THE WEIGHT OF DREAMS, Cole Walter ✓

19| PROMISES

EVER SINCE THE UNEXPECTED EPISODE WITH THE STRANDED TRUCK, an air of positivity had enveloped their lives.

Marilyn and Danny, buoyed by their plans to venture to New York, busily orchestrated their preparations, their excitement infusing the household with an infectious energy. Meanwhile, Charis embarked on a quiet yet determined mission to secure admission to summer school, recognizing the opportunity it presented for personal and academic advancement. Similarly, Cole, in his own understated manner, pursued his educational aspirations, aligning with Charis's resolve to forge ahead independently.

Marilyn and Austin were furious when they discovered that Charis was failing school and skipping classes. However, upon learning that she was actively trying to improve her situation, their anger diminished, replaced by a more supportive attitude. Despite her efforts, Charis couldn't bring herself to admit the harsh reality: there was a significantly bigger chance she wouldn't pass this year and might not advance to senior year. It seemed like an impossible challenge, leaving her with no choice but to attempt a Hail Mary.

Despite the unity within them, a collective decision was made to pursue these endeavors individually, acknowledging the potential for conflicts that might arise from tackling them together.

Cole, true to his word, embarked on the task of acquainting Charis with the fundamentals of football. The sight of them both, navigating the intricacies of the sport despite their respective physical challenges, lent a touch of humor to their endeavors.

In a moment of comedic synchronicity, their missteps led to a comical tumble, with both of them landing in a heap atop one another. As laughter echoed across the field, they shared a lighthearted moment, embracing the camaraderie forged through their shared experiences and newfound pursuit.

Despite Marilyn and Danny's best efforts to orchestrate double dates, Charis and Cole found solace in simpler pleasures. They preferred leisurely horseback rides, savoring the tranquility of gentle trots and moments spent by the serene riverbanks.

In these unhurried moments, the troubles involving Jackie and Alex seemed distant, allowing Charis and Cole to immerse themselves fully in the present. With Jackie preoccupied with wedding preparations and Austin's commitment to sobriety and work, the familial dynamics had shifted positively. Even the anniversary of Malory's passing, once a source of profound pain, now carried a gentler ache, softened by time and healing. Charis reflected on these newfound moments of peace and contentment, savoring what she could only describe as a "sweet life."

As the summer approached, Charis contemplated the upcoming months spent in classrooms alongside Cole, that is if they would take her. While it wasn't the great American road trip they had once envisioned, she found solace in the notion that America would always be there, patiently waiting for their exploration. 

On the other hand, Charis decided to take up driving lessons again, despite her aversion to being behind the wheel. She recognized the practical necessity of obtaining her driver's license, especially with the looming prospect of rodeo competitions on the horizon.

With determination set in her heart, she aimed to secure her license by the start of the next year, viewing it as a crucial step towards pursuing her passion for barrel racing alongside her trusted companion, Bandit. Cole's support and presence in her endeavors served as an additional source of motivation, solidifying their partnership in both rodeo training and life's adventures. As they embarked on this new chapter of their journey, Charis anticipated the joy of sharing the experience with the twins, knowing that together they would overcome any obstacles that came their way.

Cole reveled in the sense of contentment that had settled over their lives, relishing in the newfound harmony and stability. As the anticipation for his brother's wedding mounted, he found himself filled with excitement, eager to celebrate the joyous occasion alongside his loved ones.