BELLINGHAM'S GIRL (under editing)

CHAPTER ELEVEN: Getaway

BELLA'S POV

The next morning, the first thing I did was look at my new necklace, still glistening on my dresser. I smiled, remembering last night's surprise and how much thought Jude had put into it. I picked up my phone and saw a text from Jude: "Good morning, princess. Did you sleep well?"

I replied, "Morning, baby. I did, thank you. Last night was perfect. How about you?"

He responded almost immediately, "I slept great knowing you were happy. I can't wait to see you again."

With exams finally behind me, I decided to spend the day relaxing and catching up on things I'd neglected during my study marathon. My room was a mess, so I set to tidying up and listening to music

Later in the day, as I was folding laundry, my phone buzzed with a call from Chloe. "Hey Bella, how are you feeling post-exams?" she asked cheerfully.

"Hey, Chloe! I'm feeling relieved and free," I laughed. "What about you?"
"Same here! We should celebrate. The gang is planning to meet up tonight at Zade's place. Are you in?" she asked.

"Absolutely, count me in," I said. "It's been too long since we all hung out."
"Great! See you at 7," Chloe confirmed.

As evening approached, I dressed casually but added a touch of elegance with my new necklace. When I arrived at Zade's, the familiar laughter and chatter of my friends greeted me. It felt like coming home.

"Hey everyone!" I said as I walked in.
"Bella! You're here!" Emily exclaimed, giving me a big hug. "We missed you!"
"I missed you all too," I said, smiling.

The night was filled with fun and laughter. We played games, reminisced about our school days, and shared our plans for the future. It was the perfect way to unwind after the stress of exams.

As the night drew to a close, I received a text from Jude. "Hey princess, I hope you're having fun with your friends. I miss you."

I smiled and replied, "I'm having a great time. I miss you too."

Emily noticed my smile and teased, "Jude?"

"Of course," I said, blushing slightly. "He's just checking in."

"He's such a sweetheart," Joyce said. "You two are perfect together."

"Thanks, Joyce," I said, feeling a warm glow inside.

After the party, I headed home, my heart full of gratitude for the amazing people in my life. As I got into bed, I received another text from Jude. "Goodnight, beautiful. Sweet dreams."

"Goodnight, darling," I replied, feeling content as I drifted off to sleep.

JUDE'S POV

Waking up to Bella's good morning text always started my day off right. After our one-month anniversary celebration, I felt even more committed to making every moment special for her.

Today was another busy day with training, but Bella was always on my mind. I couldn't wait to tell her about my plans for the weekend. I wanted to take her on a surprise trip to the countryside, somewhere we could relax and enjoy each other's company away from the city's hustle and bustle.

After practice, I called Bella. "Hey, princess. How's your day going?"

"Hey, darling! It's been good. I had a great time with my friends last night," she replied.
"I'm glad to hear that. Listen, I have a surprise for you this weekend. Are you free?" I asked.

"A surprise? Now I'm curious. Yes, I'm free," she said, her excitement palpable.
"Great. Pack a bag for a couple of days. I'll pick you up tomorrow morning," I said.
"Okay! I can't wait. I'll just ask mom for permission," she said, her voice full of anticipation.