Think Again (Camren)

Hope You've Enjoyed Your Stay

"When I was little, all I wanted to do was play hockey, not much has changed," that earned me a laugh, "I didn't think having friends was necessary, except for Kyla," I looked at my best friend who was holding baby Anton in her arms while in her cap and gown, "she's given so much to me in this world that I wouldn't trade our friendship for anything. And then there are my parents, who pretty much let me choose how I wanted my future to go. My sister Sofi, who stood beside me even though I was mean at most times and my big brother who rarely showed his face my Senior year, thank you Alex." I threw him a wink and he gave a thumbs up. "Austin Mahone for giving me the opportunity to open my heart. You've always been there for me regardless of what was going on, thank you."

I took a deep breath and licked my lips before catching my breath. "Lauren," I looked at her as her head snapped up to look at me, "you've made this school year more bearable then you can ever imagine. Thank you for opening up to me and allowing me to see who you really are beneath the surface, you know I'll always love you." I laughed quietly and bit my lip before addressing the thousands of people staring at me. I continued on with my speech about how high school can change our lives; I thanked the faculty for putting up with us and congratulated my fellow classmates and wished them great success in their future.

After my speech, we all lined up to receive our diplomas, being called one by one. I was facing front knowing Lauren was right behind me. We talked about how we would've loved to go onstage and accept our diplomas together, but that was no longer an option. I turned around and looked at her, "I'm proud of you, no matter what happens from now on Lo, I'm proud of you."

"Camila Cabello." My name was called and I took off down the aisle, hearing whistles and 'woots' coming from my family.

I took the rolled up piece of paper and smiled a little, placing my tassel on the opposite side of my cap. Lauren's name was called and I watched her walk down the aisle, no smile graced upon her face until she met my gaze.

I hurt so much inside yet I was so in love. She didn't want to be with me anymore. After everything we've been through since we met, she wanted to run the opposite direction. She was afraid to get in the way of my dreams. She didn't want me to follow her if it meant that I'd sacrifice everything I've worked hard towards.

Families scattered around the quad, congratulating other students and friends. I stayed back, leaning against a large tree and picked at the ribbon that was wrapped around my diploma. I felt someone shift beside me and I glanced over, squinting my eyes at the familiar figure.

"I'm proud of you too." Lauren said quietly, looking at the others in the crowd. Smiles graced upon their faces.

I nodded but didn't say anything, going back to closing my eyes.

"I'm leaving in two days."

"Great." I whispered but my heart was breaking all over again.

"I know we were going to spend the next two weeks together but my parents want me to fly with them back to Switzerland for a month." Lauren looked at me but I never looked at her.

"Every time you talk to me, it hurts that much more, did you know that?" I responded.

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be." I pushed myself off the tree and bent down to pick up a neatly wrapped box. "This is for you."

"Camila..." Lauren frowned and I avoided more eye contact.

"It's not much but you deserved something." I started to walk away and felt her hand on my wrist. "Lo, don't make this any harder." I whispered, turning around.

"I love you." Lauren cleared her throat and wiped tears from her eyes. "Camila, I love you."

I shook my head. "I love you too, but sometimes love just isn't enough." I allowed my fingers to brush lightly along her arm and then tangled my fingers with hers. "Goodbye, Lauren."