The Girl with a Teacher's Heart

Epilogue

March, 2021

It's been a year since Patrick and I became a couple. A year full of heartache and love. A year full of memories that I still hold dear to my heart. Two years of dedicating myself as an education major. Today, I am now pursuing an Associate's Degree and hope to transfer to University of Nevada in Reno. I honestly cannot wait to see what the future holds for me and my teaching path. Patrick decided to surprise me with a gift for our one year anniversary.

"I can't believe it's been one year since you asked me out." I said.

"I can't either, but you truly have made me the happiest man alive." He replied as we were on our way to our destination.

"Where exactly are we going?" I asked.

"You'll see." He chuckled.

Ever since meeting Patrick on that cold, January day, I couldn't help but think how lucky I got when meeting him. Even after a year, I still couldn't believe that I got to be his partner in life. What a dream!

Patrick pulled up to a parking lot and as we got out, I noticed that we were looking at Round Hill Pines Beach and Marina. What the heck was this?

"Love, why are we at the beach?" I asked.

We got out of the car and walked on the smooth, coarse-grained sand before hitting the shoreline. Patrick held my hand as we got our toes wet from the ocean water which felt refreshing. I looked up at my boyfriend and hugged him tightly.

"I have something for you." He said as he put his hand in his pocket. 

"Close your eyes."

I closed them and he took out something from his pocket. What could it be? I thought.

"Okay, open them up." He said.

I opened my eyes and looked down at the box he was holding. I gasp with my hands covering my mouth.

"This isn't a proposal, but it is something I have been saving up for you." He said. He opened the box and there was a necklace that was in the shape of a circle with miniature chunks of glitter and inside was an engraving of a quote saying, It takes a big heart to shape little minds. There was also a red apple charm and diamond looking bead.

"Babe..." I started to speak.

Patrick took the necklace out of the box and went behind me to put it on me. He first moved my hair out of the way and kissed my smooth, warm neck that sent chills running down my spine. He placed the necklace on me and kissed my temple this time. I turned to him and looked up at his handsome, dark brunette eyes. 

"Happy one year anniversary, my beautiful teacher." He said as he looked down at me.

"Happy one year anniversary, my handsome love." I replied back as we exchanged a kiss and watched the sunset on the horizon. In the midst of darkness, we still found each other and became one heartbeat. Reader, whatever you do in life, know that there is always help along the way. For me, it was the longing of making a difference in the lives of hundreds of children. As a future educator, I strongly believe that your success is the most valuable part of your life and that is exactly what I got.