BELLINGHAM'S GIRL (under editing)

CHAPTER TWENTY TWO: Graduation

BELLA'S POV

I woke up with a burst of excitement bubbling in my chest. It was Jude's birthday, and I was determined to make it unforgettable. After wishing him a happy birthday over the phone earlier that morning and finding out he was at the gym, I quickly hatched a plan. I called Jobe, pleading with him to keep Jude occupied for the day so I could set up a surprise at home. Thankfully, Jobe agreed without hesitation, promising to stall Jude until evening.

With Jobe's help, I had the whole day to transform the garden into a dreamy dinner setting. Fairy lights draped across the trees, casting a soft, romantic glow as the sun began to set. A long table, elegantly decorated with candles and fresh flowers, awaited Jude's return. It felt like preparing for a scene straight out of a romance movie, and I was loving every moment of it.

I carefully arranged the gifts I had picked out for Jude. The custom-made gold watch, a sleek fitness tracker to support his dedication to staying healthy and fit. Then there was the memory jar, filled with handwritten notes detailing our most cherished memories together.

I didn't stop there. I had penned heartfelt love letters for Jude, each one sealed with a kiss and meant to comfort him whenever he missed me.

After setting up the gifts, I turned my attention to the culinary delights. I knew exactly what Jude loved, so I spent hours baking his favorite cake and preparing his favorite dishes, letting their tantalizing aromas fill the air and add to the enchantment of the evening.

When Jude finally arrived home, the anticipation and excitement were almost too much to bear. I texted him earlier to come straight to the garden. I watched anxiously as he stepped into the garden, his eyes widening in surprise and delight at the scene before him. The twinkling lights, the beautifully set table, and the gifts that awaited him with love.

"Princess..." Jude's voice caught in his throat as he walked toward me, pulling me into a tight embrace. "You've really gone all out. This is incredible."

I beamed up at him, feeling my heart swell with happiness. "Happy birthday, darling. I wanted tonight to be as special for you as you are to me."

"You've more than succeeded," Jude murmured, his eyes shimmering with gratitude as he looked around. "Thank you for making this day so unforgettable." He kissed me and I responded, the stars shining on us.

We spent the evening under the stars, sharing a meal filled with laughter, stories, and the warmth of our love.

JUDE'S POV

Under the starlit sky, surrounded by the warmth of Bella's thoughtful preparations, we shared a meal filled with laughter and stories. As we savored each dish she had lovingly prepared, I couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with gratitude for her thoughtfulness.

"You've made this birthday unforgettable," I told her sincerely, my heart full of love for her.

Bella smiled, her eyes shining with happiness. "I'm just happy you're here with me."

As the evening deepened, we lingered at the table, enjoying each other's company and the peaceful serenity of the night. With the stars overhead and Bella by my side, I knew this moment would be cherished forever in my heart.

"I love you, Bella," I whispered softly.

"I love you too, Jude," she replied tenderly, and beneath the canopy of stars, we kissed, grateful for the love that bound us together.

Two Years Later: Graduation Day

BELLA'S POV

It was finally graduation day. After years of hard work, late-night study sessions, and countless group projects, graduation day was here. Also, I'm 21 already. I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting my cap and gown, feeling a mix of excitement and nostalgia. TUM had been my home for the past few years, and now, it was time to say goodbye.

"Can you believe it? We're actually graduating!" Joyce exclaimed, bouncing into my room.We decided to get ready in the same place.

"I know, it feels surreal," I replied, smiling at my best friend. Joyce and I had been through so much together. We had laughed, cried, and celebrated each other's successes. Today was no different.

We gathered our things and made our way to the grand hall where the ceremony was to be held. The atmosphere was electric, with graduates and their families filling the space with chatter and anticipation. As we took our seats, I couldn't help but look around, taking in the sight of my fellow graduates, all dressed in their academic regalia.

The ceremony began with speeches from the faculty, each one filled with words of encouragement and wisdom. When it was time for us to walk across the stage, my heart pounded with a mix of nerves and excitement. One by one, our names were called, and we walked across the stage to receive our diplomas.

"Bella Blackstone," the announcer called, and I felt a rush of pride as I walked across the stage. The dean handed me my degree, and I shook his hand, smiling for the camera. It was a moment I knew I would cherish forever.

After the ceremony, we gathered outside with our families. My family and friends were all there, Jude stood out,looking dashing in a suit, his smile lighting up his face. Almost everyone was taking pictures of him.

"I'm so proud of you, princess," Jude said, pulling me into a tight embrace.

"Thank you," I whispered, feeling tears prick at the corners of my eyes. "I couldn't have done it without you."

We spent the afternoon taking photos, laughing, and reminiscing about our time at TUM. Joyce, Chloe, Zade, and Emily,  joined us with their families and we made plans to celebrate later that evening.

As the sun began to set, we headed to a beautiful restaurant overlooking the city. The view was breathtaking, and the table was adorned with flowers and candles, creating a magical ambiance.

"To the future," Joyce toasted, raising her glass.
"To new beginnings," Zade added, clinking his glass with ours.

"And to us," I said, smiling at my friends. "We've made it this far together, and I know we'll continue to support each other no matter where life takes us."

The evening was filled with laughter and stories, each moment more precious than the last. As I looked around the table, surrounded by my closest friends and family, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. This was just the beginning of a new chapter, and I couldn't wait to see what the future held.

After dinner, I decided to spend the night together with Jude. I told everyone goodbye and it seemed like they were all eager for me to leave. I overlooked it cos today was a happy day.

We got to Jude's house and he seemed to be on the edge.
"Are you okay darling? You seem off" I asked as I held his cheeks in my hands.
"I'm fine darling. I'm just so happy for you" he replied and I smiled.
"I know right. Now I can focus on the bakery and you" I said and he kissed my forehead.

"I love you and I'm proud of you baby. Can I ask you a question?" He said and I smiled
"Go ahead"
"Actually, never mind." You must be tired. Let's go to bed"

He carried me up and went up to his room. We freshened up and went to bed, cuddling each other.

JUDE'S POV
Bella went into the bathroom to freshen up. I brought out the ring in my pocket. "I should make it more special." I thought
I kept the ring in a hidden drawer and showered after her.

"Come" she pointed pouted cutely as I came out of the dressing room
I climbed the bed and hugged her.
"Goodnight baby" I said and she nodded, hugging me tightly as I rubbed her head as she slept.
I looked at her as I thought about how the past years have been.
Our beautiful relationship has been so good, Benson and Joyce have been dating for two years now. Jobe and Bianca also have partners.
Everything was smooth.
This woman is the best thing that has ever happened to me and I can't wait to marry her.