Bri

*Cambria’s POV*

I find it genuinely fascinating how I still remember exactly how Mia and I met after fourteen years now. Before the start of my sixth-grade year, there was a day when my father took me to school. We met with the principal and were escorted around campus to learn the whereabouts of my classes. Later that day, we joined the sports coach because I already planned to join the Softball team once school began.

Then, on the first day, as I was making my way around campus, I saw her; Mia Nova. To say she was lost and scared was an understatement. I was quickly drawn to her from that moment, and I offered to help her. So, I did just that, and later on that day, she got bullied by the bitch herself, Vivian Sanders. Believe me, I still very much loathe her…

Anyway, let’s get back on track... I remember how fortunate enough I was when I stumbled upon what was happening to Mia, and I wanted nothing more than to help her and keep her safe. Why? At that time, I never had a clue; although, the only thing I was aware of was feeling a strong connection to her.

From that fateful day, we hung out more, got to know each other exceptionally well. The next thing we both realized, we were practically inseparable. Ha, who am I kidding…? We were inseparable. We became the best of friends so fast that it seemed impossible, and I’m glad it wasn’t. To this day, I wouldn’t change a thing. Throughout the years following middle school, Mia went through difficult times… as well as some great times. Her adoptive parents were… let’s see, how I can put this nicely… they were racist assholes that only cared about their image. They only wanted a slave, and that is exactly how they treated Mia.

There were so many days she cried herself to sleep due to things they said and on top of the bullying she received at Vivian’s hands, who lived next door to her. One of the most challenging days she had was when I found out from her that her biological father passed away. She tried to stay strong, but sometimes she held in her pain and let it out on herself... However, at that time, I didn’t know about that part.

Her father, Elias, was on his own level of cruel and so very evil. He wrote a letter to her saying such horrible things that were not true at all. I never saw her cry so much in my life; it broke my heart and I held her in my arms throughout the night. Now that I’m thinking about it, I didn’t know it at the time, but I was falling for her, and I think it may have started that night, even though I was so blind to it.

Now… On a much, much lighter note… I will never forget the day she picked up her first camera and was a fucking natural. I was so shocked at how easily she understood everything about capturing an image. The look on her face, while she was ‘in the zone’ and concentrating, was utterly priceless. It still is, and I always love watching her work. Mia continued to hone her craft through middle school as well as high school. One day, one of her teachers, Mrs. Evans, noticed her talent and kept an eye on Mia’s work.

Then, during our senior year of high school, Mia was offered the lead photographer’s role in the school’s yearbook, and she accepted the job. When she told me about it, I could tell how nervous she was though. Mia did incredibly, and her overall hard work allowed for a scholarship for college as well as an internship for photography. I was, and still am, so fucking proud of her.

The scariest incident that broke my heart was when I found out that she self harms by cutting herself. She did keep it from me, and I never blamed or held it against her. I was always aware that there could be things she hid from me, given her past, and my mom helped me understand why that could be the case. With Brittany’s aid, who we later found out was Vivian’s fraternal twin, she begrudgingly worked together with her sister to post revealing photos of Mia throughout the school’s halls. That’s when I saw her cuts for the first time.

I saw how terrified Mia was as soon as she knew I was near her. She wouldn’t look me in the eye and yelled at me when I tried helping. That was hard to hear because she never raised her voice at me before. I knew she was on edge because Vivian’s bullying caused her so much distress that she ran away from me. As soon as she took off, I called her, and it went straight to voicemail. I didn’t hesitate, and I ran after her.

When I reached her house, I ran upstairs and searched for her. She wasn’t in her room, and that’s when I found her sitting on the edge of the bathtub, thighs covered in blood and looking lost. I looked into her eyes, but it was like she couldn’t see me or focus, then I realized she wasn’t breathing, and it hit me, she had a panic attack. I helped her through it as I did before, and we ended up talking.

Eventually, she agreed to try therapy, and I was so proud of her for seeking help. She informed me that it was helping, and I can tell even to this day that she has grown so much from that moment. Even to this day, she has grown so much and has taken control over her life and emotions and that day was the last one she self harmed. I catch her from time to time writing in the journal she started with Dr. Williams, her therapist. I’m so curious to know what she is writing, but I’ll never read it without her permission, of course.

Now… one of my fondest memories had to have been the first day Mia and I kissed, even though it didn’t start as happy as you’d expect. What happened was, she kissed me and I ran away like a little bitch. I made the worst choice of hiding away because I didn’t know what that kiss meant to either of us.

Unbeknownst to me, Mia was already in love with me, which is why she kissed me in the first place. It makes sense to me now, but what can I say? I am a blonde at heart, so don’t judge me. I found out about her feelings for me soon after, but damn… That kiss was so perfect, and I was so… confused when it occurred too. I guess I needed some time to think, and with the help of my mom, I soon realized I was in love with her. I remember how euphoric I felt when I realized my love for Mia. I know that love is something not everyone gets to experience for themselves, and I’m very fortunate to feel how powerful that emotion is.

During that same week, Vivian tormented her every day, and I still regret letting that happen because I was scared to talk to her about our kiss. When Friday rolled around, I witnessed Mia getting beat up by Vivian, and at that moment... it was like everything instantly went black, and I felt like the only thing that mattered was protecting Mia, no matter the cost. This thought is what honestly terrified me as I had no idea what damage I could’ve inflicted to whoever stepped in my path.

Even today, I recall how I felt seeing Mia bleeding, hurt, and lying on the restroom floor… I became enraged to the point that I felt like a wrathful storm… Let me just say this... witnessing the person you love, in pain and any amount of suffering, it changes you; I didn’t even feel like myself until we locked eyes. I instantly calmed down and felt my body and mind able to take in my surroundings and focus on one vital thing, getting Mia to safety.

With Brittany’s help, who now is one of our closest friends, we were able to get Vivian expelled and we found out that she was getting blackmailed and bullied by Vivian as well. Mia forgave everything Brittany did when she helped Vivian, and I did the same too. That same day, I drove Mia home and confessed my love to her. We became an item, declaring our love for each other, and she eagerly moved in with me.

The next day, I took her out for our first date, and I’ll never forget that night. It was so beautiful, loving, and all I wanted was to show her how much I truly loved her. I remember seeing the same feeling in her eyes and body language that matched the feelings I was emitting whenever I got lost, staring into those deep brown depths. Our relationship kept flourishing as the days kept passing. Not to mention, my parents, Blake and Clara, basically took Mia in as one of their own. I mean, they had always considered her a part of the family even before we started dating. I was so happy she could have parental figures in her life that love and care for her.

One of the most challenging obstacles we went through together was when her biological mother contacted her. My parents, Mia, and I were shopping for our prom outfits when Mia received calls from an unknown number. At first, I thought it could have been Vivian trying to mess with us, but… when I handed Mia the phone, telling her that the woman on the other line asked for her… I should have known something was up... I remember the fear and uncertainty in Mia’s face before she ran to our room and locked herself inside.

I was so fucking scared of so many possible outcomes during this time. I was so worried that I could lose Mia, that maybe she would close herself off to me and not let me in anymore. I never knew how much I needed her until there was a chance that I could have lost her. I remember begging her to let me in, promising her that I would never leave and she never has to be alone again, and after a few minutes… I was so relieved when she let me in. I held her close and just showed her that I wasn’t going anywhere, that I am here to stay.

The next day, Mia received a voicemail from her mom, asking to meet up. Of course, I would go with her; there was no way in hell that I would be letting my girl do this alone. In fact, no one should have to do something of this caliber alone, ya’ know? I’ve always protected her to the best of my ability, and I wasn’t about to stop now. I promised her from that moment on, she would never have to do anything alone, and I kept that promise.

When we left and met up with Ali, she apologized and explained everything that happened and why Mia was kicked out. I was so sad to hear that Mia’s mom was getting abused by her husband. The moment Mia put two and two together, she accepted Ali’s apology, and they rekindled their mother-daughter relationship. I am still so fucking happy for Mia that she has her mom back in her life. I could tell how happy she was when it happened.

When prom came around… everything in our lives was perfect. I remember how sexy and beautifully dressed Mia was, and we had the best time with our friends, Brittany and Sara. When I met Sara and saw her and Brittany together, it made me smile. They were and still are such a cute couple. They remind me of Mia and me, although we are the more adorable couple… just saying. While we slow-danced, I knew how hard I’d fallen for Mia. I was so fucking head over heels for this woman, and I knew I’d give anything for her happiness. I never anticipated that Mia and I could have an even closer connection than we had until we made love for the first time. That intimate act made us so much more connected.

After graduation, Mia, Brittany, Sara, and I attended the same college and lived on campus. I was Sara’s roommate, and Mia was Brittany’s. It was perfect. Our college years were so much better and more enjoyable than anything we had in high school. Being an individual and in charge of our own life is a great feeling. I could see such growth in Mia after we graduated and how she became the woman she’s meant to be, and she still has so much going for her. She is so strong, and she always makes me want to be the best version of myself.

The biggest and happiest moment of my life happened during one of our anniversaries. The day in question marked the third year of our romantic relationship. I remember seeing her so happy and yet so damn nervous during the week leading to our anniversary. It turns out that on this particular night, she asked me a question I knew I would never forget. This question was one that we’d both never, ever forget.

Alas, it’s been about four years since that night, hasn’t it? The best part is; I remember exactly how it happened as if it occurred mere moments ago.

~ FLASHBACK: FOUR YEARS AGO ~

My day today was pretty busy from classes, and I was in the middle of studying for my test when I heard the door to the dorm room unlock, and Sara entered. I watched as she plopped down onto the couch, turning the television on, and she greeted me.

“Hello, sunshine!” She said, using the nickname she gave me years ago.

“S’up, buttercup? I returned, and she laughed, shaking her head when I used her very own nickname.

“Why am I not surprised to see that you’re not dressed for the festivities tonight.” She added, turning her attention to me while looking at the clothes I was wearing.

“I already showered, and I needed to finish studying,” I replied.

“I am under strict orders to bring you to the restaurant by seven, and I don’t plan on being late. It’s now five, and you need to get dressed. I do not intend to make Mia mad at me; she can get scary, even scarier than you!” Sara said, and I smiled. I knew she was right about arriving on time, and I would never want to be late for any date with my girl.

“What nonsense are you going on about? Mia isn’t scary, and she doesn’t even say anything to scare people.” I stated, amused at how our conversation changed.

“That’s the point!! Her silence is scary as hell. You may be intimidating and all, but Mia, she’s calculating. A simple look, and she could stare into your soul and know all of your deepest darkest secrets!” Sara admitted dramatically, making me chuckle. She may have a point. Mia is very good at reading people, especially those she loves and cares about.

“Touché,” I said, and she nodded in agreement. I think I am done studying for the night. It’s time to get ready. I closed my textbook, put away my index cards, and walked to my closet, rummaging through it and trying to find the perfect outfit for tonight’s anniversary date.

“Should I wear a black or red dress?” I yelled, wanting to get Sara’s opinion on the matter.

“Let’s see… Definitely wear the black dress along with a matching black thong and bra. You also need to wear the heels we got two weeks ago. Don’t forget to put on some light makeup, straighten your hair if it’s needed, and make sure it’s brushed thoroughly; it should look silky smooth.” She casually ordered as soon as she stood right behind me. Maybe I should have taken notes, but damn... Sara sure knows her stuff.

“Thank you for all of your help. Sometimes I’m curious as to how you do this kind of stuff so easily. It takes me a bit longer to decide on what to wear.” I wondered, shaking my head, and I heard her laugh.

“In all honesty, I have no idea. I guess it just comes to me. Like you, with sports, Brittany with her damn vocabulary, and Mia with her photography,” She explained, and I had to agree with her. She’s right. Each of us truly has something that we do, which comes naturally. Before I got changed, I pulled my phone out of my pocket and sent Mia a text.

Bri: “I already said this to you today, but… Happy Anniversary. I love you, babygirl, and I miss you like crazy. I can’t wait to spend the evening with you tonight.”

Mia: “I know exactly how you feel, love. Happy Anniversary to you too. I love you more, and miss you so much. Tonight is going to be perfect because I get to spend it with you.”

Bri: “God, you’re perfect. I’ll see you soon, yeah?”

Mia: “Yes. Yes, you will. You, baby, are the perfect one.”

After placing my phone on the charger, I removed all of my clothing and decided to wear the black dress. I put on my black thong, a bra, the dress, and my heels. I made sure to retrieve the engagement ring I purchased months ago from its hiding spot and placed it into my purse. I know I want to marry Mia. I just haven’t found the perfect time to do it. Who knows? Maybe tonight’s the night. I applied a modest amount of makeup, brushed my hair, and stepped out into the room for Sara to see. I hope she likes it.

“Don’t take this the wrong way, but… You look hot; I know Mia is going to love it.” She stated, and I smiled. You’re right. Mia is going to love it.

I made sure I had everything I needed, and after an additional twenty minutes had passed, we were ready to leave. We walked to Sara’s vehicle, got inside, and buckled our seatbelts. She checked her phone, smiled, and texted something. I assume that message was to Brittany, and once she put her phone down, she started the car.

“Did you bring the ring?” Sara asked as soon as we began driving.

“Yes, I did. I always bring it with me ever since we went to purchase it together.” I replied, and my mind thought of Mia and how wonderful it would be to propose to her one day.

“Are you scared of proposing? Is that why you haven’t done it yet?” She inquired, sounding curious, and I took a minute to figure out the right way to answer her.

“It’s not exactly fear that has halted me. It’s more of finding the right time to pop the question. I mean, yes, of course, I am scared… who wouldn’t be? It’s a nerve-wracking situation, but… for me, it’s a matter of making it perfect for Mia. This kind of thing only happens with the person you’re meant to be with, and I’d hate to screw it up in any way, shape, or form.” I answered, hearing her hum in agreement before she spoke again.

“Mia will say yes to you, don’t worry. I see the way she looks at you every day. That’s love. Not to mention, I know every time you text her or think of her… your face lights up, and it’s like you shine the brightest, hence the nickname I gave you. It fits.” She finished, and I was already smiling as soon as she mentioned Mia’s name, quickly proving the point she was making.

“Thank you for saying that,” I stated.

“Anytime, sunshine,” She replied with a wink, and I smiled.

“What about you and Brit?” I asked, and she sighed.

“I’m so scared and nervous, but all I want is to spend my life with her. She completes me, ya’ know?” Sara answered, quickly glancing at me, and I gave her a firm nod. I know exactly how she feels.

“Yes, I do know what you mean,” I agreed.

“When the time is right, you’ll do it, and she will say yes. Don’t you worry about that,” I promised.

“Thank you,” She said.

“Of course, buttercup,” I stated, causing her to shake her head, smiling at our usual banter.

It didn’t take long for us to arrive at the restaurant, and when we walked inside, we were greeted by the hostess. After providing her with Mia’s name, she escorted us, apparently leading Sara and me to the patio area. The closer we got, the more I noticed how impressive everything was. Having lit candles and rose petals strategically placed along the walkway was something I never expected to see. Everything is so beautifully prepared. I wonder if Mia did all of this. The moment I opened the door, I saw Mia and made my way to her instantly.

“Hey you,” I said to my girl as I pulled her into a tight embrace.

“Hey, baby,” She replied and returned the hug just as tightly. We held each other close until she pulled away slightly to look in my eyes, and then she spoke up again.

“You look so beautiful... how did I get so lucky?” Mia added, making me blush furiously, and I quickly hid my face in the crook of her neck in order to hide my flushed face from her. She always finds a way to make me feel so goddamn special and loved. I still can’t believe how Mia can make me feel so many emotions with such simple words. She may say she feels lucky, but… I am definitely the lucky one to have her in my life.

“Are you ever going to stop making me blush like this?” I mumbled, causing Mia to giggle because the vibrations of my voice tickled her neck. I felt her shake her head, and I smiled.

“I wouldn’t be doing my job if you stopped blushing, silly,” She answered, smiling so happily, and all I could think about was wanting her lips on mine. Placing my hands on either side of her face, I pulled her to me and kissed her. A few moments later, each of us took our seats and talked amongst ourselves before the waiter approached us.

“Hello ladies, my name is Oliver, and I will be your waiter this evening. The specialty-dining package that Ms. Nova purchased includes a four-course meal consisting of hors-d’oeuvres, appetizers, the main dish, and dessert. As everyone finishes their food, we will automatically bring the next meal and refill any drinks, if necessary. There is a menu card on each of your tables that will give you the courses’ details. I hope each of you has an excellent evening and enjoy the food.” The waiter finished his speech and left for what I assumed was to pick up our first course and bring it to us. Although I wasn’t sure how long that could take.

“Goodness, Mia. You sure went all out for our anniversary tonight, huh?” I said as soon as the waiter was out of earshot.

“Of course! Everything for you, baby,” She replied and smiled at me as I reached my hand over to hers and held it. I love having Mia close to me. A simple hand-holding gesture like this causes my stomach to fill with fast fluttering butterflies and makes my heart feel full of love, warmth, and happiness. Not even a minute passed before Brittany read the card on the table. I looked over at her, curious myself as to what we’d be eating tonight.

“My mouth is already watering! I cannot believe we are about to have Rustic Tuscan Pepper Bruschetta, a Classic Caesar Salad, Balsamic Glazed Lamb Chops with Lemon Pepper Roasted Broccoli, and Vanilla Crème Brulee. I think I am already gaining weight from saying each item, and I don’t even care! BRING IT ON!” She dramatically said to no one in particular, causing each one of us to erupt in a fit of laughter. She’s so fucking silly, I swear. In all honesty, I am happy she made amends and helped get rid of Vivian that day. Brittany has become an excellent, close friend, and I trust her… more importantly, I trust her with Mia, knowing that she will never hurt her again.

“Nice one, babe,” Sara stated, praising her girlfriend. Speaking of Sara, she and I are so close, just like my girl and Brittany are with each other. I am happy having these two goofballs in my life. Mia then looked over at me with a heartfelt smile on her face, though my own smile had never left. I mean, how could my smile ever leave? Especially when I have everything I need in my life. I love seeing how happy she is right now. Damn, she’s so breathtaking and sexy.

~

During dinner, I couldn’t help the glances I was giving Mia; my eyes kept finding her merely because I am so in love with her. Every time our eyes met, my heart rate increased, and I felt so content. I knew deep down that I was at a point in my life where I was meant to be. After all these years together, I was still in love with her, and the love I had kept rising to new heights. Each day, I kept finding little things about her that made me fall deeper in love. Eventually, dinner was over roughly thirty minutes later.

I glanced over at Brittany and Sara when, out of nowhere, the song “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” by Bryan Adams began playing from their direction. Why are they playing that song? I smiled when I remembered when Mia and I slow-danced to this song at prom; it had become our song. The smile remained on my face until I looked at Mia; she looked nervous. I hope she’s okay and that nothing is wrong.

“Babygirl, are you okay? You seem nervous,” I quickly asked, and I was slightly confused as soon as I saw her smile at what I said. I think she liked that I can still notice her feelings, even if it is a glance. It’s the only thing that makes sense, because… well, I have always watched her and made sure she is okay and understood. It’s one of my favorite things to do, of course.

“You’re the only one who understands me, even more than myself. I am thoroughly convinced that you can read my mind, and you always prove me right. You are the only one I can share everything and anything with... without fear, doubt, or worries. I treasure the immediate happiness I get when I see your smile... and don’t even get me started on what your smirk does to me.” Mia seemed to pause this speech of hers just for a few seconds, her eyes never leaving mine. The smile etched on my face was one born from her words, and I lifted my hand to wipe any tears that had already fallen. If she continues, I know for a fact that I will keep on crying. I can’t help it when she says such things to me while looking into my eyes. When I finished wiping the tears away, Mia held my hand in hers and intertwined our fingers before she continued speaking.

“Baby, every time I see you, I fall in love with you over and over again. You are my everything. Meeting you in middle school had to be fate. Becoming your friend was my choice, but... falling in love with you... that was always beyond my control, and I wouldn’t change it for anything. I love you for all that you are... I love you for all that you have been in my life, and I love you for all you are yet to be. Always have, always will.” Mia finished speaking to me, and I could tell that every word she spoke was from her heart. Everything she has said to me… it’s almost like she is reading my mind. My heart will always belong to her, and I can’t fucking wait to make this woman my wife and love her until the end of time itself.

She never broke eye contact with me, and it was like we were lost in our own little world, and everything stood utterly still. At the end of her speech to me, I saw that she was teary-eyed. I, on the other hand, was allowing every single tear to fall freely. I am not even going to fight the tears anymore. My girl will just say another beautiful thing to me anyway and produce more. It’s just another thing I love so much about her.

Mia then smiled, stood up from her chair, and I watched her every move, just like I have done ever since we met. I will always watch her because I never want to miss anything. She wiped the remaining tears away and caressed my cheek for a few seconds, and my skin tingled wherever she touched. My goodness, she is so amazing… everything about her… she’s so perfect for me. The moment the love of my life knelt by my side, I gasped, bringing my hand to cover my mouth. Is this really happening?!

I gazed into her gorgeous brown eyes, and she smiled ever so lovingly at me. Mia then pulled a small box from her jacket pocket and opened it, revealing a magnificent ring. My lip trembled before I presented her with my signature smile... The same smile that I knew she adored, loved and needed in her life. The smile only meant for her. I watched as she took a deep breath. She always does that when she’s nervous and needs to calm herself down and focus…

“Cambria Clover Jones, will you make me the happiest woman on earth and allow me the greatest honor of calling you, my wife...?” Mia asked. This is the sign I was waiting for, and I know exactly how to answer her.

As soon as Mia said those words, I was overcome with so many emotions. I wanted to cry, and kiss her, to laugh and just hold her close to me. I was already brought to so many tears by her beautiful speech. There was no way I could stop myself from standing, helping her up and pulling her into a tight embrace. She wrapped her arms around me, and I did the same to her. I need her close to me right now.

I pulled away a couple of minutes later and leaned my forehead on hers, which made her chuckle. We looked into each other’s eyes before I placed my finger under her chin, bringing her close and capturing her lips with mine in a passionate kiss. I could feel her melt into the kiss, wrapping her arms around my neck, deepening it further. Just as she always loves to do. Then, I heard a not-so-subtle wolf whistle, which brought us out of our kiss. Thanks, Brittany. As soon as I looked at Mia, I could already see the blush creeping up on her face. She’s so adorable.

“Is that a yes?” She hesitantly asked me, smiling nervously. You know damn well it’s a yes, but… I have a surprise for you, and I cannot wait to give it to you.

“How about I make it perfectly clear, yeah?” I replied to her, and her eyes never left mine. We both sat back down, and I reached into my purse that hung on my chair, pulling out the engagement ring that I purchased months ago.

I put my hand with the box containing the ring onto the table, and I watched as her attention left me and found my surprise. As soon as I opened the box and Mia saw the ring, she began to cry and nodded. I swear my heart swooned even further when she said yes to me just now. Brittany and Sara were now cheering and congratulating us, which made this moment that much richer.

“I should have known you’d propose the same day I would… You’re perfect, baby. I love you so much,” Mia said as she grabbed her chair and pulled it right next to mine so that we could sit side by side.

“I love you more, my beautiful fiancé… You’ve made me the happiest woman in the world, knowing now that I will be spending the rest of my life with you as your wife.” I replied and tenderly grabbed Mia’s left hand, sliding the ring on her finger; she did the same for me, with her ring.

Brittany and Sara made arrangements to stay in Mia’s dorm room, while Mia and I stayed in mine. When we parted ways from the restaurant, Sara pulled me aside, telling me that they planned this and wanted us to have privacy to celebrate. We said our usual goodbyes to our dear friends, and they left together. Mia drove us back to our dorms, and I held her hand in mine the whole way, loving the way she caressed it.

We made love for the rest of the night, so much so that I didn’t know what time it was when we finally passed out. All I could remember was the lovely feeling of safety when Mia’s arms were around my body, holding me close.

My life is only just beginning, and I can’t wait to marry you, Mia Nova.

~ END OF FLASHBACK ~