Chapter 1


December 17, 2011
Troy and Gabriella had just gotten back to Troy's house after going out to an early birthday dinner for Gabriella. The crisp, cold winter air swirled around them as they made their way to the door and hurried inside, and a few stray snowflakes fell from the sky.

"So, Brie..." Troy began. "I was gonna wait until your actual birthday to give you your gift, but since we already went out to dinner for an early celebration, I might as well just give it to you now."

Gabriella smiled. What had Troy gotten her? A new bracelet? A scrapbook of some special pictures they had taken together over the years? New bedding? All those things were items she had talked about wanting before, and from her other birthdays, she knew that Troy always liked to give her what she wanted.

"Gabriella Anne Montez," Troy spoke, getting down on one knee. "We've been together for exactly five years, three months, and eleven days. I've given you two promise rings, we've shared lots of secrets, gave each other our most sacred moments...and now I think it's time for me to ask this question: Will you marry me?" He pulled a small box from his pocket and opened it to reveal a diamond ring.

The smile on Gabriella's face faded. "No...no, I don't think I can do this. I'm not ready. You're the only guy I dated for more than two weeks. I don't have enough experience with relationships."

"We don't have to get married right away. We can wait a couple more years. I just wanted you to have this ring to show the world that you're officially mine."

"You don't understand! I don't even want to be engaged!" Tears sprang to Gabriella's eyes. "I...I can't do this anymore. I need a break." With that, she turned around and rushed through the door.

"Brie! Where are you going?" Troy called, running after Gabriella.

"Home," Gabriella answered bluntly.

"But your car's not here."

"I'll get a limo or taxi or something. I just...I just can't stay here. I just can't be with you."

"Why? Listen, you don't even have to get engaged to me! I can put the ring away and give it to you later when you feel ready to wear it." Troy was desperate.

"But it's not fair to you!" Gabriella burst out. "If you're ready to settle down and get married, you should be able to without having to wait for me."

Troy felt a tear drop onto his cheek. "But I want to marry you! Not some other girl! Brie, trust me; I want you. I'll wait for you. I'll wait forever if that's how long it takes you to feel ready to be my wife."

"But you shouldn't have to wait!" Gabriella sniffled and, taking a tissue from her purse, dabbed at her eyes.

"I don't mind waiting! I promise!"

"Still...I don't want to hold you back."

"So does this mean...does this mean you're breaking up with me?" Troy's voice was hoarse.

"Not exactly...I just...I just want a little break," said Gabriella quietly. "Just to think things over, maybe spend some time with other guys...I mean, this relationship was my first real one. I need to make sure I want to commit to it for life. And I think it would be good for you to get to know some other girls, too."

"I told you before, I don't want another girl!"

Sighing, Gabriella ran a hand through her curls. "I really have to go, Troy." She wrapped her arms around his waist. "I love you...and I'll miss you...but what has to be done has to be done." At this point, she was sobbing.

"I love you, too." Troy's tears fell into Gabriella's hair. "More than I could ever tell you."

When Troy and Gabriella pulled apart, Gabriella stood on her tiptoes so she could kiss Troy's cheek, then, with a sad smile, turned away and walked out of his sight.


Hello Everybody. This is my first story for fanfiction and I would love it you guys took it easy on me. However, I love honest criticism. Thankyou so much for reading it. Review and let me know what you guys think! Chao!