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“Brilliant idea, Eloise!” James agreed, his face lighting up at the suggestion. The thoughtful gesture would not only demonstrate his affection for Amanda, but also serve as a constant reminder of their shared love for literature.
“All right then,” Theodore said, rubbing his hands together. “Now that we have the basic plan in place, it’s time to work on your proposal speech. You need to come across as confident and sincere, so let’s practice, shall we?” He stood up and gestured for James to join him in the center of the library.
“Are you sure?” James hesitated, glancing between his siblings with uncertainty. “I mean, I appreciate your help, but...role-playing?” He couldn’t help but think it was his siblings’ way of making fun of him.
“Absolutely!” Eloise chimed in, grinning mischievously. “Theodore will pretend to be Amanda, and I’ll provide feedback on your performance. Trust me, by the time we’re done, you’ll be the picture of confidence and sincerity.”
“Very well,” James relented, taking a deep breath to steady himself. With a nod of encouragement from Theodore, he began to recite the words that had been forming in his mind since the moment he realized his love for Amanda.
“Amanda,” he started, his voice wavering slightly. “From the moment I first laid eyes on you...”
“Wait,” Theodore interrupted, raising a hand with a playful smile. “Allow me to get into character.” He cleared his throat dramatically and assumed a demure expression, batting his eyes exaggeratedly at James.
“Really, Theodore?” Eloise laughed, trying to stifle her giggles with her hand. “You’re taking the role a bit too far, don’t you think?”
“All right, all right,” Theodore conceded, his laughter joining Eloise’s. “Now, James, continue.”
“Amanda,” James began again, his voice steadier this time. “From the moment I first laid eyes on you, I have been captivated by your intelligence, your kindness, and your unwavering passion for the things you love...”
As he continued to speak, James felt his confidence growing.
“Very good,” Theodore said, nodding approvingly. “Just remember to maintain eye contact and speak clearly. You want Amanda to believe every word you say.”
“Right,” James murmured, taking in Theodore’s advice. “Eye contact, clarity, sincerity.”
“Exactly!” Eloise agreed, her eyes shining with excitement. “Now, let’s practice a few more times, just to ensure everything is perfect. After all, practice makes perfect!”
“All right! But I draw the line at kissing Theo!”
Eloise giggled. “I can get my camera if you guys want to try it!”
IN THE DAYS THAT FOLLOWED, James dedicated himself to perfecting every aspect of his grand gesture.
“Amanda,” he said for what felt like the hundredth time, “I stand before you a man changed by your presence in my life...”
Finally, the day of the proposal arrived, bringing with it a flurry of nervous excitement that buzzed through James like electricity. Theodore and Eloise were at his side, ready with words of encouragement and reminders to breathe.
“Remember,” Theodore said as he clapped James on the shoulder, “be yourself.”
“Exactly!” Eloise chimed in, her enthusiasm infectious. “Amanda will appreciate every ounce of effort you’ve put into this, James. I just know it.”
“Thank you,” he told his siblings, the corners of his mouth lifting in a small, determined smile. “I won’t let either of you down. Or Amanda, for that matter.”
“Of course you won’t,” Eloise replied, her eyes twinkling with pride. “Now go out there and win her heart!”
And with that final push of encouragement, James strode from the room, his pulse racing and his resolve unwavering. He was ready to face Amanda and offer her the love she truly deserved.
James surveyed the library, his heart pounding in anticipation. The flickering candlelight cast a warm glow over the rows of books. Each title had been handpicked to represent Amanda’s diverse literary interests, from classic novels to modern poetry.
In the center of the room, James had set a small table adorned with a bouquet of roses and Amanda’s favorite chocolates. Atop the table lay a rare first edition of her most cherished book, wrapped delicately in silk. He hoped the gift would serve as a symbol of his commitment to nurturing their shared passion for literature.
“All right, James,” he muttered to himself, “you can do this. Just be genuine and sincere.”
“Talking to yourself now, are we?” teased Theodore, appearing at James’s side with a knowing grin. “You’ve got this, brother. Just remember: deep breaths, steady voice, and speak from the heart.”
“Exactly,” Eloise chimed in, joining them. “Amanda will see how much thought you’ve put into this evening, and she’ll appreciate your sincerity.”
“Thank you,” James said, his voice wavering slightly. “I just... I want everything to be perfect, you know?”
