Chapter 79

Yoko

Something nudges against my cheek. I groan, burying my face deeper into my pillow.

Another nudge. Then a wet nose pressing against my jaw.

I crack open one eye, already knowing who the culprit is.

Ham sits on my bed, his tail flicking lazily, his familiar smug expression plastered across his fluffy little face.

I sigh, voice muffled against my pillow. "You're so annoying."

Ham responds by pressing his cold little nose against my cheek again.

I groan dramatically, throwing an arm over my face. "Why are you even waking me up? I don't have school anymore, Ham. I'm free."

Then it hits me.

Wait. Graduation.

...Oh, shit.

I shoot up from my bed, eyes wide, brain catching up at an embarrassingly slow pace.

Ham just sits there, flicking his tail, looking way too satisfied with himself.

"Okay, okay, I'm up," I grumble, rubbing my face. "Happy now?"

Ham blinks at me, completely unbothered, before hopping off my bed like he's personally responsible for getting me to my graduation on time.

I stretch, letting out a long yawn before dragging myself to the bathroom. The last thing I want is to look half-dead on my own graduation day.

I shower quickly, the warm water waking me up properly, before stepping out and wrapping myself in a towel.

Time to get ready.

I pick out a nice black dress, simple but elegant, something that looks good but isn't trying too hard. Graduation robes will cover most of it anyway, but still.

I sit at my vanity, tying my hair up, leaving a few soft strands framing my face. A bit of light makeup—just enough to look fresh, not like I'm about to walk a runway.

Ham watches me the entire time.

I narrow my eyes at him through the mirror. "Why are you staring at me like that?"

He smiles. Actually smiles.

I sigh. "Unbelievable."

Once I'm done, I grab my bag, making my way downstairs.

I set Ham's food and water in his usual spot, ruffling his head as he starts eating.

"Be good, okay?" I tell him.

He just flicks his tail like he owns the whole house.

Figures.

I turn to find my dad already waiting in the living room, dressed smartly, holding a cup of coffee.

He looks up when he sees me, a slow grin spreading across his face.

"Well, well," he says, eyeing me up and down with an exaggerated nod of approval. "Would you look at that? My little girl is actually graduating."

I roll my eyes. "Dad, please."

"Should I be emotional?" he fake-sniffles. "Should I start making a speech? Maybe shed a single proud tear?"

I groan. "I take it back. Don't talk."

He chuckles, shaking his head as he sets his coffee down. "Alright, alright, let's go. Wouldn't want to be late for the grand farewell to MeowingHam High."

I huff out a small laugh, following him out the door.

One last time. One last drive to school. One final day as a high school student.

As I slide into the passenger seat, my dad starts the car, pulling out of the driveway.

And just like that, we're on our way.

To the end of an era.

...

The moment Dad pulls into the school parking lot, I already see the chaos unfolding.

Students are everywhere—some rushing, some already taking endless pictures, some screeching in excitement, and a handful of parents standing around looking either proud or exhausted.

The air is buzzing with anticipation.

"I see the energy levels are at an all-time high," Dad comments, amused as he parks the car.

I huff out a laugh. "Yeah, welcome to graduation day."

We step out, and immediately, I hear someone screaming my name from a distance.

"YOKOOOOOOO!"

I don't even get to turn before I'm tackled from behind.

"GAH—"

I stumble forward, barely catching myself before I faceplant.

Marissa is clinging onto me like a koala, bouncing excitedly. "WE'RE GRADUATING!"

I wheeze, prying her arms off me. "Marissa, let me breathe—"

She finally lets go, beaming. "Sorry, sorry. But aren't you excited?! No more exams! No more stress! We're FREE!"

I grin, shaking my head. "Yeah, yeah, I know. It still feels surreal."

"Surreal?" she repeats, hands on her hips. "Babe, this is the best day ever. I'm about to throw my textbooks into a bonfire."

I snort. "You don't even own textbooks. You just steal mine."

"Details," she waves off.

Dad chuckles beside me, shaking his head at our antics. "Alright, kiddo," he says, turning to me. "This is where I leave you."

I nod, suddenly feeling a little weird about it.

Because, this is it. The last time I'll be walking into this school as a student.

He ruffles my hair lightly. "See you in a bit, yeah?"

"Yeah," I say, smoothing my hair back down as he walks off towards the parents' seating area.

Marissa nudges my arm. "Let's go. The others are already inside."

We head towards the main school building, weaving through the sea of students and excited chatter.

Inside, the designated graduation hall is massive, filled with rows and rows of neatly arranged chairs. The stage is set, banners are up, the school crest proudly displayed in the background.

And at the far end of the hall—

I spot Big and Ink.

Ink, who looks exceptionally calm—which is already suspicious—and Big, who is waving at us like a lunatic.

"Took you long enough!" Big calls out as we approach.

Ink smirks. "Had to fight through the crowd?"

"More like Marissa almost choked me out in excitement," I deadpan.

Ink chuckles. "Sounds about right."

Then—someone shoves a graduation gown into my arms.

"Time to suit up!" Big grins.

I stare at it and immediately regret my entire existence. Because this—this is where the real struggle begins.

I unfold the gown with great reluctance, already seeing way too many buttons, a sash, and fabric that is far too complicated for something that should be simple.

I attempt to put my arms through the sleeves, but somehow, I get tangled.

"...Okay, wait." I blink. "Why is this like a damn puzzle?"

Marissa, Ink, and Big watch in amusement.

"You good?" Marissa asks, biting her lip to keep from laughing.

I glare at her. "No. Help me."

Big snickers. "You're struggling with a robe. I'm concerned."

"Shut up."

Ink sighs, stepping forward. "Come here, dummy."

I sulk as she untangles the mess I've made. "You literally just had to slide your arms through," she points out.

I cross my arms. "It's deceptively difficult."

Big cackles. "You're gonna be the first person in history to fail wearing a graduation robe."

"Do you want me to fail removing it and strangle you instead?"

"Okay, okay!" Big backs up, still laughing. "Let's get this show on the road!"

Ink straightens my sash, fixes my collar, and then steps back with a nod. "There. Now you look like you actually belong here."

I huff. "Rude."

Marissa grins, throwing an arm around my shoulder. "Ready to walk that stage?"

I take a deep breath, glancing around at everyone—at my best friends, all dressed in their gowns, all buzzing with excitement.

And for the first time, it really hits me.

This is it. The end of high school. The end of an era.

I nod. "Yeah," I exhale. "I'm ready."

...

I swear to God, if this graduation ceremony drags on any longer, I might actually die in my seat.

We've been sitting here for what feels like an eternity. The speeches were long, the new principal went on about "the bright future ahead," and some overachieving student just gave a valedictorian speech that was definitely way too dramatic for a high school graduation.

Ink, Marissa, and Big are all fidgeting.

"How much longer?" Big whispers, slouching in his chair.

Ink sighs, checking the programme. "Too long."

Marissa groans softly, muttering, "I swear, I could've taken a nap and still woken up before my name is called."

I just exhale sharply, resting my chin on my palm. And then—naturally—my eyes start searching.

For her.

I scan the front section, past the school's admin, past the other teachers I don't really care about, and then—

There.

Sitting exactly as I expect—Cool, collected, unbothered by the world.

Faye.

She's seated in the teachers' area, her expression as neutral as ever, her usual black slacks and button-up crisp and perfectly in place.

Her posture? Straight-backed, effortless. Her face? Unreadable.

Except I know her too well now. Because even from here, I can tell.

She's watching. She's waiting.

And when my eyes find hers, just for a second—the smallest, softest hint of a smile tugs at her lips.

And my entire body warms. I look away immediately, swallowing hard, my face definitely heating up.

Shit.

Ink leans in close, whispering near my ear. "Found your girlfriend, huh?"

I snap my head towards her, glowering. "Shut up," I whisper back.

Ink just grins knowingly. "You're staring at her like she's the main attraction of this ceremony."

I huff. "Because she is."

Ink chokes on a laugh. Then, finally—finally—the names start being called.

"Oh, thank God," Big mutters under his breath.

We all straighten up.

The ceremony is finally moving, and soon, it'll be our turn.

...

The line is moving.

Slowly. Painfully slowly.

We're all standing, waiting for our turn, shuffling forward every time a name is called.

It should be a serious moment, a sentimental one, but of course—Marissa ruins it.

"What if I fart while taking the cert?" she whispers, dead serious.

Ink and I whip our heads toward her, horrified. "What the actual hell, Marissa?" I hiss.

Ink groans, rubbing her temples. "WHY—WHY—would you even say that?"

Marissa shrugs. "I don't know! I got nervous! My stomach feels weird!"

Big wheezes behind us, cackling like an idiot.

"Oh my God," I whisper, pressing my fingers to my forehead. "Shut up, Marissa. Just hold it in."

Ink glares at her. "If you embarrass us on stage, I swear—"

"Okay, okay!" Marissa waves us off, but she's clearly trying not to laugh.

Before we can continue berating her, another name is called. And then—it's us.

One by one, we step forward.

I take a deep breath, straightening my posture as I follow the line up the stage.

And then, the moment I've been waiting for all day.

"Yoko Apasra."

I step forward.

And as I do, I let my eyes flicker to the teachers' section, to her.

Faye is watching. Cool, composed—but her eyes follow me.

And I swear, I can see it.

The smallest hint of pride in her gaze.

My chest tightens warmly.

I exhale, stepping onto the stage, shaking hands with the principal. I accept my certificate. I glance at the crowd.

At my dad. At my friends. At her.

And I think—

We made it.

...

The ceremony is finally, finally over.

And now? It's chaos.

Students, parents, teachers—everyone is flooding the front of the school, gathering in excited groups, taking photos like it's some kind of Hollywood premiere.

I barely make it out of the crowd alive, still clutching my certificate, before I get dragged into endless photos.

"One more!" Marissa grins, throwing an arm over my shoulder.

Ink, Big, and I sigh in unison, but we pose anyway, flashing smiles at the camera.

A dozen photos later, my dad appears, cutting through my friends like a VIP guest.

"Yoko!" he calls, his face beaming with pride.

I turn—and suddenly there's a bouquet of flowers in my arms. I blink. "Dad?"

"Congratulations, kiddo," he grins, ruffling my hair like I'm still five.

I groan, ducking away. "Dad, please. I have makeup on!"

Ink snickers. "Who knew Yoko's Dad was such a softie?"

My dad just laughs, shaking his head. "Of course I'm a softie! My daughter just graduated!"

The moment is warm, overwhelming, and I feel my chest swell with emotions. But then, the atmosphere shifts. Out of the corner of my eye—I see her.

Faye.

Walking toward me.

And my heart—God, my heart does something weird.

She moves easily through the crowd, her usual cool, composed demeanor intact, but, she's happy. Not just content—but truly, undeniably happy.

And as she comes closer, I feel something stir inside me.

Memories.

The first time I saw her in class—hated her, even.

Her harsh critiques. Her impossible assignments. Her relentless perfectionism.

And then, the moments after.

The understanding. The patience. The gentleness beneath all that coldness. The way she challenged me. The way she made me better. The way she loved me.

We've been through so much.

And now—

She's here, for me.

My chest tightens, my grip on the bouquet tightening slightly as she finally stops in front of me.

For a second—just a second—I see it. The way her lips twitch slightly, like she's trying not to smile too much.

And then, in that low, smooth voice, she murmurs, "Happy graduation, baby."

I don't even know what to say.

Because right now, standing in front of Faye, dressed in my graduation gown, holding onto a bouquet of flowers my dad gave me—

I just feel so, so happy.

My cheeks burn, my heart pounds, but I still manage to smile up at her, shy yet full of warmth.

She tilts her head slightly, those sharp eyes softened just for me, and I can already tell—she's proud.

And that makes me even more shy.

"Stop looking at me like that," I mumble, looking away.

Faye just chuckles, stepping closer. "Like what?"

"Like you're about to say something embarrassing," I grumble.

She smirks. "But I haven't said anything yet."

I glare at her, but before I can retaliate, my dad's gruff voice cuts in. "Alright, alright," he says, clapping a hand on my shoulder, "we need pictures, don't we?"

Oh, right. Pictures.

Because how could I graduate without taking a million photos to immortalize the moment?

Faye doesn't even protest—she just goes along with it.

We take a picture together first, just the two of us, standing close. I'm grinning, and Faye—God, she actually smiles too, just a little, her eyes filled with so much fondness.

Then, we take another one with my dad, who insists that Faye 'join the family picture' because, and I quote, "Well, she's practically family now."

I choke.

Faye, on the other hand? Completely unfazed. She just nods, smirking slightly before throwing an arm around me for the photo.

I'm never going to survive this day.

Once the pictures are done, my dad checks the time and sighs. "I better head back. I have a flight early tomorrow."

I nod, adjusting my bouquet. "Okay, Dad. Thanks for coming."

He ruffles my hair again, despite my protests, before turning to Faye. "You're taking her somewhere, aren't you?"

Faye nods easily, slipping her hands into her pockets. "Of course."

My dad gives her a long look, then nods in approval. "Take care of her, alright?"

Faye's lips twitch. "Always."

What the fuck.

My dad grins, gives me one last hug, then finally heads off, disappearing into the crowd. And then—it's just me and Faye.

She watches my dad leave before turning to me, her expression calm but intent. "I have somewhere to bring you. To celebrate your graduation properly."

I blink. "You do?"

She smirks. "Of course I do. You think I'd let today end just like that?"

I roll my eyes, but my heart is already fluttering. "Fine, fine. Let me just go tell my friends first."

She nods, watching as I quickly jog back to my group.

I find them still laughing, talking, taking pictures, and I slip in, clearing my throat. "Guys, I'm heading off first."

Ink raises an eyebrow. "With someone, huh?"

Marissa whistles. "Damn, already ditching us already?"

I groan. "I'll see you guys later, okay?"

Big waves dramatically. "Go forth, graduate! Enjoy your romantic night!"

I flip them off as they cackle, before finally making my way back to Faye.

And then, she does something that makes my breath hitch.

She offers me her hand.

Right here. Right in front of everyone—Students, teachers, other staff.

She doesn't even care. She just looks at me, waiting, completely unbothered, like it's the most natural thing in the world.

And suddenly—I get it. I get what this means.

This is her statement.

This is her saying—No more hiding. No more sneaking glances in hallways. No more brushing shoulders like strangers. No more walking away from each other when people are watching.

We are together.

Finally. In the open.

I exhale softly, my heart so full, before slipping my fingers into hers, feeling the warmth of her palm, the solidness of her grip.

Faye's lips curve slightly. Then, still holding my hand, she leads me toward her car.

The moment I settle into the passenger seat of Faye's car, I'm grinning like an idiot.

Not that I can help it.

I mean, come on. This is literally the best day ever.

Graduation? Done. Officially finished with high school? Check. Faye openly holding my hand in front of everyone? Hell yes.

And now, she's taking me somewhere, acting all mysterious and smug about it.

I squeeze her hand, glancing at her as she drives. "So... where are we going?"

Faye smirks. "You'll see."

I squint at her. "That's not an answer."

She chuckles, eyes still on the road. "It is. You just don't like it."

I groan, dramatically leaning back in my seat. "Faye."

"Yoko."

I huff. "You're annoying."

"And you love it."

"Unfortunately."

She laughs, squeezing my hand in return, and honestly—I don't even care where we're going anymore.

I just love being here, like this, with her.

We drive for a while, the sun already setting, casting everything in hues of warm orange and deep purple.

It's peaceful.

And then—we slow down.

I blink, sitting up as Faye pulls into a driveway.

A nice house comes into view, nestled in a quiet, open space near where we always stargaze.

I immediately turn to her, eyes wide. "Are we going for a picnic again?"

Faye snorts. "No, my love."

"Then what—"

She just grins, shutting off the engine, already stepping out.

Before I can question her further, she's opening my door, taking my hand as she leads me towards the entrance.

I feel like I'm walking into a trap.

A good trap, but still.

My suspicion grows when she opens the door and gestures for me to go in first.

I step inside, and suddenly—

P O P ! ! !

Confetti bursts into the air, loud cheers erupting all around me.

"HAPPY GRADUATION, YOKO!!!"

I stumble back in shock because, what the fuck—?! I blink rapidly, trying to process the scene in front of me.

There's a big-ass banner with my name on it. A table full of food. Streamers. Decorations. And literally EVERYONE I know standing there grinning at me.

Ink, Marissa, Big—my whole gang of friends. My dad, standing off to the side with a proud smile. And, of course, Engfa.

Who is currently holding two party poppers and looks way too pleased with herself.

"OH MY GOD," I gasp. "WHAT IS THIS?!"

Engfa laughs loudly, throwing an arm around my shoulder. "What does it look like, dumbass? It's a graduation party!"

"I—WHAT—HOW—"

I turn to Faye, still reeling, eyes wide.

She just smirks, crossing her arms. "Surprise, my love."

I gape at her. "You—you planned this?!"

"Of course."

I stare.

Then I groan, burying my face in my hands. "I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS."

Marissa laughs. "Oh, believe it, Yoko. Your girlfriend really went all out."

Ink nods. "Yeah, honestly? It's kind of scary how well she pulled this off without you suspecting a thing."

I turn back to Faye, still overwhelmed. "You're insane."

Faye shrugs, smirking. "And yet, you love me."

I groan again, but I can't stop smiling. Because this? This is amazing. And I don't even know what I did to deserve this.

Before I can even process everything, two figures come crashing into me.

"YOKO, YOU LUCKY LITTLE SHIT!!!"

Marissa screeches, throwing her arms around me in an exaggerated hug, almost knocking me over. Big isn't far behind, grabbing my shoulders dramatically.

"YOU MEAN TO TELL ME," he gasps, "THAT ALL THIS TIME—ALL THESE MONTHS—YOUR 'MYSTERIOUS GIRLFRIEND' WAS LITERALLY OUR ENGLISH LITERATURE TEACHER?!"

I groan, face instantly heating up.

Oh, here we go.

"Guys, please—"

"OH NO, NO, NO," Marissa cuts me off, shaking me by the shoulders. "You don't get to 'guys, please' us! WHAT THE FUCK, YOKO?!"

"HOW COULD YOU KEEP THIS FROM US?!" Big fake sobs, clutching his chest like he's been personally betrayed.

"I LITERALLY SAT THROUGH HER LESSONS!" Marissa yells. "LISTENED TO HER TALK ABOUT SHAKESPEARE AND POETRY AND WHATEVER ELSE—MEANWHILE, SHE WAS SECRETLY DATING YOUR LITTLE GAY ASS?!"

I groan, burying my face in my hands. "Oh my god, stopppp—"

But they do not stop.

They just switch gears and start dramatically falling over each other, fake-crying about betrayal.

"WE COULD'VE HELPED YOU SNEAK AROUND!" Big wails. "WE COULD'VE GIVEN YOU CODE NAMES!"

"I CAN'T BELIEVE WE ONLY FOUND OUT TODAY, AT GRADUATION, LIKE SOME BIG REVEAL IN A DRAMA SERIES!" Marissa gasps.

And then, of course—Ink joins in. Except hers is even worse.

She crosses her arms, raising an eyebrow at me, unimpressed. "Yeah, well. At least you guys found out today. Me? I had to keep this damn secret for MONTHS."

"Ohhhh shit, that's right," Marissa gasps, turning to Ink.

Big's eyes widen in betrayal. "INK, YOU KNEW?!"

Ink shrugs, completely nonchalant. "Of course, I knew. I've literally walked in on them before. Did you guys not wonder why I stopped complaining about our literature teacher after a while?"

Marissa and Big both turn slowly to look at me. Their expressions? Pure, unfiltered judgment.

I groan again, hiding behind my hands. "Kill me."

"YOU MEAN TO TELL ME," Big exclaims, voice rising, "THAT INK KNEW BEFORE US?!"

Ink snickers. "Obviously."

"THIS IS A BETRAYAL."

"A CRIME, EVEN!"

"I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS, YOKO."

"HOW COULD YOU DO THIS TO US?!"

This is actual hell.

I turn to Faye, pleadingly. She just watches from the sidelines, arms crossed, amused as hell.

She is NOT helping me.

I narrow my eyes. "You're enjoying this, aren't you?"

Faye tilts her head, smirking. "Immensely."

I sputter. "You—you're supposed to be on MY SIDE!"

Faye chuckles, completely unbothered. "But, my love, they do make a good point. You did keep it from them for a very long time."

"NOT HELPING."

Big claps his hands together. "Alright, you know what? You have a LOT to make up for, Miss Apasra. We demand every single detail of your forbidden romance."

"Yes, yes, tell us everything," Marissa nods enthusiastically.

Ink smirks. "Oh, I'm actually interested in this part."

I gasp, pointing at her. "TRAITOR!"

She shrugs. "I suffered in silence for months. Let me have this."

I stare at them. Then I turn to Faye again but she just raises an eyebrow.

I sigh. I am never escaping this.

...

I'm still recovering from the merciless teasing when I realise something.

This isn't just some random rented place. This house—this beautiful, quiet house near the stargazing spot—why are we here?

I frown slightly, looking around. The excitement from earlier has settled, and now—something feels different.

The atmosphere shifts.

One moment, everyone is loud, chaotic, laughing. The next, there's a hushed silence, like they all know something I don't.

I blink.

Wait... why are they all suddenly so quiet?

"Uh..." I clear my throat, looking around. "Why does it feel like something is about to happen?"

No one answers.

Big is grinning like an idiot. Marissa is bouncing on the balls of her feet. Ink just smirks knowingly, arms crossed. Engfa, of course, looks way too pleased with herself.

And then—I feel it.

A warm hand slipping into mine.

Faye.

My girlfriend—my person—the love of my life—is standing right in front of me.

And when I look at her—when I really look at her—I forget how to breathe.

Because her eyes, God, her eyes. There's something in them.

Something soft. Something intense. Something that makes my entire world still.

"Faye?" I whisper, voice barely above a breath.

She smiles.

Then—she slowly lowers herself onto one knee.

My brain short-circuits.

Wait.

WAIT. WHAT THE FUCK IS HAPPENING—

"Yoko," Faye says softly, her voice steady, certain—achingly tender.

My heart stops.

I freeze.

My hands fly to my mouth.

This—this is not happening. This cannot be happening.

I feel a sharp gasp leave my throat, my vision blurring at the edges.

Because Faye is kneeling. Faye is kneeling in front of me and in her hand—a small, velvet box.

Oh. My. God.

I choke on my breath. I hear Marissa gasp dramatically. I hear Big whisper, "Holy shit, it's happening."

I hear Engfa snort quietly, muttering, "Took her long enough."

But all I can do—all I can focus on—is Faye.

She looks up at me and then—she speaks.

"You once told me that words are powerful. That words have meaning, weight, consequence. That words can change everything."

"And you were right."

My breath catches.

Faye's eyes are soft, unwavering.

"Your words changed my life, Yoko. The first time I met you, you hated me."

I hear soft chuckles in the background. I can't even react.

"But somehow, through every argument, every challenge, every whispered confession—you became my everything."

I feel tears welling.

"You taught me what it means to love without fear. To fight for something that's real. To stand beside someone, through every storm, every trial—because they are worth it."

My chest tightens.

"I love you, Yoko."

"I have loved you in silence, in patience, in every stolen glance and hidden touch. And now, I want to love you in the open. In the light. In forever."

A shaky breath escapes me.

Faye's lips curve into the softest smile.

"So I'm giving you the words of my heart."

She slowly opens the velvet box.

Inside—a ring. Elegant. Simple. A silver band, with a small, intricate engraving inside—

I squint, blinking back tears.

The words, "I carry your heart with me."

I suck in a sharp breath.

Faye tilts her head. "Yoko Apasra," she murmurs, her voice so full of love, I feel my soul trembling.

"Will you marry me?"

I break.

A sob bursts from my lips. I nod frantically, tears spilling down my face.

"YES," I gasp, throwing myself at her.

She laughs, catching me effortlessly, spinning me in her arms. Cheers erupt around us. Applause. Shouting. Screaming. Chaos.

But I don't care. I don't hear anything.

All I hear is the wild beating of my heart. All I feel is Faye.

Faye. My Faye. My future wife.

I'm still trembling when Faye pulls back slightly, her hands warm and steady as she reaches for the ring in the velvet box.

"Let me," she murmurs, her voice so, so soft.

I nod, my eyes stinging, my throat too tight to speak.

She takes my left hand, fingers brushing over my skin, before she carefully slides the ring onto my finger.

It fits perfectly.

I stare at it, my vision slightly blurred by tears, watching how the silver band glistens under the warm lights.

It's real. It's so, so fucking real.

I look up.

Faye is smiling at me, so full of love, so full of certainty that my heart feels like it's overflowing. And then—she kisses me.

In front of everyone.

I barely have time to react before her lips are on mine, gentle, firm, utterly grounding.

A collective gasp ripples through the room. Then—chaos. Loud cheers.

Big whistling like an idiot. Marissa shrieking dramatically. Engfa clapping like we just won a freaking award. Even my dad chuckles behind me.

But I don't care.

All I care about is her. All I care about is this moment.

When we finally pull away, my face is burning.

I hear someone snicker and I don't even need to turn to know that it's Ink.

"Finally," she drawls, shaking her head. "And you guys made me keep it a secret for this long? Unbelievable."

I scowl at her. "Oh, shut up."

Faye just smirks, wrapping an arm around me so effortlessly, like she has always belonged there.

Then—everyone just swarms us.

"Congrats, lovebirds!" Marissa fake swoons.

"I cannot believe I only found out today that your mysterious girlfriend is our damn teacher," Big grumbles, giving me a light shove. "What the actual hell, Yoko?"

Ink smirks, arms crossed. "Welcome to my pain."

Everyone laughs. I bury my face in my hands because, why is my life like this?

"Alright, alright," Engfa waves everyone down. "Enough teasing. Let the newly engaged couple breathe."

"Thank you," I mumble, grateful for once.

Then—she smirks.

"But Yoko," Engfa tilts her head, wickedly amused. "You do realise this means you're stuck with her forever, right?"

I glance at Faye. But she's already watching me, brown eyes so knowing, so full of love.

And suddenly—everything just clicks.

I smile.

I don't even have to think about it.

"Yeah," I whisper, squeezing Faye's hand. "I wouldn't have it any other way."

Faye's grip tightens, her eyes soften.

And I know. This is our forever.

...

The atmosphere is so much calmer now.

Everyone has finally settled down, sprawled across the couch, eating food like we haven't eaten in days.

I'm sitting comfortably, leaning into Faye's chest. Her arms are wrapped around me, her chin resting lightly on my shoulder.

Every once in a while, she steals a bite of my food, smirking when I glare at her.

My friends are still teasing us, obviously.

Marissa nudges me, grinning. "I don't know how you're still alive, Yoko. You've literally been drowning in romance all night."

Ink pretends to gag. "I swear, this is what I felt every time I sat beside Yoko in Faye's class."

Faye laughs softly. "To be fair," she says smoothly, trailing her fingers along my arm, "I did try to be subtle."

Ink stares at her, deadpan. "You literally stared at her like she was poetry itself, Faye."

Big snorts. "That's not subtle."

Faye smirks, completely unapologetic. I hide my face in my hands again because I should've expected this.

Then—out of nowhere, something pops into my head.

I glance at Faye.

"If we're getting married," I say, slowly, "then... you know we have to wait until I finish university, right?"

Faye's lips twitch and she smirks.

"We'll get married before we go to Edinburgh together," she says casually.

I blink.

Pause.

Process.

...Wait.

"We?"

Faye's smirk widens. "You heard me."

I stare at her and then, I blink again.

Then—it clicks.

OH MY GOD.

"FAYE," I shout, eyes wide. "WHAT. THE. HELL."

She chuckles. "Surprise, baby."

My jaw drops.

Engfa bursts out laughing. Ink just sips her drink like she's watching the best drama unfold.

"Wait—wait—" I stammer, brain struggling to catch up. "YOU'RE GOING TO EDINBURGH?! FOR WHAT?!"

Faye tilts her head. "PhD in Literature."

I gasp.

"You—" I sputter. "You—YOU APPLIED FOR A PHD?!"

Faye just smirks, sipping her wine. "Yes, my love."

"AND YOU DIDN'T TELL ME?!"

"Surprise again," she teases.

I groan, throwing my head back. "Oh my God, I hate you."

Faye laughs, kissing my temple. "No, you don't."

I grumble.

Then—another realisation hits me.

I glance around the house. I look at Faye. I squint.

"...This house," I say slowly.

Faye hums.

I narrow my eyes. "Why do I feel like there's more to this?"

Faye's smirk grows. Then, so casually, she says—

"It's ours."

I choke.

"WHAT."

Faye leans in, voice softer now. "It's our future home, Yoko."

The room erupts again.

"WHAT THE HELL—"

"OH MY GOD, FAYE—"

"THIS WOMAN IS INSANE—"

I don't hear any of it. Because all I can do is stare at her, and all she does is smile.

So sure. So steady. So full of love.

I exhale shakily, swallowing the lump in my throat. And then, I laugh. Because, honestly—I should've known.

I exhale, staring at Faye like she's just casually told me the world is ending tomorrow.

Because holy fucking shit. Our home? She got us a house? For our future together?

I still haven't processed the fact that she's moving to Edinburgh with me, and now she's out here dropping bombshells left and right.

Faye watches me, amusement dancing in her brown eyes. She knows she's rendered me completely speechless.

Smug, infuriating woman.

I open my mouth. Then close it. Then open it again.

Then—"Faye. What. The. Hell."

She laughs. Softly, sweetly, effortlessly.

Like this is all so natural. Like this is just another inevitable part of our story.

"You always wanted a place of your own," she murmurs, her hand finding mine. Her fingers lace through mine like they always belonged there. "Somewhere you can feel safe. Somewhere that's just... ours."

I swallow. "Yeah, but—" My voice is so small.

But Faye shakes her head, smiling gently. "No 'buts,' my love," she says softly. "It's ours. Just like our future is ours."

Her thumb traces slow circles against my skin.

I blink rapidly.

I will not cry again. I will not.

...Shit. I'm crying again.

Faye chuckles, pulling me into her arms. "You are so cute."

"Shut up," I grumble against her shoulder, sniffling.

I hear Engfa fake gagging from somewhere in the background. "Jesus Christ, this is worse than a damn rom-com," she mutters.

I ignore her.

Faye doesn't let go. She just holds me, like she always does—like she always will.

And then, I realise something.

This is real. This is our future. And for the first time in my life—

I don't feel afraid.

I feel safe. I feel loved. I feel free.

I squeeze my eyes shut, burying my face into the warmth of her neck. "Thank you," I whisper.

Faye's lips press against my hair. "Always," she murmurs.

And I know she means it.

...

The celebration winds down.

My friends have left. My dad patted my head and told me he's proud of me. Engfa, the absolute menace, left with the words, "You two better not do anything illegal tonight."

I threw a cushion at her.

Now, it's just us—me and Faye, in our home.

I sit on the couch, curled up against her, our fingers still intertwined.

The night is quiet and peaceful. The only sound is the soft rhythm of our breathing, the distant hum of the wind.

I shift slightly, tilting my head to look at her and she's already looking at me.

Of course, she is.

"You're staring," I tease, voice barely above a whisper.

Faye smirks, tilting her head. "Can't help it," she murmurs, her thumb stroking the back of my hand. "I just love looking at you."

My heart skips.

"You're impossible," I grumble, turning away to hide my face.

Faye chuckles, tugging me back. "And you love it."

I roll my eyes, smiling despite myself. Then—she leans in, her lips brushing against my temple.

Soft. Warm. Home.

"Let's go to bed, love," she whispers.

I nod, letting her pull me up, letting her guide me upstairs, letting her hold me as we settle under the covers.

She wraps her arms around me, pulling me close. Her breath is warm against my skin. And I realise—

I've never felt more at home than I do right now.

I shift, pressing my lips against hers in a slow, lingering kiss. Then, as I pull back, I whisper against her lips—

"I can't wait for forever with you."

Faye's arms tighten around me and in the softest, most loving voice, she whispers back—

"Neither can I."

And with that, we close our eyes and let our future begin.