Jaxton and I had grown up as childhood friends, living across the hall from each other.

We attended the same elementary, middle, and high schools and even ended up at the same university. Jaxton had sacrificed his chance to attend a better school just to be with me, which made his mother resent me deeply.

I never expected Jaxton to go to such lengths for me. I even watched him carefully when it came time to choose his major and was surprised when he changed his plans on a whim.

When I approached him with tear-filled eyes, he just laughed it off, pulling me into his arms with a carefree smile. "With your sweet nature, how could I trust you won't be bullied if I'm not around? I can't risk it."

He gently wiped my tears away, his youthful warmth enveloping me. He nuzzled my neck, much like a loyal dog showing affection for its owner. "Don't cry! If you want to thank me, then just marry me."

So, we spent our college years in a bubble of sweet affection. As Jaxton began to make a name for himself and start his own business, I was by his side through the ups and downs.