Our families had been talking about this trip for months, planning every detail like it was some sort of grand event. And it was—at least to them. I found out the truth a few days ago when my mom sat me down and said, with that soft voice she always uses when she knows I won’t like something, that this vacation was more than just a trip to the beach. It was a celebration. An unofficial engagement. Between me and her.

Her. My best friend. The girl sitting next to me now, legs folded on the seat, chattering like always, completely unaware.

I couldn't look at her for long. Every time I did, my chest tightened. Not because I didn’t like the idea—God, if I’m being honest, some part of me had always kind of hoped for something like this. But not like this. Not without her knowing. Not like some surprise party for the rest of our lives.

I was quiet. Too quiet, I guess.