Chapter 12
They all finished up the year and the family was enjoying a celebration for Elliot's graduation. In June the four of them were heading to LA for a 7 night cruise through the Mexican Riviera. They planned on hitting the beaches and exploring. Carrick gave them a lecture, "No drinking! Not even you Elliot. Stay sober and protect the girls."
They sat in the hotel the night before leaving and the girls looked at all the plans for the cruise while the boys discussed Elliot's next move. His business was ready, it had been for years. When he returned he would be working on a building in the city and had a major landscaping project in the suburbs. "El, you're the boss now. I know you don't mind getting your hands dirty, but you also have to manage both projects."
Ana looked at Christian, "Ummm guys! This is a vacation." Kate smiled, "Yeah we have the beach day planned with scuba diving and dolphins. The ship has a race track." The boys stopped and looked at the girls' plans.
The cruise was amazing. On day 3 they docked and headed for the beach. After spending hours scuba diving and watching dolphins from the water, everyone relaxed on the beach. "Christian, are you happy?" Christian tilted his sunglasses down, "Yeah! Why would you ask that?" Ana smiled, "Because I am and I never thought I would be."
The next day was special, it was Christian's birthday. Ana called for room service and surprised him. "Wake up sleeping beauty. Happy birthday Christian." He blinked and Ana saw his beautiful gray eyes. "Ana, will you marry me?" Ana smiled, "We're still in school." Christian smiled and reached under his pillow. He opened the Tiffany box and flashed the Tiffany three stone engagement ring with sapphire side stones in platinum. "I can wait until we finish, but I want you to really be mine."
Ana kissed him, "I am yours, but yes Christian I will marry you." After hugs and tears, "How did you afford this and what will your parents say?" Christian smiled wide, "Everyone already knows, they helped me get the ring. Apparently they are releasing my trust fund as long as I stay in school. I'm starting my business and finishing at the same time."
That night they had a birthday dinner and cake for Christian. Ana handed him an envelope, "Happy birthday!" Christian beamed, "Flying lessons! Ana oh my gosh! This is the best gift ever." He and Elliot high-fived each other. Ana looked at Kate, "I can't believe you knew about this." Kate smiled, "Yeah, I can keep a secret. Can you keep one?" Ana looked at Kate, "Kate, are you pregnant?" Kate smirked, "No, but I can't let you beat me. Elliot and I have been together longer. Before we go home we are flying to Vegas." Ana covered her mouth and Kate held up her hand. "Oh my gosh!" The boys smiled.
At the airport Ana did something risky, but she wanted to get back at them for keeping the secret engagement. "Grace, it's Ana." Grace smiled on the other end, "Did you say yes?" Ana laughed, "Of course I did. I love him so much. I love all of you. I never thought I would have a family like this." Tears fell from Grace's eyes, "We love you too."
Ana swallowed, "I hope you love this, Elliot and Kate are eloping in Vegas. And she's not pregnant." Grace was silent and then Ana heard, "Cary!" Ana got scared until Carrick joined the conversation. "Ana, she's emotional. Tell us where and we'll make some arrangements and surprise them first." Ana gave them the details and Carrick said they needed better.
Ana came out smiling, "I'm ready guys!" They all looked at her, "Why are you so happy?" Ana shrugged, "Life is good!" Christian whispered in her ear, "You're up to something. I know you." She couldn't lie to Christian so she told him the news. He laughed, "Oh El is going to love this!"