⭐ PART III — The Great Plains, The Great Unknown

States 21–30

21. Minnesota — Where They Learn to Be Still

They walked around the University of Minnesota, then sat by the Mississippi River. Renee rested her head on his shoulder. David wrapped an arm around her.

No words. Just warmth. Just belonging.

22. Iowa — Where They Laugh Until They Cry

Iowa City surprised them — cozy, literary, alive. They went to a poetry reading where the microphone squeaked every few minutes.

Renee laughed so hard she cried. David wiped her tears with his thumb. She kissed him in the middle of the bookstore.

23. Missouri — Where They Fight

In St. Louis, under the Arch, they had their first real argument. Something small. Something stupid. But it hurt.

Renee walked away first. David followed.

They sat on a bench, both quiet. Finally she whispered, “I don’t want to lose this.” He took her hand. “You won’t.”

24. Arkansas — Where They Heal

At the University of Arkansas, they walked slowly, fingers intertwined. In the Ozarks, they found a quiet overlook.

Renee leaned into him. “I’m sorry,” she said. He kissed her hair. “So am I.”

The wind carried their forgiveness away.

25. Louisiana — Where They Let Go

New Orleans wrapped them in music and heat. They danced in the street, Renee spinning under David’s arm.

She laughed, breathless. He kissed her under a balcony dripping with flowers. Everything felt alive.

26. Texas — Where They Feel Like a Team

Texas was big — too big — but they tackled it together. At UT Austin, they wandered the campus, then watched bats fly from the Congress Avenue Bridge.

Renee squeezed his hand. “We’re good together,” she said. David nodded. “We’re better than good.”

27. Oklahoma — Where They Share Secrets

They lay on the grass near the University of Oklahoma, staring at the stars. Renee told him things she’d never told anyone. David did the same.

They fell asleep holding hands.

28. Kansas — Where They Feel Small in a Good Way

The plains stretched forever. Renee stood on a hill, wind whipping her hair, and whispered, “The world is so big.” David wrapped his arms around her. “And we’re in it together.”

29. Nebraska — Where They Make a Promise

At the University of Nebraska, they found a quiet courtyard. Renee took his hands. “Promise me we won’t run from hard things.” David kissed her palms. “I promise.”

30. South Dakota — Where They Stand Strong

They visited Mount Rushmore, but it was the Badlands that stole their breath. Renee stood on a ridge, wind fierce around her. David held her waist to steady her.

She whispered, “I’m not afraid with you.”