The drug store loomed across the street, facing a sidewalk on which Rory and Lane stood. Rory could barely breathe and was shaking lightly, but took the effort to keep a calm façade. Lane stood next to her, patiently waiting for Rory to gather up the courage and walk across the street, through the doors and just get it over with. Lane had spaced out about five minutes ago, so she was surprised when she heard a little mumble say, "Let's go. Get it over with."
The street was crossed, doors were opened, and now Rory stood in the store's bathroom facing away from the test as if it had the bubonic plague. She gathered up the courage, lists being made in her head. Her brain whispered a mantra of Band-Aid, Band-Aid, Band-Aid. She flipped the test over and was suddenly faced with one little word that brought her world, Yale, and everything that she worked towards, crumbling down.
Pregnant.
Rory's faced drained of color and her breathing quickened. The room was spinning and choked sobs were racking her body. She struggled, but faintly cried for Lane. Lane rushed through the doors and grabbed her friend, hugging her tight. She didn't need to look at the test if this was Rory's reaction. Lane just held onto Rory, encouraging her to just let everything out.
Minutes felt like hours as the clock ticked away. Rory looked up from where her face had been buried in Lane's shoulder. Tear tracks covered her face. Lane's heart broke at the sight, wishing that there was more she could do for her friend.
"I'm…I'm-" Rory gasped. She could barely comprehend it, let alone vocalize it.
"I know. And I will be here for you every step of the way." Lane said, quiet and calm. She helped Rory stand up and walked her to the bus stop. They mindlessly boarded the bus as it arrived and sat in silence.
The bus stopped in Stars Hollow and they got off. Rory turned to Lane. There were so many things she wanted to say to her, to express her gratitude, but instead just hugged her. "I need to go and tell my mom."
"Okay." Once again, Rory disappeared.