Page 137 of For the Love of Art

Perfect.

“I’m sorry everyone, but I’m going to have to cut this short. Something at the gallery needs my attention.” I looked at Isla. “You better come with me.”

Isla’s brows shot up. “Oh, okay.”

We all filed out of the apartment leaving the cake and dirty plates on the table. I would deal with them later. I had one thing on my mind.

The town car I ordered was waiting outside the apartment. I opened the door allowing her to slip in. We drove along Park Avenue and I smiled out the window thinking about what was to come. Everyone walking along the streets seemed as happy as I felt.

“I thought we were going to the gallery?” Isla looked at me confused.

I smiled. “I might have lied so I could get everyone to leave.”

Her eyes widened. “Nathan!”

The car pulled up just outside of Central Park. I saw an empty horse and carriage.

Perfect.

“Come on.”

I led Isla out of the car to the horse.

“Nathan.” I looked over at him, “What is this?”

“This is what I want to do on my birthday,” I answered.

Isla’s face softened, clearly wanting to keep me happy on what society deemed as my day. I led her to the carriage and could see her cheeks turning pink.

“This is a little cheesy,” she commented.

“It’ll be worth it.” I winked at her. “Trust me.”

We stepped in and I whispered to the driver where to take us. He nodded and I sat next to Isla, pulling her closer to my side. She rested her head on my shoulder as we moved deeper into the park. I loved the feeling of her pressed against me.

When the carriage stopped, my stomach leaped. This was it. This was the spot.

“You up for a little walk?” I asked.

She looked down at her heeled boots.“I guess if it’s a short one.” She shrugged. “You might need to keep me upright.”

I tucked her arm into mine. “Gladly.”

We walked down the brick laden path. It was a beautiful New York winter day. A fresh bit of snow had fallen, and I enjoyed the sound of it crunching beneath out feet. A slight breeze blew, but I didn’t feel cold. I felt warm– excited.

“Bow bridge.” Isla said with awe next to me.

I squeezed her arm tighter as we walked onto the bridge. We leaned over the side and at the water that wasn’t completely frozen yet.

“This is beautiful,” she commented as I picked up a rock and dropped it over the edge.

“And less sad than your painting,” I teased.

Isla pushed me playfully.

“It’s been an amazing few months,” I said as I watched her look out at the scenery.

She hummed in agreement.