~009
~BRIAN
"Bestie, my birthday's coming up in two weeks!" Olivia exclaimed excitedly.
"How could I forget?" Brian replied.
"I'm thinking of organising a party." She said, her eyes sparkling.
"Party?" I raised an eyebrow.
She nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah. My friends and I can plan something. It'll be fun, don't you think?"
I smiled. "Okay, but I get to plan one surprise for you too."
"Ooooh? Can't wait." She giggled excitedly.
"Me neither."
**********
~ BREAK TIME
I wanted to get something for us to eat at the cafeteria so I asked Olivia to come with me. On our way, I asked her, "Have you ever had a boyfriend?" She looked at me curiously, wondering why I was asking.
"Yes, Gabriel."
"I mean apart from him, have you dated anyone else?"
"No one."
"Do you have someone you love?"
"Uhmm.. actually, yes."
My mind went blank for a moment as I tried to process her words. She loved someone else?
"Oh really?" I managed to say, trying to sound casual despite the sudden turmoil in my thoughts.
She nodded and I felt a pang of unexpected disappointment.
"Is there a problem?" She asked staring into my worried eyes.
"Oh no. Not at all."I forced a reassuring smile. "I'm fine," I said, trying to hide my surprise and curiosity about who this mystery person was.
~ WEEKS LATER
~ OLIVIA
"Happy birthday via. I wish you all the good things of life."
"Thank you so much, bestie." I beamed, my eyes sparkling in anticipation. "Now, about the suprise gift... when can I expect it?"
"Don't worry, dear. Expect it very soon. Promise."
I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and anticipation.
"You're really keeping it a secret, huh?" I teased, trying to get a hint out of Brian.
"Not a chance, Via," Brian replied with a sly grin. "You'll just have to wait and see."
"Happy birthday baby." Tasha said, rushing to me with a hug
"Happy birthday queen." Roxanna followed suit.
I smiled warmly, feeling loved and appreciated as Tasha and Roxanna wrapped me in hugs.
"Aww, thanks guys! I'm so lucky to have you all in my life," I said, hugging them back tightly."Thanks sweethearts. I love you all."
**********
"Hey Damien, all set?"
"Uhmmm.. actually there's a problem." He replied, looking frazzled The lights got broken. And we have to get a new one as soon as possible."
"Seriously? That's not good," I replied, concern etched on my face. "Do we have a backup plan or someone who can fix it ASAP?"
"I'll take care of it. I'll be right back," He said, already heading out the door to find a solution to the lighting issue.
~ OLIVIA
I couldn't resist Brian's pleading eyes, and the promise of birthday gifts was too enticing to ignore. Plus, I loved how he always kept me on my toes with his surprises.
As my best friend, he knew exactly how to get me to say yes. I agreed to the date, curiosity and excitement building up inside me. What could he possibly have planned? I couldn't help but wonder if he'd finally reveal the surprise gift he had been teasing me about.
"Wow, Brian this place is so beautiful."
"I know, right? Thought you would like it."
"What the hell are you saying? I love it."
He chuckled, a pleased smile spreading across his face. "I was hoping you'd feel that way," he said, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "You deserve a special celebration, and this place just seemed fitting for my favorite person."
I playfully rolled my eyes, trying to hide the warmth spreading through my chest. "You're really laying it on thick, aren't you?" I teased. "By the way, where's my gift? You didn't forget, did you?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.
"No, I haven't. Let's go inside inside."
We got into the big hall and at first, it was so dark and I was really getting scared but suddenly....all the lights came up.
I stood frozen in shock as the lights illuminated the hall, revealing a sea of photos showcasing our favorite memories together. I was just mesmerised and in total shock.
The room erupted in a chorus of "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!" as my friends poured in, beaming with smiles.
Roxanna, Tasha, Juliet, Gabriella, Shantel and even Emily.
I felt overwhelmed with emotion, my heart swelling with gratitude and love. Brian had truly outdone himself this time.
I turned to him, tears welling up in my eyes, and threw my arms around him in a tight hug. "Thank you, Brian! This is the most amazing surprise ever!"
"You're welcome beautiful. Expect more surprises."
"Yeah, I'm sure you'll definitely like it." Roxanna added.
"Really? Why don't you show me now?"
"Don't worry. You'll get to know soon." Brian replied, with a reassuring smile.
Everyone took their seats and placed their orders.
The sound of clinking glasses and lively chatter filled the air as everyone settled in, eagerly awaiting the food to arrive.
Brian took the opportunity to raise his glass, a mischievous glint in his eye. "To the birthday girl!" he toasted, his voice booming across the hall. The room echoed with cheers and applause as my friends chimed in, "To the birthday girl!"
We all took a sip of our drinks, savoring the moment, as the DJ spun a lively tune, getting everyone in the mood for celebration.
The aroma of delicious food wafted through the air, making our stomachs growl with anticipation. Just then, the waiters arrived with our orders, and the table erupted into a chorus of "Finally!" and "Let's dig in!"
The food was a hit, with everyone raving about their choices. I couldn't help but feel grateful for my amazing friends and the incredible celebration Brian had planned.
As we ate and laughed, I caught Brian's eye, and he smiled, looking pleased with himself. I mouthed "thank you" to him, and he nodded, his eyes sparkling with happiness. The music continued to play, and soon, everyone was dancing and having the time of their lives.
As everyone began to file out, leaving just Brian and me behind, I felt a strange sense of unease wash over me. My heart started racing, and I couldn't quite pinpoint why. Brian's eyes locked onto mine, and I sensed a mix of anticipation and nervousness emanating from him.
The sudden silence in the hall seemed to amplify the tension between us. I swallowed hard, trying to calm my racing thoughts. What was Brian planning? Why had he asked everyone to leave? The uncertainty hung in the air, making me feel both anxious and curious at the same time.
Brian took a step closer to me, his eyes never leaving mine, and I felt my heart skip a beat.