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Caesar didn’t expect this moment to come as quickly as it did. Thinking how it was just 5 years ago when he was introduced to Joseph by both their grandparents and 2 and a half years since they started dating. It was time to step into adulthood, leaving behind the endless classes, the so-awaited breaks, and most importantly of all, his college life with his boyfriend. It gave him such a nostalgic feeling like his good days were already over.
Looking back at how he was consoling Joseph because of this a few days back made Ceasar giggle. He couldn’t believe he was now the one feeling down because of a thing that eventually had to come. He really should take into consideration what he said to him back then; when you finish one page, there’s already another one waiting to be read.
Moments after the voice of the principal through the microphone shut down the loud chattering in the auditorium as he began to call each student to receive their diploma and shake hands. Caesar looked at the seat next to him where Joseph sat, squishing his hand in a reassuring way.
- Jojo, I have a surprise for you once the ceremony is over. So look forward to it and don’t take your eyes off me - he said while giving him a wink and standing as his name was called. - I’ll see you later; wish me luck.
- As Caesar made his way upstairs, multiple flashes began to sound, Joseph holding a professional camera, giving instructions to everyone near him - Gramps, be sure to capture his best angle! You too, Grandma! We have to send them to his family back in Italy, and also I need them for my room. - Joseph's smile was huge as he looked at his boyfriend through the lens; he was shining on this special day, feeling so proud of him.
When the final ceremonial photo with the whole promotion was over, Joseph didn’t waste a single second to rush over to Caesar, hugging him and giving him a bunch of kisses on his face, congratulating him over and over again. Only interrupted by the fake cough of Joseph's mom, Lisa Lisa, instructing them to go over to the gym, as the party for the students was about to begin.
The iconic rhythm of bachata could be heard from outside, and inside was not different, with a bunch of people dancing to the beat in the center, enjoying the passion and energy of the music. Joseph took Caesar’s hand in his, guiding him to the dance floor.
- Wait, Jojo! - Said Caesar, protesting, trying to slow Joseph down. - I don’t know how to dance to this genre of music.
- To that, Joseph only waved a hand, dismissing it. - Don’t worry about it; you know that I made various trips a few years ago, right? I became the master of bachata on my vacation in the Dominican Republic. Just follow my rhythm, okay?
- Caesar just nodded in an unsure way, holding both Joseph’s hands, looking down at his feet while they danced. - Just don’t complain if I step on you; you brought this upon yourself.
- Joseph laughed at him - I doubt you will; we have to move sideways most of the time, just two steps to one side, moving your hips and shifting your weight, then repeat it but to the other side; it’s easy, you will see.
Caesar bit his lips while concentrating on every move, trying to follow Joseph’s instructions, tripping sometimes with his feet. At that Joseph moved his hand to Caesar’s waist, guiding him through the music.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the gym waited most of the students' families, including Caesar’s in-laws. Just looking with smiles on their faces at the scene in front of them. How joyful they were dancing, grinning like idiots while laughing at every missed turn they made.
As the day reached the end, everyone began to say their goodbyes. Caesar and Joseph weren’t the exception; they made their way out to continue the special day, but this time alone. Both began to walk with their hands linked under the starry sky, just going forward with no destination, enjoying the feeling of just being together.
The pair stopped when they arrived at a little park, laying down on the grass, contemplating the stars while talking about anything that came to their mind.
- Caesar, you told me you had a surprise for me; what is it?
Caesar rolled to his side, holding his head with his hand while looking directly at Joseph with a soft smile.
- Now that I graduated, you know I will begin to work for my grandpa's company, right?
- Yes, we talked about it, but it is in Italy… I don’t think you leaving is a surprise, you know? - Joseph said while pouting.
- Caesar giggled at his expression - Obviously I know that, dummy. Actually, with the help of your grandpa, mine is opening a branch here in London, and he wants me to take over the position of its CEO. - A huge smile spread through Joseph’s face, getting ready to jump over to hug Caesar. At this he quickly spoke. - Wait, Jojo! I haven’t finished.
- But let me at least hug you; you don’t know how happy I am that you're staying here. I was already planning how many days I could go to Italy per month, but now you just resolved it all!
- Ugh, just let me finish, moron. I just got my own place; since now I'm living here permanently for some time, and I also can't stay in the college dorms anymore. But your surprise is this one. - Caesar looked away quite shyly as he searched for something in his pocket. - Here’s a spare key for my apartment; you can come anytime you want, but don’t come every single day. You pay the dorms rent for something. But once you graduate you can move in with me or something like that…
- Caesar!!
Joseph’s call for Caesar was the last thing heard before he threw himself on top of his boyfriend, making them roll over on the grass. Joseph kissing Caesar’s face nonstop, incapable of containing his happiness.
- I love you so much, Caesar!
- I love you too, Jojo…
As his feelings echoed on the air, the pair linked their lips together, looking forward to what the future had in store for both of them.