Luke, You are My Father Chapter 11: First to Know, a gilmore girls fanfic

First to Know

Late fall, 2016. Luke had just closed up his diner for the night and was preparing to return home to his wife, Lorelai. Wife. That thought seemed surreal after all these years, and it made him feel giddy. Finally, finally, they were together.

The bell tinkled over the door. Dang it! He still needed to lock up.

"We're closed…." Luke stopped when he saw his stepdaughter, Rory standing in the doorway. She had an almost stricken look on her face. "Oh. Rory! Sorry, I thought you were…." Luke's voice trailed off, and his stomach tightened when he noticed the stricken look had not left Rory's eyes. "Rory? Princess, what's wrong?"

There was a brief silence. And then, Rory's face scrunched up and she began to weep. Luke stared, concerned for her and yet unsure what to do. "I'm….. I'm pregnant….. I just found out….. Luke, please don't tell Mom; I haven't told her yet! I know you must be disappointed….. I just want to come home…. Please don't be mad…."

Luke walked around the counter. No longer needing to think about it, he pulled Rory into a hug. Now she really broke down, sending wracking sobs into his flannel shirt. All Luke could do was rub soothing circles along her back, dare to kiss her hair.

"The only person I am mad at is the little punk who did this to you – who is now at the top of my Most Wanted List."

Rory laughed, hiccupping through her tears.

"Rory, no matter what your mom says, I will be here for you. And we will get through this as a family. I promise."

Rory's sobs began anew, as she nestled her head into Luke's chest. Ever since he had begun dating Lorelai, Luke had allowed more affectionate moments like this between himself and Rory, despite his gruff exterior. Now family by marriage, these moments would only continue.

Finally, Rory let out a deep, shuddering breath, and relaxed in Luke's arms. She was as calm in his embrace as any daughter would be with her father.