Maybe It's Time

APRIL, 2003 - PART ONE

Bradley's POV

My mother started the treatment and and a year later we found out it was in remission. Joe gave us some money but we took it as a loan. Fortunately, I didn't need to stop studying to take care of her. I had help of my friends.

Joe and Cynthia were like parents for me and they did everything they could to help, even when the only thing my mother needed was someone to talk to when she was all alone. Stefani was also helpful to her, helping with the house and spending time with her during the week while I was studying.

When the doctor told us she was getting better, I decided it was time to think more about my future. I told my mother that I made decisions and she was fine with that. She supported me in every move I made.

I thought about a job opportunity for weeks. I was finally graduating and didn't want to stay where I was. This professor introduced me to a man who worked in a film studio. It was not hard to get a job but definitely I would have to move to New York.

I didn't tell Stefani until I was sure everything would work out for me. When it happened, I took her for a dinner and it was not a good idea. She did not freak out but it was visible her disappointment.

"What's up? Why you brought me here?"

"Just want to spend time together..."

"Mmm... Sure. Are you ok, because you seem down since you got here this weekend. I mean... You finally ending your paper. You should be celebrating". I smiled and drank some of my beer. "I can't wait to finish high school. I can't stand it anymore..." She didn't stop talking while eating her food. I just could watch and drink while looking straight in those green eyes. I got lost on them. I still do. "... So that's why I just wanna tell everyone to go to hell... Are you even listening to me?"

"Yeah!" I woke up from my thoughts and smiled. "You can't wait to quit school and tell everyone to go to hell". We got in silence for a while. "But you know, growing up is much worse than high school. Trust me. Specially when you have to take hard decisions... I got a job offer some weeks later and I decided to accept. When I graduate I can start working in my field..."

"Oh wow, that's great! I am glad to know" I nodded and smiled.

"Yeah... The office is in New York..."

"Mmm... I see. So you will have to move".

"Yes, I will move to New York. I even rented an apartment, so it's all settled".

"That's... Awesome". She gave me a fake smile. "That's really nice".

"Uhmm. I think it will". I said while scratching my head. "I will come visit, of course".

"So... When you move?"

"In some days".

"Why didn't you tell me earlier?"

"Because I didn't know if everything would work out..."

"That's so unfair. You should have told me... Anyway, I just wish you the best". She smiled.

"Are you mad?"

"Nah... Just surprised. I will miss you, you know?"

"I will miss you too. But it's not like you won't see me again".

"I know, I know". She finished her meal. "Can we go now?"

I noticed she was mad at me. I paid the bill and I took her back home. I knew it would be hard for her but I think it would be for the best staying far from her. I knew my feelings for her were changing and that was the last thing I needed was falling in love with Stefani.

To be continued...

Ps: Sorry guys... This was short. I know but this week has been busy and I didn't have much time. I will try to write more for the next chapter, then it will be Stefani's pov about this day. XX