The world feels like it’s come to a standstill, the words echoing around us, sinking into every corner of my heart. I can feel the tears prickling at the edges of my eyes, the laughter bubbling up in my chest as I nod, reaching out to pull him up.
“Yes,” I breathe, barely able to find my voice. “Yes, of course, I’ll marry you.”
His smile breaks into a full, unguarded grin as he slips the ring onto my finger, the cool metal settling onto my skin like it’s always belonged there. I throw my arms around his neck, andhe lifts me, spinning me in a circle as I laugh, the sound echoing through the empty garage.
When he finally sets me down, he kisses me, slow and deep, and I can feel every promise, every vow, every bit of love he’s poured into that one moment. After a while, he pulls back, resting his forehead against mine, his eyes filled with a quiet, unmistakable joy. “I think it’s time we tell the others, don’t you?”
I nod, beaming as I look down at the ring on my finger, the symbol of everything we’ve built, every obstacle we’ve overcome. Together, we walk back to the elevator, hand in hand, ready to share our moment with the family and friends who have shaped this incredible, unexpected journey.
As we step back into the lively hum of the party, every familiar face turns our way, and the room goes quiet. Baden doesn’t need to say a word—the joy on my face, the ring on my hand, and the way he’s holding me close are all the announcement we need.
My dad, who had been watching us from the doorway, lets out a huff of what sounds suspiciously like reluctant approval. He steps forward, giving me a long look before pulling me into a fierce hug, his voice gruff but warm. “You make sure he treats you right, Merri. And if he doesn’t…” He shoots Baden a warning look, though I can see the humor in his eyes. Baden, to his credit, only smiles, his hand still resting protectively on my waist. “You have my word, sir.” My dad nods, giving him a long, assessing look before he finally grins, clapping Baden on the shoulder. “Then welcome to the family.”
The room erupts in cheers, and as I’m passed from friend to friend, family member to family member, I realize just how lucky I am. Here, in this crowded penthouse, surrounded by people who love us, I know that I have found something rare, something precious.
And as I glance over to Baden, my fiancé, mymate,I know that this is just the beginning of a future filled with laughter, love,and maybe a little more adventure than we bargained for. But with him by my side, I wouldn’t have it any other way.
