Chapter Text
Bianca stood in front of a full-length mirror, her reflection glowing. Her gown was simple yet stunning—a sleek, strapless silhouette that hugged her athletic frame in all the right places, cascading into soft layers of silk and lace. The warm Arizona breeze teased her loose curls, and the scent of blooming desert flowers drifted through the open windows. Her mother stood just behind her, beaming with pride, while Naomi, who was her Maid of Honor, was nearby, a teasing grin already forming on her lips.
"Are you sure you’re ready for this?" her mother asked, her voice a mix of excitement and emotion as she rested a hand gently on Bianca's shoulder.
Bianca turned to face her mom, her expression calm, confident. A small smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she turned around. “I’m the one who proposed, remember? I’ve never been more sure about anything in my life.” She exhaled.
Her mother gave a knowing nod, squeezing Bianca’s hand in support.
“I can tell this time is different” Her mom noted.
“It is, everything that you were saying to be before…I understood, because part of me knew that’s not what I felt when I stood here the first time..” Bianca turned back to face the mirror, holding my mom and Naomi’s gaze. “But with Jade…I'm nervous, but…excited. I can’t wait to start a life with her. I know the feeling that you were talking about when you talk about dad because I feel it. You can’t even put words to it. It's just something that inherently you know..this is right, this is what’s meant to be…I’m so ready for this”
Before her mom could reply, Naomi, chimed in from the side, her tone playful but laced with sincerity. “You better be, because if we have a repeat of last year, I’m going to start calling you Jenny from the Block. We’re not going to keep doing these weddings.”
Bianca shot her a glare, but the grin on her face betrayed her amusement. “Shut up,” she said, shaking her head at Naomi, who stifled a laugh.
The room was filled with warmth and love, a stark contrast to the chaos that had unraveled a year ago. The world had watched their love story unfold—messy, complicated, and beautiful. The media whirlwind had been relentless, with Sasha’s slander campaign fueling the tabloids for months. Bianca, once a beloved figure, had found herself in unfamiliar territory, portrayed as the villain, a role she never thought she’d play. It took time to adjust, to accept that she couldn’t control how the world saw her. She had to live her life regardless.
It had been a tough season, one that tested her in ways she hadn’t expected. For the first time, her game faltered under the pressure, the weight of public opinion beared down on her. But as the months passed, she grew stronger. She stopped letting life happen to her and started living it on her terms, boldly and unapologetically.
And now, with all that behind her and the media’s focus shifting, she and Jade had found peace. They had built a life together, balancing the demands of the court with the quiet moments at home, away from the spotlight. Today, everything felt like a mirror of the year before, but the difference was undeniable—Bianca had no doubts. She knew, without question, that she was exactly where she was supposed to be, with the person she was meant to spend the rest of her life with.
As she turned back to face the mirror, a soft breeze lifted the curtains, and the sound of distant music drifted through the air, signaling the time was drawing near. Bianca’s heart swelled with anticipation and joy as her mind drifted for a moment.
Bianca’s thoughts swirled, filled with memories of the turmoil she had caused, the pain she had inflicted not just on Sasha but on Jade too. She couldn’t shake the guilt of having failed to choose Jade the moment she knew—truly knew—that her heart belonged to her. Instead, she had hurt them both, dragging Sasha along, allowing her to fight for a relationship that Bianca had long since checked out of, and forcing Jade to live in limbo, questioning her own sanity, her worth, and where she stood in Bianca’s life. The back and forth had taken its toll, and Bianca knew she couldn't afford to make those mistakes again.
That’s why she had planned this trip. Not to run away from the mess, but to face it head-on. She needed to prove, beyond any doubt, that she was all in this time—no hesitation, no fear, no second-guessing. She was ready to show Jade that, despite the chaos they’d been through, the media circus, and the slander, she was the one Bianca chose. And she wanted Jade to know it every single day .
She had booked a trip to Bora Bora, the island was breathtaking, framed by turquoise waters and swaying palms. The backdrop was perfect—an isolated paradise where the only sounds were the gentle lapping of waves and the occasional tropical bird. Jade had assumed the trip was just an escape from the endless drama, a momentary reprieve from the negative press and Bianca's shaky game performance. But Bianca had something far more important planned.
They arrived at sunset, the sky painted in shades of orange and pink as the sun dipped beneath the horizon. Bianca had arranged everything down to the finest detail. The private beach was transformed into a scene out of a fairy tale—oversized letters spelled out "Will You Marry Me?" in delicate pink and red roses, their petals catching the glow of the candles that lined the sandy path. Hundreds of flickering lights cast a warm, romantic glow, and Jade’s favorite song, I Choose You by Kiana Lede, soft and melodic, played in the background, carried on the gentle breeze.
When they stepped onto the beach, Jade froze. Her eyes widened in disbelief as she took in the sight before her, her breath catching in her throat. Bianca stood there, her heart pounding, nerves mixing with the overwhelming love she felt.
“What… what’s going on?” Jade asked, though the look in her eyes said she already knew.
Bianca couldn’t help but smile softly, her voice shaky with emotion. “I know I haven’t always been the woman you deserve, Jade. I wasn’t strong enough to choose you when I should have. I hurt you… I let you live in limbo when I should’ve been brave enough to tell you that you’re the one I want… that I’ve always wanted.” She paused, searching Jade’s eyes, the depth of her sincerity filling the space between them.
“I put so much weight on you to fight for us, to carry the burden of uncertainty, and that wasn’t fair. You deserved better than that. And I can’t change the past, but I can make sure, from this day forward, you’ll never have to question where I stand or where my heart sits. I choose you, Jade, every single day. I will always choose you.”
Jade’s hand flew to her mouth, her eyes brimming with unshed tears. Bianca continued, her voice now steady and sure. “Despite the media mess, despite everything we’ve been through the past six months… I’ve never been happier. And I know that the drama won’t last forever, but I want us to last forever. ”
Then, she slowly dropped to one knee, the flickering candlelight illuminating her face as she held out a stunning ring. “I love you, Jade. And I want to spend the rest of my life showing you that. Will you marry me?”
Jade’s breath hitched, tears finally spilling down her cheeks as she looked from the ring to Bianca. For a moment, she couldn’t speak, overwhelmed by the raw emotion of it all. Finally, she knelt down to Bianca’s level, wrapping her arms around her and pressing her forehead to Bianca’s.
“Yes,” Jade whispered, her voice full of love. “Yes, a million times yes.”
They kissed, the world around them fading away as they held each other close.
Angel tapped her foot, arms crossed, as she checked the time on her phone. "Jade, seriously, we're going to need to take our places soon," she called out, her voice carrying a mixture of impatience but delighted urgency.
"I’m coming," Jade replied, her tone light with an undertone of excitement.
Then, Jade stepped out from the dressing room, and Angel's eyes widened, she gasped lightly at the sight of her sister. Jade wore a gown that was the perfect blend of elegance and allure: a sleek, fitted silhouette that draped gracefully down to her feet. It was daring, a tasteful slit ran up one side, just enough to bring a hint of sexy. Her freshly trimmed hair framed her face with soft waves, accentuating her radiant smile that seemed to outshine even the delicate teardrop diamond necklace she wore.
"Oh my god..." Angel whispered, momentarily lost for words. “Jade, you look... stunning. Bianca’s going to be completely mesmerized.”
Jade chuckled softly, a hint of a blush coloring her cheeks as she turned to Angel with a smile. Angel laughed, shaking her head. “I can’t believe it—you’re actually getting married.”
Jade joined her with a soft hearted chuckle but as she did, her gaze grew thoughtful, reflecting on not just the past year, but her entire life. For so long, she had been so singularly focused. Basketball had always been her purpose, her outlet, her way to channel every ounce of determination and grit. And she’d poured herself into it with everything she had. Beyond Angel, there hadn’t been much room for anything or anyone else.
But now, standing here with her sister, she felt a deep and undeniable sense of change. Basketball would always hold a piece of her heart, but Bianca... Bianca had shown her that there was a life beyond the game, a life that didn’t hinge on the next win or title. For the first time, she wanted to share everything, from the mundane to the extraordinary, with someone by her side. She had a partner now, someone who filled her with joy she never thought possible and a vision of building something even more meaningful—a family, a legacy that went beyond stats.
“Yeah, it’s crazy, isn’t it?” Jade replied, a soft smile tugging at the corner of her lips as she looked at her sister. “Two years ago, I would’ve laughed at the idea. And honestly, I don’t think I even knew how much I wanted this and was just scared to admit it. You and I have had so much disappointment in life, I always felt like the only things I could truly rely on was you, and my ability to do what I do on the court.. But Bianca? She’s changed everything. Life with her feels like winning—except it’s not something I have to do alone.”
Angel beamed, reaching out to gently squeeze Jade’s hand. “I know. You deserve this, sis. You deserve all of it. I thought I was going to have to 1,2 Ciara step on her ass in the beginning, but I see how happy she makes you, so I really am happy for you.”
Jade laughed but gave Angel’s hand a squeeze in return. “ And don’t worry, if anybody tries to pull a ‘you’ at this wedding, I’m taking them down. Not on my watch.” Angel promised.
Jade groaned. "After all we’ve been through, Oh, you better believe I’ll get there before you even have the chance."
Angel took a step back, taking one last admiring look at her sister. "You’ve really come a long way, Jade. I’m so proud of you—of everything you’ve become, and everything you’re letting yourself be….you ready to do this?”
Jade’s smile softened, and she nodded, grabbing her sister's hand. “Let’s do this” Jade took a deep breath, the weight of the moment settling in, filling her with a combo of nerves and excitement. As she and Angel walked toward the ceremony space, Jade felt a calm wash over her, a confidence that she was about to walk into the best stage of her life with her best friend.
As the soft, acoustic notes of "Spend My Life With You" filled the air, Bianca started to make her way down the hall, to the meeting point with Jade. Angel and her mom, along with the bridesmaids, briefly blocked her view as they were set to walk down the aisle first. The moment they stepped aside, Jade and Bianca’s eyes met, and the world around them seemed to blur. Neither of them could put into words the depth of love that passed between them in that gaze.
They had chosen to walk the last steps to the altar together, hand in hand, symbolizing a commitment to move through life side by side. Jade extended her hand, and Bianca took it without hesitation, both of them trembling slightly, each pulse shared through their linked fingers. Their friends and family, who rose from their seats in silent admiration, watched as they began down the aisle. The warmth of love, support, and anticipation seemed to fill the hall as they moved toward the altar, where everything they'd overcome led them to this singular moment.
When they finally reached the altar and turned to face each other, the intensity in their gazes spoke volumes. Jade’s eyes glistened with emotion, and she didn’t bother to hide them.
The officiant’s voice rose warmly over the desert breeze. "Friends and family, we gather today to honor a love that has chosen, again and again, to stand strong through every joy and challenge. This love is a daily promise—to share life’s moments, to lift each other up, and to face all that lies ahead as one. Today, we celebrate a union rooted in choice, partnership, and a commitment to walk side by side, creating a future filled with love and possibility."
As the moment to exchange vows arrived, Jade spoke first.
“Bianca,” she began, giving her hand a soft squeeze, “I’ve loved you through uncertainty, through every storm and every moment of sunshine. I’ve loved you when it felt impossible, and I’ve loved you when it felt like breathing. Today, I promise to keep choosing you and this love—every morning, every night, and all the moments in between. I promise to be your teammate both on and off the court, your biggest fan, and the place you’ll always call home. You are my heart, my peace, and my everything.”
Bianca took a deep, shaky breath, letting her own tears fall freely as she began her vows, her voice soft yet unwavering.
“Jade, my love for you started as a whisper and grew into a shout that I couldn't ignore.. You saw me, even when I was hiding from myself. You loved me through every fear, every mistake, and every moment of doubt. Today, I vow that you’ll never wonder where you stand with me. I promise to love you fully and openly, to support your dreams, and to build a life where we always choose each other. You’re not just the love of my life; you’re my best friend, my partner, and my future. Loving you is the best choice I ever made, and I’ll spend forever showing you why.”
They exchanged rings, laughter and tears blending in the pure joy of the moment. When the officiant finally pronounced them married, their kiss was met with a wave of cheers and applause, echoing across the room. With fingers still intertwined they descended from the Alter to the reception hall followed by their guest.
The reception that followed was everything they’d imagined—intimate, joyful, and filled with a love that overflowed. Beneath strings of twinkling lights, they shared their first dance to the same song that had played during Jade’s proposal in Bora Bora, wrapped in each other’s arms and the memories of their journey. Teammates and friends surrounded them, forming a circle of support and celebration, the bond they shared on the court extending into this new life they were beginning together.
Later that night, as the celebration faded into memory, Bianca and Jade slipped away to their private desert sanctuary. The villa was a masterpiece of romance—floor-to-ceiling windows showcased the vast, starlit Arizona sky, while hundreds of candles painted the space in warm amber light, casting dancing shadows around the room.
Jade had transformed their suite into an oasis of intimacy. Rose petals created a crimson path through the villa, leading to a private terrace where an infinity pool seemed to merge seamlessly with the horizon. Gauzy white curtains billowed gently in the desert breeze, carrying the intoxicating scent of night-blooming jasmine and desert sage. Every surface was adorned with crystal bowls filled with floating gardenias and orchids, their delicate fragrance mingling with the desert air.
The master suite took their breath away. A magnificent king-sized bed draped in rich silk awaited them, scattered with rose petals and surrounded by the glow of flickering candlelight. French doors opened to their private infinity pool, where the water shimmered under underwater lights that mirrored the stars above.
“You’ve outdone yourself,” Bianca whispered, taking in the romantic scene before her. She had changed into a cream silk robe embroidered with Wife across the back. It hung loose around her body, revealing nothing but bare skin beneath, instantly bringing a smile to Jade’s face.
Jade stepped close, wrapping her arms around Bianca’s waist beneath the robe. “Only the best for my wife,” she spoke softly against Bianca’s ear, her voice a low caress that sent a shiver down Bianca’s spine.
Bianca looked up at her, eyes dark with desire. “I love how that sounds,” she breathed, running her fingers gently along Jade’s jawline. “My wife…” She whispered the words, savoring them as if they were the most precious she’d ever spoken.
Jade pulled her even closer. Their lips met in a passionate, lingering kiss. “Let’s go out to the pool,” Bianca whispered breathlessly against Jade’s lips, their kiss intensifying as she pulled back slightly.
“Outside?” Jade raised an intrigued brow.
“Outside,” Bianca confirmed, a daring grin lighting up her face.
With a nod, Jade let Bianca’s robe slip from her shoulders, her own following, before grabbing the champagne and a bowl of strawberries on the way out. She placed them along the edge of the pool as she dipped in, the cool water instantly refreshing against her skin. Bianca rested on the edge, her legs wrapping around Jade’s torso as Jade swam between them, both lingering in the shallow end. Jade gently fed strawberries to her bride, planting kisses along Bianca’s skin.
“You know, if anyone’s got drones out here, we’re screwed,” Jade laughed, pressing a kiss between Bianca’s breasts.
“Then we’d better make it worth the risk,” Bianca murmured, pulling Jade’s face to hers in a deep, longing kiss. Jade pulled her closer to the edge of the pool, her fingers finding their way between Bianca’s legs. With each gentle touch, Bianca’s moans drifted into the warm night air. The desire between them felt electric, charged by their new union and the promise of forever.
Jade slid her fingers inside Bianca’s warmth, her other hand massaging her clit in slow, practiced circles as their kiss deepened. Bianca’s body responded eagerly, hips rolling in rhythm with Jade’s touch. Their movements grew more feverish as Jade’s teasing intensified, her desire growing with each gasp and shiver from Bianca.
Unable to resist, Jade pushed Bianca back against the pool’s edge, guiding her legs onto her shoulders before indulging in her with an insatiable hunger. Each soft cry from Bianca only fueled Jade’s need, drawing her deeper into the rhythm of their love. Long licks and deliberate flicks of her tongue brought Bianca to the edge over and over, leaving her breathless and craving more.
After what felt like a blissful eternity, they moved inside, Jade slipping into her favorite harness. She positioned herself on the bed, and Bianca straddled her, face to face, chest to chest, their bodies perfectly in sync. They moved together in seamless harmony, each touch and kiss driving them to new heights. Their soft “I love yous” and gasping pleas to never let the night end filled the room as they took turns savoring each other, bodies locked in a fiery rhythm that seemed to carry them through endless waves of pleasure.
By dawn, they lay entwined, their breathing finally slowing, hearts racing as they basked in a closeness that felt stronger than ever—a bond that bound them wholly, mind, body, and soul.