Camille’s Quinceanera







“Camille, wake up right this moment! We have to get to rehearsals in an hour!” The yells of my mother wake me from my undisturbed sleep.
“Ugh! Ok, I’ll be ready in an hour!” I yell back. I throw off my covers and abruptly get up from bed. I hop into the shower and am greeted with the hot waterfall. After my shower, I head to my closet and pick out a pair of white shorts and a lacy floral top.
Deciding to air dry my hair, I head downstairs and say good morning to my father,
“Buenas dias!” my father greets me as I enter the kitchen.
“Hi papi, where’s mom?” I ask curious as to where my mother has gone when we are to leave in less than 20 minutes.
“She went to go get her purse; I suggest you go to the car before she has a cow.” My father says, while chuckling to himself. I nod in agreement and kiss my father on the cheek goodbye. I go to our shoe closet and take out my white sandals that have a flower on the buckle. As I’m heading to the car I see my 2 older brothers playing baseball in the front yard. I’m surprised to see my older brother back from college so early in the week.
“Hey Camille!” My oldest brother, Jose greets me with a wave and a smile.
“Hey! When did you get here?”
“Just about an hour ago,” Jose answers back.
“Ok, err well I gotta go, see ya!” I yell getting into the car. I roll down the window to say goodbye to my two brothers, Jose and Carlos.
“About time you’re ready! Honestly Camille,” my mom spats at me as I roll my window back up.
“Sorry mom, I overslept.” I reply. My mother just shakes her head at this and puts our black Escalade into drive, and we head off to the church. We arrive at the church about 10 minutes later, which means we arrived just on time. Our church isn’t too big, but it isn’t too small. It is white inside and out and has the virgin of Guadalupe on the front steps. As we get inside, I look around trying to spot my damas and chambelanes. Then, I see them all in a big circle laughing. As I’m walking over there, they all see me and run over to me to be greeted by hugs. I find myself getting practically tackled by my best friend Tere.


My best friend, Tere has always been the center of attention no matter what. She really doesn’t want it that way, but it’s always been like that since she was born. Tere was your typical teenager. She had bright hazel eyes with long brown curly hair that stopped at her hips. Today she was wearing a floral skirt with a simple lacy tank top that hugged her curves. Tere has a small petite body, but she’s almost always wearing heels so she’s usually tall.
“Is Maria here yet?” I ask, even though I know the answer.
“No! She’s late as always,” Tere rolled her eyes as she said this, and as if on cue, in walked Maria. Her midnight black hair was pulled into a fishtail braid that stopped at her waist. She was wearing a floral maxi dress that she obviously wore with wedges. Maria was my other best friend. Tere, Maria, and I have stuck with each other since second grade. As she came over to us, we could all hear her wedge heals hitting the pavement, click click click.
“Sorry I’m late,” she said sounding very sincere.
“That’s ok,” I reassured her. We all went to our seats to begin the mass rehearsal.


After the mass rehearsals, which went pretty good, we all decided to go to the nearest pizza parlor. As we arrived to the nearest pizza parlor, we all separated into different groups and sat at different tables. The pizza parlor was fairly small and not many people were there. Tere, Maria, and I all sat at the same small round table.
“So excited for your big day?” Maria asked.
“Yes, but,” I was cut off by Tere,
“But what?”
“You guys know what,” They looked at each other knowingly. They know exactly what is wrong, but they never really understood. How could they? I looked over to where he was sitting. His black hair under his navy blue snapback. I stared for a while, and then he caught me looking. He just nodded his head at me and I waved back. The way he looked at me made my heart skip a beat, and then there’s that perfect smile of his that always makes me melt inside.
“Hello!” Tere’s voice interrupted my thoughts.
“What sorry, kinda spaced there,” I muttered.
“Yeah, thinking about Juan,” Maria said, smirking. An hour later we were all done and decided to leave.
“So, what are you all gonna do?” I asked, mostly curious about Juan.
“We’re gonna play soccer,” my cousin Salvador said, “Wanna come?”
“Sure!” I replied excitedly. And with that we all walked over to the park.


Everyone knows the whole story between Juan and me. So of course, they put us on the same team as co-captains. The game was very intense, and my team ended up winning. But, throughout the whole game Juan ignored me. It was obvious to me and to everyone else. It was getting late, so I decided to go home and said goodbye to everyone. As I started walking I felt someone grab my hand, then a voice spoke. A voice that I know very well, and could never in a million years, forget- his.


“Camille, wait!” the sound of his voice made me stop and my eyes widened, at both his voice and his touch. What could he possibly want?


“Yeah?” I asked. This time I was facing him.


“Can I walk you home?”


“Uhh, no that’s ok”


“C’mon Camille! It’s getting dark, I wouldn’t want anything to happen to you,” He protested with pleading eyes.


“Ok,” I finally caved; a smile crept across his face seeing as though I had just said yes.


“Great!” he responds with the biggest grin plastered on his face.


Why does he want to walk me home? Had my cousins convinced him or…? What if he’s going to ask me, AGAIN? The silence between us is very awkward. I can’t stand it. He finally broke the silence,


“So, anything new with you?”


“No, not really. I’ve just been really busy with planning and all.” I replied.


“Ok, look I know you’re probably wondering why I decided to walk you home, right?” He asked.


“Well yeah. The last time we had a real conversation was when.. Err, well you know when,” I finished, looking away from him to hide the red creeping up in my cheeks. I’m instantly filled with embarrassment.


“When I asked you out, you mean?”


“Err, yeah..” I replied even more embarrassed.


“Oh,” he says with sadness. His sadness was killing me.


“Look Juan,” I began, “I really like you. Like a lot. But, you know how my parents are and my family and the fact that both of our families are so close,” I continued, “Also I’m just not ready to have a boyfriend. Especially now, considering I’ve been really busy.” The only response I got from him was just a nod. And that one little nod is killing me inside. It was a very slow nod, and he let his head hang in disappointment. Why couldn’t he just understand?


Before I know it, we’re standing in front of my house. Just as I was about to say thank you and goodnight, he cut me off. And then suddenly, I feel his soft lips on mine. It seems as if the whole world stops. The kiss is over all too soon. And before I can respond, he’s already walking down the street.


“See ya!” He says waving back at me.


“Goodnight,” I whisper. Even though I’m fully aware that he can’t hear me.

*2 days later*


“Camille, did you do all of your final plans?” Maria asks me.


“Err yeah,” I respond, a little distracted. It was a typical Wednesday night. We have always had three-night-sleepovers starting on Wednesday. This time though, Tere couldn’t come. Maria is helping me make sure that everything is confirmed and ready for this Saturday, the big day. She’s also helping me get my mind off of Juan and the whole kiss that happened 2 days ago. It completely confused me, considering he hadn’t called or texted me. He barely even looked at me during rehearsals. But, honestly he was and has been the last thing on my mind. All of these last minute Quinceanera preparations are stressing me out. I need to relax. Luckily for me, today is that day.


“CAMILLE!!!” Maria’s yelling brings me back to reality.


“Can we just please stop talking about all of this? It’s stressing me out even more,” I ask, completely exhausted.


“Sure,” she continued, “anything for the Quinceanera.” She finishes with a wink. For the next hour or so, we spend it by talking about mindless things. Two things we didn’t talk about for sure is, Juan and my Quinceanera.


“I wonder why Tere couldn’t come,” Maria asks.


“Err, who knows. Knowing her she’s probably out with Luis again.” I respond half annoyed. You see Luis is my cousin; he’s exactly four months older than me. He’s probably one of the sweetest guys, but Tere has a reputation. A bad one. And Luis is well aware of this reputation, but of course he could care less. Me on the other hand? I care. I mean who wouldn’t? She’s my best friend and he’s my cousin! Practically my brother! I can’t have them being together, then maybe breaking up before my quince. But, then again my quince is in two days. I’m pretty sure they won’t break up in two days. But what if they do? Camille stop! Stop being selfish and paranoid! My thoughts are quickly starting to stress me out even more then I already am. The sound of my ringtone gets me out of my daze. “Pasame Un Bote” by Banda MS fills my room.


“Hello?” I ask, who could be calling at this time? I didn’t bother to look at the caller ID when I answered.


“C-C-Camille, can you come get me?” Instantly I know who it is. Tere. And I can tell she’s been crying.


“”Yeah, where are you?” I ask concerned.


“I’m at the p-p-park,” she stutters. I already know something is wrong.


“We’ll be right there,” I reply instantly scared of what could’ve happened. Maria raises her eyebrows, but she already knows whom I was just talking to. We hurry up and put on our shoes and sweaters. Considering its nighttime already and the fall air is pretty chilly at night. We arrive at the park in about 10 minutes, considering that neither of us are old enough to drive. Instantly, we spot her.


She’s on one of the old rusty park benches. She has mascara running down her face, probably from crying. Her hair is a total mess, pointing in every direction. We immediately run over to her with wide eyes.


“What happened?” Maria asks demanding answers.


“So much happened,” She says with more tears running down her cheeks.


“Like what? Tere, tell us! You know you can trust us!” I yell, with a hint of anger in my voice. Why won’t she just tell us?


“Well, I was gonna go out with Luis. But he said he couldn’t go because he got grounded. So, I decided to go to the club on my own,” she slurred her words in between sobs, “and he was there with his friends and I got mad. So to make him jealous I decided to dance with…” she paused.


“With who?” Maria asked cautious.


“With, with, J-Juan..” she replied quickly looking down at her hands. Maria’s eyes widened and she turned to look at me. I couldn’t believe what I just had heard. My best friend since second grade danced with my long time crush. The one that I had cried over before, the one that had asked me out, the one that had kissed me!


“You just danced? Right? Please tell me that’s all you did,” I pleaded suddenly feeling nauseous.


“I, I kissed him…” she said. Tears filled her eyes even more. Maria looked at me with sympathy. How could my best friend do this to me? Tears threaten to spill, but I push them back.


“Ok, clearly this is a problem. But, we can work it out. We always can.” Maria said trying to reassure us. I still hadn’t moved or spoken since Tere just spoke. Suddenly, a tear rolled down my cheek.


“Camille! I’m so sorry! You have to believe me, I didn’t mean it!” Tere pleaded me to forgive her.


“What happened after that?” I ask.


“Uhh..” Tere was hiding something, I could tell.


“Jesus Christ! What else happened! Just tell me!” I yell with anger in my voice, pure anger.


“We kissed for a really long time, and we kept dancing. It would’ve gone further.. But, that was when Luis cut in and hit Juan. He said that Juan doesn’t deserve you and that that my reputation is true, ”she slurred sobbing her eyes out,“ and then he left.” She finished. How could this be happening? Why? Why to me? And with my Quinceanera only two days away, how will I be able to confront both of them? On the day that’s supposed to be the best day of my life?


“Well, maybe Luis is right. I’m leaving. Bye.” I say with anger and betrayal in my voice. I start to run away and I keep running and running not caring about where I go. I finally stop and find that I’m at the local grocery store. I head back home, luckily my parents are out and knowing my brothers they probably were out. I go inside only to find my two older brothers standing the kitchen. They stop laughing when they see me.


I don’t say a word and neither do they. I just run up to my room, crying. They keep trying to see if I’m ok, but I refuse to let anyone see me. Before I know it, I fell into deep sleep thinking about what just happened a couple of minutes ago. I’ve always been there for Tere and this is how she repays me? I never thought she would do that to me. I wake up to my mom vacuuming the house. I quickly change into my black sweatpants and an old Disney shirt. I throw my hair up into a messy bun and quickly run downstairs.


“Good morning sleepy head,” my mom greets overly excited. I take it that neither Jose nor Carlos told mom or dad about the previous night. Thank god, I think.


“Morning mom!” I respond trying to sound as excited as she is. Today is the second to last day to be able to rehearse the waltz and surprise dance. That means that I have to face Tree and Juan today, and I am not ready for that. Especially, since almost no one knows about it and all of my cousins will be there. Along with my mother. Today is going to be a long day. At least I’ll have Maria there with me.


“Go get ready, we have practice in 2 hours.” My mom ordered me. I nodded in agreement and ran upstairs to get ready. As I get in to my room I’m greeted by cool air, and that’s when I realize that my window is open. Hmm, I wonder how long that’s been open, just as I was about to close the window I heard a voice behind me.


“Camille, I really am sorry. It honestly didn’t mean anything. I would never intentionally kiss Juan and have it mean something. I forgot to tell you that well, I was drunk last night. I had a couple of drinks and then that’s when the kiss happened. After I drank!” she slurred her words, on the verge of crying.


‘I believe you,” I whisper looking down at my hands. I honestly did. But I was still unsure about one thing, did I forgive her?


“Thank you for believing me. But will you forgive me? Our friendship is way too important to throw away over a dumb boy. Please forgive me. I honestly don’t think I can continue if my best friend is mad at me for a drunken mistake. Please, you have to believe me.” She finished with tears running down her face. Now I know for sure that she’s being sincere and honest.


“It’s ok. I believe you and I forgive you. It’s not your fault and I honestly would not want our friendship to be thrown away over a boy either. Don’t worry, all I care about is our friendship.” I finished with shaky breaths. Next thing I know, I’m engulfed into a hug and I hug her back just as tightly.


“Well, I have to go before my mom discovers I’ve been gone,” she says with a laugh I laugh along with her.


“Bye, see you at rehearsals!” she yells, right before jumping out of the window. I was relieved that Tere and I made up. I honestly don’t know what I would do without her. We’ve been best friends since second grade that’s too much just to be thrown away over a boy. I decide to hop into the shower. The hot water hits my body. After my shower I change and let my hair air dry causing it to be even more wavy than usual. By the time I’m completely finished my mom starts calling me to get to the car. “Coming!” I yell back while getting my phone. Once I get to the car I pass my brothers.


“You ok?” Carlos asks, looking genuinely concerned.


“Yeah, way better now. Promise!” I respond with a smile. Just to reassure them. They nod their heads and wave goodbye. My mom quickly drives to the hall where the reception is being held. We get to practice here for the next two days to prepare ourselves for the big day. As we enter I see that almost everyone is there, almost. There are only two people who aren’t here and those two people are, Juan and Luis.


“Uhh, where’s Juan and Luis?” I say worried about the response.


“Who knows, but after what happened the other night it wouldn’t surprise me if they’re fighting,” Salvador suggests, shaking his head. My eyes widen at the thought. What if they are? Oh my god! They could be fighting over my best friend!


“Oh my god! We have to find them!!!” I exclaimed fully concerned. What if Luis or Juan is beating the other one up! Oh my god! I need to find them!


“Does anybody have any idea where they are!” Tere says almost as concerned as I am.


“Nope, probably at the park though. I mean, that is where all the fighting happens,” Salvador reminds. He’s right that’s where everybody went to fight. Even though the cops could easily find them and arrest them or something. Boys in our neighborhood aren’t very bright, like at all.


“Let’s go then!” Maria yells. We all rush to the park not caring about our mothers, who by the way we left at the hall. The reception hall wasn’t too far away from the park. About five minutes driving and ten minutes walking. Seeing as though all of us ran we got there in about five minutes and sure enough there they were. Juan and Luis. And by the looks of it they were about ready to fight each other. Well only Luis, Juan looked as if he didn’t want to. Figures. As we get closer, I realize that they are fighting about me! Me!


“You don’t deserve her! She was right to not say yes to you!” Luis roared. I had never seen him this mad. Luis was usually a really sweet and outgoing guy who rarely ever lost his temper. So this was a shock to me and everyone else apparently. Juan stood back and right then he noticed we were all there. He immediately looked at me, he gave me pleading eyes as if saying sorry. I ignored them.


“Luis stop! Don’t do this, it won’t solve anything. He’s not worth it!” I say with pleading eyes trying to hold him back from lunging at Juan. As much as I didn’t like Juan right now, I was not going to let my cousin do this. Especially when my Quinceanera is two days away.


“Yeah, c’mon Luis don’t do this. You’re going to ruin a special day for Camille. You’re gonna make her not look forward to it considering you and Juan will be there. Just let it go,” Salvador said, helping me keep Luis at a good distance between him and Juan. Thank god for my cousin. Salvador and Luis are the only guy cousins that I really trust and can get along with. They’re like my brothers.


“Fine, but like I said before you don’t and never will deserve Camille!” Luis spat at Juan, giving him a disgusted look. Everyone was looking from me to Juan. I know that not all of them know what’s actually going on, but one thing’s for sure, is that Luis is pissed.


“Luis just stop. Ok, it’s done with.” I said looking at the ground. I can’t face Juan. I could barely do that at the reception hall but now it’s worse. Way worse. “Can we please just go and practice. Please, that’s the least all of you guys can do for me. You guys can’t just bail out now, please.” I pleaded. Everyone exchanged glances.


“Of course not,” Maria began, “we’re here to make sure your big day is the best day of your life. Not to make it bad! We would never abandon you, got it?” I laughed and nodded my head. And right then and there I realized something. I realized that these are the people who have stuck by my side for the last month and a half. They hadn’t bailed or left when I got overbearing, they were there through it all. All of my temper tantrums, all of my stuck up behavior, everything. Even if I don’t like Juan right now, he’s stuck by my side through it all. He’s been there with me, even after I rejected him. And after all those awkward situations and even now. I looked at all of them and smiled. And then I did something that probably none of them would’ve expected, considering what just happened.


I hugged Juan. And it wasn’t one of those awkward hugs that we’ve had before. But a real hug. One that you would give to your best friend, to your sibling, to a parent, or to anyone special in your life. And that’s what Juan is. He’s someone special in my life. No matter what he did to hurt me, he will always be there for me. Because I’m important to him too. I smile thinking about this. The hug lasted pretty long, at first he was hesitant to hug me back. But he did and that hug was my reassurance to him. That everything was all right, and that I forgive him. Everyone’s awws ruined the moment. I turn to Luis.


“Thank you. For protecting me. I love you for that. And I know that both Tere and Juan are very sorry. And I believe that what happened between them was all just a drunken mistake that meant nothing. I also believe that Tere and you belong together, no matter how much you guys fight. You guys really love each other and that’s all that matters,” I continued, “And I know that if anyone ever hurts me, you’ll be there for me. Because you’re like my brother. And I love you for caring about me. But, you have to trust me on this, I know what I’m doing and I know how to take care of myself,” I finish with a reassuring smile. Luis looks at me with a smile on his face and right then and there I know that everything will be ok. Ok between Tere and I, Juan and I, Juan and Luis, and Luis and Tere. And I know that all of these people around me will help make Saturday an amazing day for me.


“I know,” Luis continues, “I love you too. You’re the sister I’ve always wanted and I know that you can take care of yourself. And I know that they didn’t mean it. I guess I just wanted to take my anger out on Juan.” I knew exactly what he was talking about, his parents are getting a divorce and he has anger built up inside him.


“It’s ok, just apologize.” I reassure him. He nods his head and turns to Juan.


“Look dude, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean any of the words I said to you. I really didn’t. No hard feelings right?” Luis offers his apology. Juan still looks uneasy after the whole episode that just happened.


“It’s all good.” Juan replied shaking Luis’ hand smiling. Luis returned the gesture.


“Oh, and if you ever hurt Camille, you will be dead.” Luis says dead serious. Juan’s eyes widen in horror. And then Luis bursts out laughing. We all join in, including Juan.


“Ok you two! Let’s go practice.” I said while laughing. They all shook their heads and started walking back to the reception hall. Tere and Luis walked beside each other holding hands. They almost never really discuss what they’ve fought about they just make up. They were one weird couple, but they were adorable together. I smile to myself thinking about them. Juan’s hand brushes against mine as he starts to walk beside me. I shiver at his touch.


“So, you forgive me?” Juan asks worried. I look up to him, he’s about five inches taller than me. I smile warmly at him.


“Yeah. I honestly do. You made a mistake. And I mean yeah it was with my best friend, but it was a mistake that didn’t mean anything. And as long as it didn’t mean anything, then I’m ok.” I finish looking at him seriously. He looks taken aback at what I had just said. Then he puts on that stupid grin of his.


“Good, cause I don’t know what I would do if you were mad at me. I really am sorry and it honestly meant nothing. I only want you.” He said, with his big brown eyes looking right into my soul.


“I know. But this is your last chance.” I said winking at him. He laughed his amazing laugh. And then he reached out and held my hand. The rest of the walk there we were holding hands. The rest of that day went pretty good. Tere and Maria ended up sleeping over at my house. And I was nervous, big time. Tomorrow was my last day to make sure I’m ready and that everything is prepared for my big day. After we got ready for bed and made our sleeping arrangements, we all lay down and relaxed.


“So everything is good between you two right?” Maria asked breaking the silence.


“Yeah!” I responded with a smile.


“Yay!” Maria exclaimed. We all burst into laughter and fell asleep quickly.


*The next night*


After the longest day of my life I finally got relax and lay in bed. Today was hectic and nerve wrecking. My mom and I had to make sure everything was ready and set for tomorrow. And let me tell you, it was not easy. We had spent the last 10 hours either arguing or compromising with vendors about last minute changes or confirmations that still needed to be made. My mom and I had barely gotten five minutes of relaxing since we’ve woken up. And tomorrow is the big day and I am completely nervous. I can barely sleep. What ifs keep going through my mind. What if everything goes wrong? Oh my if it did, I would be so depressed. This is the day I’ve been waiting for my whole life and it’ll finally be here tomorrow. I’ll finally be a woman and I get to spend one of the most important days in my life with the people who I love the most and who have been with me since day one. I’m both nervous and excited, I can’t go to sleep with all of these thoughts going on through my mind. I held a quick practice with all my damas and chambelanes to make sure everyone knew what they were doing. It only lasted about 40 minutes though, considering I had to go with my mom to check on other stuff. I barely got to talk to Maria, Tere, Juan, Luis, Salvador, or anyone for that matter. And tomorrow I would see everyone. All of my friends and family. It would be more than just a regular day; I wouldn’t be dressed in jeans and a shirt. I would be all fancy with my dress and make up. I’ll be wearing make up for the first time in my whole life. That’s a big thing. Tomorrow is my big day.


*The next morning, my Quinceanera.*


I woke up to the shrills of my parents and brothers. Today is my big day. Finally. I smile to myself and get up to see that it’s four thirty-five in the morning. I knew my mother would be up at this time, seeing as though we had to make sure to be ready for the hairstylist to come and do our hair. She is due to be here in about thirty minutes. I decide to head into the shower, knowing my mother she’ll want to get her hair done first. Which will give me enough time for my hair to dry. I head in to the shower. After I’m done showering, I change and see that it’s four fifty-eight. The hairstylist will be here any minute. I head downstairs to eat something. I’m greeted by Jose, Carlos, and my dad.


“There’s the Quinceanera!” Carlos says with a smirk. I glare at him, he knows fairly well that I hate when people call me that. It’s just too corny for me. But today it didn’t bother me, it was finally my day.


“Morning princesa!” my father greets me while giving me a big hug and kiss on the forehead.


“Morning papi!” I greet just as excited. My dad has always been waiting for this day. Yeah, sure everyone says that this day is supposed to be the day that I’m officially becoming a woman. But my dad doesn’t want me to grow up yet, so he’s been pretty nervous for this day. Although, I’m not quite ready to become a woman, and not be daddy’s little girl. We eat our breakfast and that’s when I realize mom isn’t at the table or in the kitchen.


“Where’s mom?” I ask curiously.


“The hairstylist has been here since four in the morning. They’re in the living room.” Jose responds yawning. I just nod my head. After finishing my breakfast I decide to see my mom. As soon as she sees me she greets me with a huge hug and smile on her face.


“Morning mija! It’s finally you’re Quinceanera!” she beams excitedly.


“I know! I’m so excited. And also nervous.” I say looking down at my hands.


“Don’t be! It’s going to be perfect!” she reassured me. I nod my head knowing she’s right. The whole next eight hours are of my preparation. From my hair to my make up to my dress! It was hectic and exciting! Next thing I know, we’re off to church. When I get there everyone greets me and compliments me on how pretty and gorgeous I look! I barely get time to talk to them, because church starts about ten minutes after I arrive.


Church went perfectly smooth. And it’s just the start! Once church is over all of my damas and chambelanes get into the limo and we drive off to take pictures. Next thing I know, we finally arrive at the reception hall. And just about everyone is there. I’m greeted by many people, complimenting on various things.


It all goes very smoothly after everyone finishes eating; my damas and chambelanes begin to get ready for the waltz and surprise dance. It all went smoothly and thankfully no one messed up. Then came my turn to say a few words to my guests.


“Hi everyone. First I would like to thank all of you for coming tonight and helping me celebrate this very big day with me. You all mean so much to me and I couldn’t have asked for a better family or better friends. Thank you to all of my damas and chambelanes, you guys have stuck with all of my drama since day one. Which really means a lot to me. Also I would like to thank my brothers for always being there for me and protecting and looking after me. We may get into many fights and tease each other, but I love you guys with all my heart,” I continue, “And I would like to thank the two most important people in my life. Those two people are my mom and dad. I love you both with all of my heart. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it weren’t for you two. You’ve given me so much and I couldn’t have asked for better parents. I love you both so much, I am so thankful for you, mom and dad. And to all of you guys, you’ve all made my life even better and I couldn’t have asked for better people in my life. Thank you all for coming, I love you and I hope you have a good time here!” I finish with tears springing to my eyes.


Right then and there I realize that I can’t take all of the people in my life for granted. They’ve been with me through everything and I couldn’t imagine life without them. I walk over to where Juan, Luis, and Salvador are standing. They’re talking and laughing like the good friends they are.


“Hey Camille, that was an amazing speech.” Luis compliments me.


“You really think so?” they all nod their heads in agreement. “Aww thanks guys. That means a lot!” I say with a smile on my face.


“You’re very welcome and also, you look really pretty today! Doesn’t she Juan?” Salvador puts in, grinning at Juan. I feel my face turn pure red.


“She sure does. But she always does.” Juan says smiling at me. I smile back blushing even more.


‘Thanks!” I respond, a little too cheerful.


“Well, we’ll leave you two alone.” Luis cooed, winking at both of us. Juan laughs and as do I.


“You really do look beautiful today.” Juan says once Luis and Salvador are gone.


“Aww, thanks Juan. That means a lot.” I say, feeling my face turn even redder.


‘You’re welcome.” And then before I can respond, he kisses me, AGAIN! It’s a very sweet and short kiss. Once we pull away we’re surrounded by all of our friends and my cousins. And we start to all head to the dance floor. Everyone is on the dance floor. And honestly, I couldn’t have asked for a better family, better friends,a better boyfriend, or a better Quinceanera. It’s everything I wished for.





The End.