The one I cherish

"Just add it and then subtract," said Rose to Julia.

"Oh, so that's how it works," replied Julia. It was Sunday morning, and they had decided to finish their homework before dressing up. After working through it, Julia exclaimed, "Finally, we're done!"

Rose called out, "Mom, Mrs. Lydia, can you bring snacks for my friend?"

"Coming, Mom," Rose responded. She went downstairs, grabbed the snacks, and brought them back up.

"Geez," Julia remarked, "why is your mom so harsh on you?"

"Oh, it's just her usual self," Rose shrugged. "Come on, let's eat."

After finishing their snacks, Julia started helping Rose get dressed. "This dress looks beautiful on you! Look, it's such a rare model," Julia said with admiration.

"Wow, aren't you a lucky girl," Julia added teasingly.

"Shut up, Julie," laughed Rose.

"Alright, now it's time for makeup and hair," said Julia. She worked her magic, and after the final touch, she declared, "Voila! You look fabulous."

"Okay, Rose, I'll lead you to the back door. It's time to go."

A car was waiting at the back, and Sam stepped out to greet her. "Princess, please, come in."

Rose, still a bit frustrated but impressed by his gesture, got into the car. Julia said, "I'll leave you two here. See you at school!"

"What? You're not coming with us?" Rose asked.

"Nope, I've got something to take care of. See you later," Julia said, waving goodbye.

Sam was quiet during the drive to the restaurant, which took about an hour. When they arrived, the ambiance was beautifully romantic, with candlelight and gentle music. Rose was overwhelmed to see a single table prepared just for them, and posters everywhere reading, "I'm sorry, Rose."

She felt tears well up in her eyes. "I'm sorry too. I didn't mean to slap you or give you a hard time. I was just scared. If I fall in love with you, I didn't want you to feel obligated, as if I'm yours automatically. Besides, you're the basketball captain, and so many girls admire you. I don't want to feel left behind," she said, her voice choked with emotion.

Sam gently took her face in his hands. "I didn't know you felt that way. But knowing that you love me makes me so happy. You're forever my happy place," he whispered before leaning in and kissing her passionately. "I love you," he said softly.

Meanwhile, at home, Sarah was searching frantically. "Maddie, where is my lipstick?"

"Here it is," Maddie responded nonchalantly.

Sarah, annoyed, replied, "How many times have I told you not to take my stuff?" She hurried downstairs to meet John, who was waiting at the door.

"You look gorgeous," he said, kissing her on the cheek before taking her hand and leading her inside his home.

"Sarah, dear, you look so beautiful! Come, come, sit beside me," Mrs. Roberts greeted warmly. "Sam has told us all about you. I'm sure that even your future children with John will follow in your footsteps." Both Sarah and John blushed deeply.

"Mom!" John said, emphasizing his embarrassment.

Mrs. Roberts laughed as John's father added, "It's true. We really like you, Sarah. It would be wonderful to have you as our future daughter."

Sarah smiled shyly and replied, "I'd actually like that too." John looked at her, surprised, and smiled back.

Afterward, John walked Sarah to the door. "Thanks for coming. I'm so glad we're working together toward our future," he said with a touch of exhaustion.

Sarah noted his tone but thought he might just be tired. John gave her a soft, "Good night," and she returned home, happily floating on cloud nine.