Possessively Mine

Celebration at Velours

The next morning, Lilia stepped into the crisp air, following her usual routine as she headed to her college campus.

But today, everything felt different. The world around her seemed brighter, the familiar streets more beautiful.

A quiet but powerful happiness filled her chest, warming her from the inside out. She couldn’t remember the last time she had smiled so freely, without any lingering anxiety or fear of failure weighing her down.

The moment she reached the entrance gates, a warm memory rushed over her to the call she had made yesterday, her hands trembling with excitement as she dialed the two people who mattered most. Her parents. Not her biological ones, but the ones who had chosen her, loved her, and made her dreams their own. She could still hear their joyful voices in her mind, filled with pride and overwhelming emotion

When they answered, she could barely hold back her excitement.

"I got in," she breathed, her voice breaking with emotion. "I got into the hospital!"

There was a pause, stunned silence and then an eruption of pure joy on the other end. Her mother’s voice trembled as she praised her, and her father’s hearty laughter rumbled through the speaker, full of pride and overwhelming happiness. They were crying, she could tell. And so was she.

Lilia stood still for a moment. She closed her eyes and whispered a silent promise to herself.

They protected me when I had nothing. Now it’s my turn. I’ll protect them, no matter what. I’ll make sure they never have to worry about anything again.

Memories rushed through her mind. The day they first brought her home, a frightened, shy little girl; the nights they stayed up with her during thunderstorms; the endless encouragement when she doubted herself; the sacrifices they made without ever once asking for anything in return. They had wrapped her in unconditional love, healing wounds she didn’t even know she had. Now, she owed them everything.

Filled with fresh determination, Lilia entered the college grounds. Her steps were light, her heart soaring with pride and gratitude.

The day had started beautifully, and Lilia intended to carry that energy with her. She headed straight to the college canteen, where she spotted her best friend, Judy, waving her over. The two sat together, the chatter around them fading into the background as they dove into excited conversation about Lilia’s next steps.

"I can't believe it!" Judy squealed, her eyes sparkling. "You’re officially starting your residency! And not just anywhere but at your dream hospital!"

Lilia laughed, a little embarrassed by the attention but unable to hide her own joy.

"You have to celebrate," Judy insisted, leaning closer. "You owe me a treat tonight. This is a once-in-a-lifetime thing!"

Lilia hesitated, her smile faltering slightly. She wasn’t used to parties or celebrations. Throughout her years of study, she had devoted almost all her time to books, practicals, and exams, always declining invitations to go out. Judy had tried to drag her out countless times before, but Lilia always had an excuse ready such like - an upcoming test, a clinical evaluation, a critical study session.

Tonight, however, she had no excuse. She had accomplished what she set out to do. And maybe, just maybe, she deserved a small celebration.

Seeing her reluctance, Judy grinned mischievously and bumped her shoulder.

"No backing out this time. We are going to celebrate — even if I have to drag you there myself."

Lilia laughed again, her nerves slowly melting under Judy’s infectious energy. For once, she thought, maybe it wouldn't be so bad to step outside her comfort zone. After all, life was just beginning to open up new possibilities for her.

After a long consideration, Lilia agreed to go with her.

Judy clapped her hands together as if she'd already planned everything.


 "Alright, here's the deal," she said, eyes sparkling with mischief. "We're going to Velours. It's classy, lively, and the perfect place to mark your first day as a doctor-in-training."

Lilia's eyes widened. Velours? Isn't that place... super fancy?"

"Exactly," Judy grinned. "Which means, my dear Dr. Snow, we are going full glam tonight."

Lilia chuckled nervously. "Glam? Judy, you know I live in scrubs and sneakers."

"And tonight, you will live in a little black dress and heels," Judy declared with a wink. "Leave everything to me."

Before Lilia could protest, Judy was already pulling out her phone, typing furiously.


 "I'll swing by your place after classes," Judy said, looking up. "I'll bring options for dresses, heels, accessories, everything. Makeup too. Tonight, you’re going to look like you belong on the cover of a fashion magazine."

Lilia shook her head, laughing at her friend's enthusiasm but feeling a flutter of excitement in her chest.


 "Alright," she surrendered, lifting her hands. "But I warn you, I never have worn a heels before ."

"Girl, I will carry you if I have to," Judy teased. "You’re going to be stunning. Simple glam and a fitted black dress, strappy heels, soft curls in your hair, and makeup that highlights those gorgeous eyes of yours. Trust me."

Lilia felt a warmth bloom inside her, can call a mix of nerves and excitement. Maybe it was time to step into a different side of herself even if it was just for one night.

"Okay," she said, smiling brightly. "Let’s do it."