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Ch-60

BEN & GEN

Genevieve decided to try one more time. She called Benjamin over for talking about Caleb. He came over thinking it's just a normal meeting them. He was happy that he could see her today. Genevieve made coffee for the both of them and sat on the sofa beside Ben.

Gen: Caleb and his girlfriend have patched up.

Ben: Really? That's unexpected.

Gen: Hmm. Well I had to ask you something?

Ben: Yes, say.

Gen: Do you still like the movies?

Ben: Yes.

Gen: Then let's see one of them.

Ben: But you don't like going to the movies.

Gen: Hmm. Thinking to give it a try again.

To Benjamin, this was the best thing that ever happened to him in the past few years. He had tried non stop to win Genevieve back. But she wouldn't even wait to hear him out. A date offer coming from her was like giving water to a dried plant. Benjamin was in a state of such shock that he tried to take a sip of the burning hot coffee.

Ben: Ha ha ha. That was hot.

He kept the coffee cup back hiding his pain but it was clearly visible in his red face what was happening to him. Genevieve tried to hide her smile.

KIERA

(next day-movie premiere)  

I couldn't help but be awkward throughout the film. People around me and Ian were laughing, crying, enjoying the film. We were silent. After the film ended, we came out of the theatre and went for a walk.

Ian: How was the film?

Kiera: It was fun. By the way.. I think I need to tell you something.

Ian: I think I know what you will tell. Let's sit on the bench.

We sat on a nearby bench.

Ian: So I am guessing you are dating him again.

Kiera: Yes.

Ian: Why do you like him? He always makes you cry.

Kiera: I just do. Crying and being hurt seems fine if that's the cost of being with him.

Ian: So should I wait? Since you broke up once, who says you won't the second time?

He said it as a joke. He was trying to hide his hurt and I knew exactly how that felt.

Ian: Anyways, jokes aside. You know I am always there for you. If sometime your hurt gets to much to handle, you have friend to come to.

Kiera: I know it won't get too much to handle.

Ian: That doesn't mean you act like you are okay. Pretending is very difficult. What I really want to say is be happy.. for real.

Kiera: I hope you too find happiness.

Ian: I'll try. Just so you know if I ever get married you will always be invited.

Kiera: And I'll surely be there.

(In the upcoming months)

Caleb and I started our relationship again. We often fought. Arguments were passionate explosions of thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. Because we argued often we made up often. Each kiss was like saying "I'm sorry" or "Thank you." And when we saw each other again for the first time after one of our fights, it felt as though this moment was a fresh beginning.

(Ryan's bar)

Kiera: So.. we are dating again.

Caleb: Yes!! Back together!! For forever!!

Caleb might have been a little more drunk than usual or maybe that was his usual self.

Ava: Why do you date so loudly?

Maeve: Are you guys the only couple dating in the world?

Ryan: By the way, now that everyone's dating, let's go on a vacation!!

Ava: Hmm.. Healing trip. We can go to Nantucket Island.

Kiera: Amazing right? We all agree.

Caleb: Agree.

Ryan: Agree.

Maeve: Wait a minute. Slow down. There's an ex couple here too.

Theo: I am okay with it. If you are..

Ryan: That's my guy!! Problem solved.

Maeve: Not Solved.

Ava: I'll cover everyone's expenses.

Maeve: When are we leaving?

Kiera: Power of capitalism.

Ryan: Let me create a playlist for the trip!

The trip could have gone many ways. But it went the best way it ever could. After a day or two into the trip, Maeve decided to get back together with Theo. If anyone was the epitome of soulmates it was them. Them getting back together was meant to be.

Ryan and Ava decided to get married. Caleb was his best man, standing tall and proud in his tuxedo while wearing flip-flops. The formal wear did not fit with the casual setting. But logic no longer mattered. Everything made sense if you just looked at it a certain way. He stood silently, so serious about the little task given to him. Ryan could feel his gaze upon him as he took Ava's hands and spoke the words that would make her his forever. Theo gave her away; it was always supposed to be him. He had always been like a father to the group. I was Ava's maid of honor. Maeve officiated the wedding. More like fake officiated it, but it worked for us.

Our friendships were like the roots of a great oak tree - deep, intertwined, and unshakeable. Through all the twists and turns of life, we knew each other for the longest time. As couples, we worked out, but as a group of friends, we broke all barriers of distance and difference. We laughed together until our sides hurt and cried on each other's shoulders through heartbreaks and losses. Our bond was forged in the fires of shared experiences and strengthened by unconditional love and acceptance. Everything turned out just as it should've - we stood strong through every storm that came our way. And to us, that was what mattered the most - these lifelong bonds that would never be broken.