Between The Lines

Chapter 134: Go get her, Romeo

Lane's POV (1st Person):

I glanced over at the calendar on my wall. The date was circled in bold red ink—graduation day. Today was the day. After weeks, months of waiting, the countdown was finally over. No more hiding, no more secrets. Two more hours, and Rebecca would be mine, out in the open.

The anticipation buzzed under my skin, making it nearly impossible to focus on anything. I looked at myself in the mirror, trying to decide if the suit I had on was good enough. I adjusted the tie, checking for any creases. I wanted to look perfect. Not for the ceremony, not for the photos—but for her.

Matt, of course, was being his usual annoying self.

"Dude, relax," he said from behind me, plopping down on my bed. "It's not like you're getting married today."

I rolled my eyes. "It feels like I am."

Matt raised an eyebrow. "You're seriously comparing graduation to a wedding? Lane, you need help."

I ignored him, straightening my jacket, feeling the nerves start to claw at me. Graduation wasn't just another ceremony—it was the moment where everything would change. After today, Rebecca and I wouldn't have to hide anymore.

Matt, on the other hand, was too busy raiding my closet.

"Man, you gotta wear this shirt," he said, pulling out a deep navy one. "Ladies dig this kind of thing. Shows off your muscles."

I shot him a look. "I don't need advice on what to wear."

He smirked, ignoring me. "Bro, I know Rebecca likes it when you look all serious and broody, but trust me, you wear this and she'll melt."

"Matt—"

"Oh, and do you have any cologne? Not that cheap crap you usually wear. Girls love that expensive stuff. Makes 'em think you've got your life together."

I groaned, pulling the shirt from his hand. "You're really helping right now."

Matt grinned. "I know. Aren't I the best?"

I chuckled despite myself, tossing the shirt onto the bed. Matt had a way of easing the tension even when he was driving me nuts.

He clapped me on the back. "You'll be fine, man. In a few hours, you and Rebecca can ride off into the sunset, just like in all those cheesy movies you pretend not to like."

"I do not—" I started, but Matt was already rummaging through my drawers.

"And you better believe I'm gonna be there with a front-row seat to all the drama. Got my popcorn ready and everything." He winked at me before heading toward the door. "Now, let's get moving. Graduation waits for no man. Also, I'm raiding your fridge after this."

I shook my head, but I couldn't help but smile. Leave it to Matt to make the biggest day of my life feel like some kind of sitcom.

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The ceremony itself was long and, honestly, boring. Speech after speech about the future, dreams, and aspirations. I couldn't care less about any of it. My focus was on Rebecca.

She looked stunning. Absolutely radiant in her gown, her hair perfectly framing her face. She glanced my way more than once, and every time, I felt the fire between us flare to life. Her eyes were full of something—anticipation, excitement, maybe even nervousness. But underneath it all, there was a spark of confidence.

Two more hours.

It was almost unbearable. I shifted in my seat, catching her looking at me from across the room. The heat in her gaze nearly made me lose it right there.