The following morning, sunlight streamed through the kitchen window as Shelby and Cassie sat down to breakfast. The clinking of cutlery was the only sound in the otherwise silent room. After finishing her meal, Cassie looked around and broke the stillness. "It's too quiet here," she said, her voice filled with longing. "I'd much rather hear the lively chatter and laughter of four teenagers filling this house."
Shelby nodded in agreement, a hint of a smile on her face. "So do I," she replied, wishing for the noise and energy that came with their daughters bustling around.
As the clock struck noon, the sun bathed the neighborhood in a golden hue, creating a serene backdrop for the day ahead. Shelby slid into the driver's seat with a mix of concern and determination, ready to take Rachel to their family doctor's office for her much-anticipated appointment. The car hummed softly as they made their way through familiar streets, the warmth of the sun filtering through the windows and wrapping them in comfort.
As they approached Dr. Thompson's office, a sense of anxiety intertwined with the hope for answers filled the air. Shelby glanced over at Rachel, who sat silently beside her, her brow furrowed in thought. This visit wasn't just about physical symptoms; it was a crucial step towards understanding the mental and emotional struggles that weighed heavily on Rachel. Shelby's heart ached for her daughter, and she steeled herself for the discussion ahead, knowing how important it was to advocate for Rachel's well-being during the examination.
After Doctor Thompson thoroughly examines Rachel, she gestures for Shelby and Rachel to follow her into her office. The atmosphere is calm, filled with soft lighting and comfortable seating as they make their way to the chairs positioned around a small table. Shelby sits anxiously, glancing at Rachel, who seems both curious and apprehensive as they await the results of the examination.
"How is my daughter, Dr. Thompson?" Shelby inquires, her voice tinged with worry.
Doctor Thompson paused for a moment, taking a deep breath to gather her thoughts before offering a warm, reassuring smile. "Shelby, I want you to know that Rachel is healthy overall, but there's something significant we need to talk about. Rachel has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, level 1."
Shelby's heart sank as she glanced at her daughter. She instinctively wrapped her arm around Rachel, pulling her close in a protective embrace. "What does it mean that she has ASD level 1?" she asked, her voice tinged with concern.
Dr. Thompson nodded empathetically. "ASD level 1 indicates that Rachel experiences some challenges with social communication and may display restrictive or repetitive behaviors. This diagnosis helps explain the ups and downs you've noticed in her behavior; it's not uncommon for children on the spectrum to have these fluctuations."
A frown creased Shelby's forehead as she looked back at Rachel, who was quietly absorbing the information. "How long has Rachel had autism? I don't understand; no one in my family has ever had it," she inquired anxiously.
Dr. Thompson's expression softened. "Rachel has likely had Autism since early childhood, but it can often go undiagnosed for years, particularly when the signs are subtle. What's important now is to ensure you have the right tools and resources to support her. Sometimes, autism can skip several generations, and it doesn't always manifest in the same way for everyone."
Shelby nodded slowly, processing the information as she continued to hold Rachel close, determined to learn how best to help her daughter navigate this journey.
As Dr. Thompson concluded the conversation, she handed Shelby a set of brochures filled with information and resources designed to support families like hers. After reviewing the brochures, Shelby expressed her gratitude, her voice steady despite the emotional storm within her. "Thank you, Dr. Thompson," she said, feeling a sense of hope mixed with uncertainty as she took the prescription, ready to begin this new chapter in their lives.
After leaving the doctor's office, Shelby made her way to the drugstore, where she filled Rachel's prescription. An unsettling silence hung in the air as they returned to the car, adding weight to the atmosphere.
As they sat in the vehicle, Shelby gently ran her fingers through her daughter's hair, breaking the quiet. "Are you okay?" she asked, concern lacing her voice, for Rachel had been unusually silent since they left the hospital.
"I'm fine," Rachel responded softly, though her distant gaze suggested otherwise. Shelby studied her daughter for several moments, searching for some spark of reassurance in Rachel's expression. Finally, she sighed, started the car, and drove home, the quiet hum of the engine filling the void between them.
Once they arrived, Rachel hurriedly retreated to her room, lying down on her bed, trying to escape the weight of the day. Meanwhile, Shelby took a deep breath and called Cassie, preparing to explain Rachel's diagnosis, her heart heavy with unspoken worries.
As the clock struck six, Cassie prepared to leave the cozy living room where the afternoon sun poured in through the windows, casting warm golden light over the Monopoly board. With its colorful properties and stacks of paper money, the game had become an engaging escape for her and her daughters. Joyful laughter echoed around the room as Rachel,Shelby and Cassie were deep into their game when Cassie reluctantly decided it was time to take a break.
"Alright, I need to head out to pick up Santana, Quinn, and Kitty from Brittany's house. Keep playing and have fun until I get back!" she said, flashing them a bright smile before making her way to the front door.
With a twinkle in her eye and a hint of competitive spirit, Rachel chimed in, "Well, I was winning anyway!" She leaned back in her chair, a playful grin spreading across her face.
Cassie laughed, shaking her head in playful disbelief. "Sure you were, Rach!" she replied, her amusement evident as she grabbed her car keys from the counter. The familiar jingle of the keys filled the air as she turned to leave, warmth lingering in the room before she stepped out, closing the door behind her.
After Cassie picked up Quinn, Kitty and Santana 's at Brittany sleepover, they made a brief stop at Marissa's house to collect Santana's belongings. Inside Marissa's cozy living room, Cassie engaged in a warm conversation with her sister in law , sharing a few laughs before they gathered the children to head out. The air was filled with excitement as they piled into the car, and Cassie navigated through the streets towards her favorite healthy restaurant. The fragrant aroma of freshly prepared food lingered in the air as they picked up their takeout, and soon enough, they were driving home, the chatter of Santana, Kitty, and Quinn filling the car with stories about their adventures with friends during the sleepover.
Cassie smiled, pleased to hear their enthusiasm, but she knew there was an important conversation that needed to happen. "Girls," she began, her tone shifting slightly, "your mom and I have something important to discuss."
"You're pregnant!" Santana blurted out, her eyes wide with a mix of excitement and surprise.
Kitty erupted into laughter, while Quinn playfully hit Santana on the arm in a mock reprimand.
"No, we're not having a baby! Quinn, apologize to your sister," Cassie said with a chuckle, trying to ease the misunderstanding.
"I'm sorry, Sandy," Quinn said, her voice sincere and slightly sheepish.
As they reached the house, Quinn and Kitty eagerly helped carry Santana's suitcase inside while Cassie balanced the takeout bags. The front door swung open to reveal Shelby, who greeted them with a warm smile. She enveloped each of the kids in loving hugs and pecks on the cheek, her joy radiating as she asked, "Did you all have fun?"
The children nodded enthusiastically, and Shelby, still with her arm around Santana, instructed Quinn and Kitty to help carry Tiger's belongings to her bedroom. Once they were out of earshot, she turned to Cassie, her brows knitted in concern. "Are you sure you want to tell the girls this now?" she asked softly, glancing towards the kitchen where Cassie was setting the food on the stove.
"Yes, they need to know," Cassie declared, her voice firm and unwavering. "We can't keep it hidden any longer. Besides, Tiger already assumed we were having a baby, and I had to deny it."
Shelby nodded in agreement as she began to help her wife prepare the meal. The kitchen was filled with the rich aroma of eggplant lasagna, which she carefully layered onto plates, ensuring everyone received a generous serving. For Rachel, she added a vibrant salad, the greens crisp and fresh.
On the other plates, Shelby arranged two perfectly seasoned grilled chicken breasts, glistening with marinade, accompanied by colorful side salads. With plates in hand, the two women made their way to the dining area, calling for the girls to come down for dinner.
As they waited, Santana darted into the kitchen to grab the cups, her footsteps swift and purposeful. Kitty followed closely, pouring the drinks with a focused look, while Quinn busied herself with the refreshments. Rachel emerged, clutching a box of crackers, prepared just in case anyone might want a light snack. The air buzzed with anticipation as the family gathered around the table, ready to enjoy a delicious meal together.
Santana, Kitty, and Quinn animatedly recounted the delightful stories from their sleepover to Shelby, whose face was illuminated with happiness as she listened. Each tale was a thread woven into the fabric of their shared memories, and Shelby felt an immense wave of relief wash over her. Santana was back home, nestled in the warmth of family, where she truly belonged.
Laughter danced through the air, creating a symphony of joy, and soon a warm group hug enveloped them, radiant smiles reflecting the love and camaraderie they shared.
Shelby and Cassie spoke earnestly, pouring out their heartfelt gratitude to Quinn and Kitty, who received their words with genuine appreciation. With a shared understanding and affectionate glances, Quinn and Kitty excused themselves to take their nightly routines upstairs, leaving Cassie and Santana on the couch, where a more intimate conversation awaited.
As they sat together, a slight cloud of uncertainty hung over Santana. She regarded Cassie with a mix of skepticism and hope, questioning the foundation of their newly forged connection. Sensing the tension, Cassie took a deep breath, her expression softening and her voice gentle as she spoke. "I'm truly sorry for any pain I may have caused you," she said sincerely. She reflected on her past behavior, admitting to moments of rudeness that had hurt both herself and those she cared for. "It was never my intention to lash out at you. I hope that one day, you can find it in your heart to forgive me."
Santana's face tightened, and she replied, "I can't right now, Mama. You hurt me more than I ever thought you could when you chose to side with her." There was a tremor of vulnerability in her voice. "I'm trying to get better. Please excuse me. Good night," she added, her words tumbling out hurriedly as she rushed upstairs, needing the solace of her room.
In that heavy silence, Shelby entered, her presence filled with warmth, and gently asked Cassie, "How did it go?"
"Not well, shells," Cassie replied, her voice heavy with regret. "I hurt her more than I realized."
Shelby wrapped her arms around her wife, offering comfort and understanding. "She will forgive us one day," she reassured, sensing the weight of sadness between them. Together, they made their way upstairs, locking the doors downstairs as a prelude to their quiet evening, hearts heavy but hopeful for the future.