Page 97 of Shattered

“You checked my pockets?”

“Multiple times. You’re very sneaky.”

“I’m appropriately romantic.”

“You proposed in my mom’s garden at seven in the morning while we’re both in pajamas.”

“Exactly. Romantic.”

She laughed through her tears. Looked at the ring. Looked at me. And at the garden around us.

“I love you so much, Axel Irving. So, so much.”

She leaned to kiss me again. Softer this time, her lips moving against mine with passion and certainty.

We sat on the bench. Engaged and certain. The morning sun warming our faces. Birds singing Elena’s favorite songs.

My phone buzzed. Daniel.

Daniel

Did you ask her yet?

I showed Delia the text.

“How does he know?” she asked.

“I told him I was planning to propose. I asked his permission first.”

“You asked my brother’s permission?”

“Seemed appropriate.”

“You’re such a nerd.”

“You’re marrying this nerd.”

“I know. It’s tragic.”

I texted Daniel back.

Axel

She said yes.

His response was immediate.

Daniel

Finally. Bringing champagne. Be there in 20.

Twenty minutes later, Daniel arrived with champagne. Sarah appeared five minutes after that—apparently Delia had texted her too.

“Let me see the ring,” Sarah demanded, grabbing Delia’s hand. “Oh, that’s beautiful. He has good taste.”

“I helped him pick it,” Daniel admitted.

“You helped?” Delia looked between us.