I’ve been calm all week, knowing today’s the day that I ask the love of my life to marry me. I thought maybe once the day arrived, I’d be nervous, but still nothing. I made love to Ramsey this morning, and all I could think about was that the next time, she’s going to be my fiancée.
I’m not worried that she’s not going to say yes. We’re solid, and we’re forever. I am, however, excited. I can’t wait to marry her and change her last name. I want her stripped of that name and the family it represents. She’s more of a Kincaid than a Smithfield, and soon she’s going to be a Setty.
I can’t fucking wait.
Everyone knows what’s going to happen today. Her family, my family, even my sister who just stole her away from me. Everyone is in on it, except for her. It’s time to change that. Tossing my empty water bottle in the trash, I catch my best friend’s eye and nod. He grins and starts letting everyone know it’s time.
Making my way to their booth, I can feel all four of them staring at me, especially my sisters, but I only have eyes for Ramsey. “Can I have my girl back now?” I ask, still keeping my eyes locked on the love of my life.
“Brother, why must you always steal my bestie?” Palmer asks. She’s not letting even a hint of what’s about to happen show in her actions or her words.
“Because I love her. Because it’s easier to breathe when she’s next to me. Because she’s my best friend. Need me to keep going?” I ask.
“Uh, no. No, that’ll do.” Palmer moves to stand and motions for Ramsey to do the same. “Sorry, bestie, he wins. That was some deep shit.”
Ramsey grins, slides out of the booth, and takes my hand. Without a word, I lead her to the stage, and I don’t have to worry about all eyes being on us. I know that Orrin spread the word that the main event is starting.
With both of her hands in mine, I stare into her deep blue eyes. “I wish there was a way for you to see inside my heart. If you could, you’d see that your name is written all over it. You would be able to see that it beats for you.”
“Deacon.” Her eyes shimmer with tears.
This is it. It’s time.
I drop to one knee and watch as her mouth falls open. “If you could see into my heart, you would know that there will never be anyone for me but you. You would see that my love for you runs deep in my veins. Ramsey, baby, will you do me the incredible honor of spending the rest of your life with me? Will you marry me?”
“Yes.” Tears slide over her cheeks and her hand trembles as I slide the one carat princess-cut diamond onto her finger. I stand and pull her into my arms, kissing the hell out of her.
Our friends and family cheer all around us, but I block it all out. All I see is the woman in my arms. Breaking the kiss, I rest my forehead against hers.
“I told you I was going to marry you someday,” she teases.
“That you did.” I chuckle.
“Were you nervous?” she asks.
“Nah, I know we’re forever. What about you?”
“Nah, I know I never have to be nervous with you.”
“Never with me, baby.”