**Chapter 18: Decisions**

Ren and Xander sat on the couch, staring at each other as they processed the news. They had talked about it for hours, but now it was time to make some decisions. Ren's mind was racing with thoughts of what this meant for their future, for her studies, and for Xander's lifestyle. As they sat there, Xander reached out and took Ren's hand, his dark blue eyes locked on hers. "We've got this," he said, his voice filled with conviction. "We'll figure it out together." Ren nodded, feeling a sense of reassurance wash over her. She knew that Xander was right, they could do this. But she also knew that it wouldn't be easy. "What do we do first?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Xander smiled and pulled her close. "First, we take care of you and the baby," he said. "We'll get you set up with a doctor, and make sure you're getting the best care possible." Ren nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. She had been worried about how Xander would react, but now she knew that he was committed to making this work. "But what about my studies?" she asked, her voice still laced with concern. Xander thought for a moment before responding. "We can get you a tutor, or ask your professors for an extension on your assignments," he said. "And if needed, we can look into online courses or part-time study programs that will give you more flexibility." Ren nodded, feeling a sense of hope. She had been worried that she would have to drop out of school, but now she saw that there were options. "And what about your lifestyle?" she asked, her voice still laced with concern. Xander chuckled and shook his head. "I've been thinking about that a lot, actually," he said. "And I've realized that maybe it's time for me to slow down a bit. I can still ride and race, but I can do it more selectively, and make sure I'm there for you and the baby." Ren looked at him skeptically, but Xander could see the hope in her eyes. "I'm serious, Ren," he said. "I want to be a part of this, to be a good partner and father. I'll do whatever it takes to make that happen." As they talked, Ren felt a sense of reassurance wash over her. She knew that Xander was committed to making this work, to being there for her and their future. "So, what do we do next?" she asked, her voice filled with a sense of determination. Xander smiled and pulled her into a kiss, his lips warm and gentle. "Next, we make a plan," he said. "We'll talk to your parents, and my parents, and get everyone on board. And then we'll start making preparations for the baby's arrival." Ren nodded, feeling a sense of excitement and hope. She knew that this would be a challenge, but she also knew that she wasn't alone. Xander was there for her, and together, they could face anything. As they pulled back, Ren looked at Xander, her eyes searching his. "I'm glad you're here with me," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Xander smiled and pulled her close. "I'm not going anywhere," he said. "I'm here for you, and for our baby. Forever."