Hey Readers, I hope you've enjoyed this story just as much as I have writing it. I'm so glad that you've all continued to read and review. Unfortunately, this is going to be the last chapter. But don't worry, I'm currently working on another story that you may enjoy as well.

I can't wait for Season 5 – Jennifer11

Disclaimer: I do NOT own Sons of Anarchy or anything that Kurt Sutter created.

ONE YEAR LATER

Kozik's POV

After waking up this morning, I looked over at Charlotte. She was beautiful and still fast asleep. I smiled as I rolled out of bed, took a quick shower, and then went into the kitchen to cook breakfast. We had been living together in a cute one-story house that Charlotte and Gemma had found and decorated. It was a little girly for my taste but whatever made Charlotte happy, made me happy.

While I was getting ready and preparing food, I got to thinking:

Charlotte and I have been dating for about a year and it has been the best year of my life. I never thought I'd find a woman that I could fall for, so quickly and so deeply. I love her and I always will. I'm going to pop the question, but how? I want it to be so special. To make it up to her, to make her forget all those horrible things that happened to her. But most importantly, to make her understand how much I love her and how much she means to me. I should ask Opie or Jax. But first, I gotta ask Piney for permission.

I was about to go wake Charlotte up when the doorbell rang. It was Happy and he was hungry. Over the year since we had met Charlotte, she and Happy had grown close. Almost like brother and sister, he was almost as protective of her as I was. Whenever she had a problem, he was there to help me take care of it. Luckily there weren't very many.

I had made an extra plate just for him, knowing he'd be over like he was quite often. I put it in front of him before going to wake up Charlotte. I walked down the hallway to the bedroom and found her laying in bed, still asleep. I almost didn't want to wake her up.

I knelt onto the bed and leaned over her, bracing myself with my hands. I pressed my lips to her forehead before whispering, "Hey babe, it's time to get up." She took a deep breath and shifted under the sheets. "C'mon baby. We gotta get to work." She frowned and turned her head away, pulling the blanket up to her head. I chuckled and pulled it down, before diving in to kiss her lips. As I pulled back, I said in a singsong tone, "I made breakfast…"

Her eyes fluttered open and she flashed a huge grin at me, "It's like you know the magic words." She reached up and wrapped her arms around my neck, pulling me back down to her. She planted her lips on mine roughly, "Come on, let's have a quickie."

Oh hell. I almost lost it. I wanted to so badly, but I knew that I needed to get going so I could track down Piney and plan the most romantic evening ever. Just for Charlotte. "Babe, I'd love to, Lord knows I want to, but Happy's here and we did it last night. Plus Clay wants us there now…" I knew I was making excuses but I had to get out of the room before I dove in and took her as mine, again and again.

She frowned, "All of those never stopped you before." She slowly took her hands off my neck and tightened her hold on the sheet. It nearly broke my heart. "Fine but you owe me one. Rain check?" She held up her pinky and was giving me the most flirtatious vibe.

I laughed and hooked my pinky with hers, "You're the most amazing woman in the world. Now get dressed and come eat."

She giggled and rolled off the bed. I took in the sight, seeing her tight lace panties, my crow, and nothing else. I almost grabbed her and jumped back in bed. It took so much restraint to watch her continue to get dressed. She pulled on dark jeans, a lace bra, and a grey tank top before putting on a pair of heels that Gemma had bought her.

She pulled her hair back and smiled at me, "What?"

"You're just so gorgeous." I pulled her into me and kissed her deeply, letting my hands drop to her ass. I easily lifted her up and held her to me as we continued to kiss.

She pulled back, "What about Happy and breakfast?"

I groaned, "Yeah, yeah." I kissed her one more time before carrying her out of the bedroom and to the kitchen.

"You gonna put me down?" She asked before kissing my neck.

I shuddered and gripped her clothes tightly before setting her down. I put a plate of food in front of her and poured her some coffee before getting my own food and mug. Happy ate and drank his coffee in silence as Charlotte talked a bit about a random dream she had.

When we were all finished, Charlotte put all of the plates and pans in the dishwasher and ran it. "I'll just go freshen up and we'll get to the garage." She kissed my cheek and patted Happy on the back as she left the room.

I poured more coffee and sat across from Happy. I thought about what to say before actually speaking, "Hey Hap, can I ask you something?" He nodded and took a sip. "I want to propose. I've already got the ring. Do you think she feels the same?"

He set the mug down and looked at me long and hard. "You're an idiot." He rolled his eyes and looked over his shoulder to make Charlotte wasn't on her way back. "Of course she does. Fucking shoulda proposed the minute you saw her."

I chuckled with him, "Yeah, guess you're right. But how should I?"

"Fucking idiot." He got up and put his mug in the sink, slapping the back of my head as he went. "Ask Gemma."

I ran my hand through my hair just as Charlotte reappeared, looking smoking hot. She didn't change much, just put on makeup, curled her hair, pulled on a tight leather jacket and grabbed her purse. She did a slow circle and flipped her long blonde hair over her shoulder.

"Ready?" She asked as she grabbed her keys and opened the front door.

Charlotte's POV

Kozik woke me up so gently and passionately, making me want him so badly. When he declined, it hurt. Why doesn't he want to make love? He normally always wants to go another round in the mornings. What is wrong with him? Or is it me? The look on his face told me he was stressed out so I just let it drop. I hope he'll make it up to me later tonight…

I got dressed and was about to leave the room when Kozik spun me into him and kissed me so intensely that I thought he'd toss me onto the bed and rip off my clothes. I regretfully pried my lips from his and got him to stop. Instead of putting me down, though, he carried me through the house. I love when he does this. It's so sexy.

After I ate, I left Happy and Kozik to get myself ready for the day. I wanted to look as stunning as I could, just to tease Kozik, so he'd see what he missed this morning. I put on tighter jeans, a low cut teal tank top, and pulled my leather jacket over it. After applying makeup and loosely curling my hair, I looked myself over in the mirror. Oh yeah, he won't be able to resist me.

I sauntered back into the kitchen and flashed a sultry smile at him. I saw his jaw drop and it was a great compliment. I subtly shook my hips as I led them out to their bikes. I got on the back of Kozik's bike; loving being wrapped around him as he carefully drove us to Teller-Morrow.

After he parked his bike next to everyone else's, he got off and held his hand out to me. He helped me off and quickly drew me into him. He lifted me up as he kissed me again.

He set me down lightly, "Have a nice day babe." He gave me a wink and went into the clubhouse.

I watched him go before going into the office to see what Gemma wanted me to do today. I got to work and quickly organized the papers before getting the guys to work on several cars waiting in line.

Kozik's POV

After getting one last kiss from Charlotte, I went into the clubhouse to meet with the club before work. It was another bullshit meeting and I couldn't focus on much of anything. For the past couple of weeks I had been wanting to pop the big question but now I knew it needed to happen soon. As soon as Clay hit the gavel on the wooden table, I followed Piney out to his bike. He was going to the cabin again and I had to catch him quick.

"Hey Piney!" I called out as he swung his leg over his bike.

He sat and waited for me to get to him, "What?"

He seemed pissed off, but then again, when wasn't he? "Uh, I just need to ask you somethin'." He gestured for me to speak. "I wanted to ask you for your permission to ask Charlotte to marry me." I looked around the lot to make sure no one was looking and pulled a small box out of my cut. "I have the ring…"

He took the box and opened it, taking a good, long look at the silver band and princess cut diamond. "Nice choice. I think she'll like it." He glared up at me, "You really love her?"

I felt the coldness of his stare as I nodded, "I love her more than air."

"Good. I swear if you ever fuck another…"

I cut him off, "Piney, have I in the past year?"

He thought hard about it and pushed the ring back into my hand, "Guess not. Just be careful." With that he drove off, leaving me to wonder if that was a yes or no. I guess that was a yes…

I turned and ran into Opie. He had obviously seen and heard the whole thing. He scowled at me for a few awkward moments before breaking out into a smile and bear hugging me tightly.

When he pulled back and slapped my back hard he spoke, "I'm so proud of you. It's about damn time! How you gonna do it?"

I shrugged, "I have no idea. I'm fucking terrified."

"Sounds about right." He chuckled. "Good luck." He left me standing there with the ring; I quickly shoved it into my cut and went into the garage to find Gemma.

Charlotte was sitting behind the desk, shuffling papers and typing into the computer. I want her so badly, all I can think about it doing her right here and now. She looked up and smiled at me, causing me to jerk out of my fantasy.

I felt my cheeks redden, "Uh, hey babe, where's Gemma?"

She got up and walked over to me, giving me a seductive smile, "Oh, just wondering where Gemma is huh? Sure you weren't thinking about somethin' else?"

I mentally kicked myself, Damn, she knows exactly what I'm thinking 24/7. I kissed her cheek softly, "Babe, I love you so much. Let's have a date night tonight."

Her face lit up, "Ok, that sounds great." She hugged me, "By the way, Gemma's in the garage talking to Clay."

I nodded and kissed her cheek, "Thanks baby, I'll be back soon." I winked at her as I went into the car bays.

I waited for her to be done talking to Clay. I tried not to eavesdrop as I shifted nervously near them. She finally looked at me, "What do you need Koz?"

"Um can I talk to you in private?"

She looked at me with a motherly concern, "Sure baby." She led me out to the play area and sat on one of the swings, "What's going on?"

I leaned against a post and quietly pulled the ring from my cut again, "I want to pop the question… But I don't know how."

She took the box and looked at the ring, "It's a pretty ring, you sure about this?" I nodded, "Ok then. This has got to be perfect. You should dress up, take her to the best restaurant in town, get flowers, and make sure you tell her exactly how you feel. She won't say no."

"Are you sure?" I was so nervous.

Gemma got up from the swing, "Hon, don't be so worried. You love her and she loves you. Do all those cheesy romantic things that guys do in the movies. Charlotte will love it."

I nodded and took mental notes, "Thanks Gem. One more thing, can you let me and Charlotte go after lunch?"

She grinned and patted my back, "Of course sweetie."

I kissed her cheek and then went back to the clubhouse to make reservations and get a prospect to get me flowers. I was feeling sick and overwhelmed by all the emotions coursing through my body.

Charlotte's POV

Kozik seems weirdly quiet and nervous all morning. What's going on? He asked for Gemma, which was making me feel insecure and worried about him. After pointing him in her direction, I had to ignore my thoughts because another customer came in.

I barely paid attention to him as he told me about his car troubles. I followed him out onto the lot to take a look under the hood. I propped up the hood before leaning over to check his fluid levels and the engine. Before I could get a good look at the tubes, I felt his hands on my hips and thighs.

"Excuse me sir, please remove your hands or I'll do it for you." I said as I looked over my shoulder at him.

I heard him laugh, which pissed me off. I shoved myself up and pushed his hands off of me. "C'mon now, sweetheart. I was just getting a feel for what I'm paying for."

"Sir, I'm not on the service menu." I turned my back to him and bent back under the hood to look at his engine block again.

I felt his hand caress the curve of my butt so I stood, spun around, and slammed my fist into his face. The guy held his cheek and took a step back while I turned to grab my clipboard. I was about to hurry to the office when he grabbed me and wrapped his arms around me tightly. I thrust my elbow into his ribs and then kicked his shin but he wouldn't let go.

I was still struggling when Tig pressed his gun into the man's back and growled, "Let her the fuck go if you want to live." He immediately released me and pushed me to the ground before Tig smashed the gun into the man's face, breaking his nose.

Happy was right next to him and looking down at me, "You ok?"

I felt shocked that this man had touched me and then shoved me. As I looked up at him and the man, I tried to brush the rocks out of my palms. Happy crouched and helped me up, leaving his arm around my shoulders as Tig kept his gun aimed at the intruder. I watched the stand off for a few moments while Happy checked me over, looking for any bruises or cuts.

Tig jabbed the gun against the chest of the guy who attacked me, "You better get in your car and get the hell out of here. We don't want your business."

He looked Tig and Happy in the eye before saying, "I'm a paying customer. Some bitch shouldn't stop me from getting help."

Happy nudged me behind him and towards Chibs, who had appeared and then firmly guided me back to the office.

Kozik's POV

I had just started talking to Juice and Phil when Half Sack shouted, "Koz! Get outside now! Your old lady just got man-handled!"

I pushed past people and got outside, not seeing Charlotte but I saw Tig and Happy trying to scare the douche bag that dared to touch my woman. I stormed over and as I got close I heard, "She's just some slut that you all bang, right?" I quickly tackled the man to the ground and started wailing on him. He tried to block my fists but I still managed to get some good shots in.

Happy pulled me off and pushed me back while Tig kept his gun trained on the man, "We got this," Tig whispered, "Go find your girl."

I nodded and went into the office. I found Chibs and Gemma sitting with Charlotte. She didn't seem hurt or terribly shaken. "Hey baby, you ok?"

She crossed her arms and legs, "No."

"What can I do…?" I asked, kneeling in front of her.

She didn't say anything for a few minutes. "I'm so pissed." Gemma and Chibs let out a small laugh. "I wanted to kick his ass."

I shook my head and smiled at her, "Babe, you're not going to be able to fight every asshole that cops a feel. That's why you have us."

She rolled her eyes, "But I've been getting so good at boxing. All those lessons have been so helpful…"

"I know, but still, you gotta let me handle some of these fuckers."

"Fine." She said before leaning forward to kiss my lips lightly.

I stood and held out my hand, "Come on, let's get some lunch."

Charlotte's POV

Chibs brought me into the office where Gemma was waiting for us. "Hey baby girl, you ok?"

I nodded, "Yeah, I'm fine."

"You don't seem fine." Chibs drawled as he double-checked that I wasn't injured. "Does anything hurt?"

I shook my head, "I'm fine. Just mad." I turned and looked out the window and saw Kozik wailing on the man that touched me. Damn it. I wanted to do that. I know that the guys are here to protect me but I want to stand on my own two feet sometimes. But it sure is sexy to watch Kozik defend me…

Kozik finally walked into the office and squatted in front of me to make sure I wasn't hurting or scared. I reassured him that I was just mad that I didn't get to use any of the fighting skills he taught me to defend myself.

After a few minutes he decided we should go eat and swiftly pulled me behind him to his motorcycle. Twenty minutes later, he drove into the Charming Cemetery. I was extremely confused when he stopped and shut off his bike.

"Koz, what are we doing here?" This is not a romantic spot for someone who claims they wanted to have a date night. I thought as I looked around and saw no one.

"You'll see." He took my hand and steered me through a few plots before stopping again.

I looked at the headstone and saw it was my mother's grave. I gasped when I noticed the differences of the site. The tombstone had been replaced with a nicer marble and new engraving. I sank to my knees and brushed a few leaves off the stone.

I looked up at Kozik, "Did you do this?"

He nodded and smiled, squatting next to me, "Charlotte, I love you. You mean so much to me and I wanted to do something for you…"

I hugged him and kissed his lips, "Thank you so much. I love you too."

He thumbed a few tears away from my cheeks, "I'm gonna give you a few minutes, I'll be right over there." He pointed over his shoulder towards a tree.

I nodded and sat back on my heels, looking over the expensive looking marble. I can't believe it's been a year since my mother passed away and Kozik has made me feel normal, at last. We've been dating continuously for the whole year, barely fighting at all. It's like we were made for each other, perfectly clicking in every way. I wish that my mom were still around to meet him. I know she'd love him and approve. She'd know that he was the one that will change my life forever.

Even though my mom and I had been through a lot, many ups and downs, tons of fights, I still wish that she could hug me and make me remember what she was like. Or at least show me what she would have been like without James. I looked up at the clear, scarcely cloudy sky and whispered, "Mom, I miss you. I wish you could meet him. He's perfect. I love him and I love you."

I took a few minutes to stop myself from crying, wiping at my eyes and taking deep breaths. I got up and turned around to see Kozik watching me with a loving look in his eye. I smiled and walked to him, he opened his arms and held me for several long moments.

Kozik's POV

I had been planning for weeks to show Charlotte her mother's grave. It had been about a year since she had been beaten to death and I wanted to show Charlotte that I cared about her and could remember important things. I paid for her mother's headstone to be replaced and the plot to be well kept. She didn't even have to thank me; the look on her face was enough. I let her have a few minutes alone to pay her respects.

I kept a careful eye on Charlotte while sending a silent prayer and thanks to the heavens: Mrs. Smith, I just want to thank you for the woman you gave birth to. She is absolutely perfect. I just wish you were here to watch her become an incredible wife. If you were still with us, I would do everything in my power to prove to you that I'm worthy of your daughter. Thank you and I promise to treat her with respect and love her every day for the rest of our lives.

Charlotte looked a little down when she stood up so I swept her up into my embrace and pressed my lips into her hair. I'm glad that I could bring her here to see her mom before I propose tonight. I already texted Gemma and they're going to do some girly things while I make sure I have all my plans laid out.

After grabbing a couple of burgers, I took Charlotte back to the lot to meet up with Gemma. I kissed her cheek and flashed a huge smiled at her before going to the clubhouse to get some help from some of the guys. Juice got us reservations in Modesto while Half Sack and the prospects cleaned my dorm room and bought flowers. I didn't want to tell the guys but they kept nagging me on why I was quiet lately and kept pestering me until I told them. It was a little surprising to find them supportive of my decision, even though it would normally seem like a bitch move. The guys all love Charlotte and want her to stick around; like they all want us to get married.

Charlotte's POV

After lunch, Gemma asked me to have some girl time. We went shopping and then to the nail salon to get a fresh mani/pedi. While at a boutique downtown, I found a smoking hot dress that I thought Kozik would love. Gemma approved and told me I should wear it tonight, since she'd heard about our date night tonight. She even bought it for me even though I tried to stop her and spend my own money.

As soon as Gemma parked her SUV in front of the salon, the ladies working there quickly filed another couple of girls out of chairs for Gemma and I. Royal Treatment. I don't think I'll ever get used to this. But somehow, Gemma acts like it's nothing, like it's normal.

"So how are things goin' with you and Koz?" Gemma asked as she picked out a red color for her nails.

I decided to get French tips before answering, "Good. I think. He's been acting a little strange this week but it could nothing."

She nodded and sat back in her chair, "You know those boys… they all get moody. But don't you worry. I know he loves you. Do you guys fight much?"

I shook my head, "It's weird, we hardly ever argue."

Gemma laughed, "It's because you're always right and he knows it. You've trained him well." She was joking but it was the truth.

Whenever I asked him to do something, he did it without asking questions. He even surprised me several times by bringing home roses or cooking dinner. He almost always tried to make an effort to be sweet to me. I know how people see him and the rest of the Sons. Kozik is much different than what people think he's like. People think he's cold, hearted and a tough, bad biker. But in reality, he's the nicest, sweetest guy I've ever met.

Once our nails were dry, Gemma paid the Asian ladies at the salon. I tried to protest again but there was no talking to her. "Don't you worry about it, baby girl."

I was admiring my nails as Gemma drove me home. After stopping at my house she stopped me from getting out, "I know you guys are having a date night tonight so make sure you look hot."

It was a little strange but I shook it off, "Ok, I will Gemma."

"Sweetheart, seriously, wear that dress and get your hair and make up perfect." She gave me this look that told me she was hiding something.

It made me feel nervous and anxious. Did Kozik say something? Does he want to break up? My emotions were getting the best of me and I knew it. I nodded and got out of the car.

I kept thinking about what Gemma meant while I showered and redid my makeup and hair. By the time I was done and ready it was about 7 pm and the sun was starting to get low in the sky. Kozik wasn't back yet so I started to get dressed, pulling on my sexiest lingerie, the tight black and red dress Gemma bought for me, and my black booties with a 3-inch heel.

I was checking myself out in the mirror and putting on the finishing touches when I hear the rumble of Kozik's motorcycle pull into the driveway. I can't believe I'm nervous. It's just Kozik and me, on a date, there shouldn't be a pit forming in my stomach. I did one last hair flip and walked out of our room to meet him.

Kozik's POV

I got the whole evening set up and bought so many flowers. I got Phil to buy rose petals and told him to sprinkle them on the bed while Charlotte and I were at dinner. After triple-checking everything, I went into my dorm room. Charlotte and I had barely slept here. The only times we did were when we were too drunk to make it to her house. I scrambled through my closet to find my nicest clothes, finally finding a black dress shirt that had been ironed years ago.

I laid out my shirt, a wife beater, a clean pair of dark jeans, clean boxers, and put my cut next to it all. I sat down in the chair and took off my boots to shine them; quickly making them look almost new. I felt so restless and like I couldn't breathe. Goddamn, I'm so fucking nervous around Charlotte. I gotta relax. There's no way she'll say no.

I closed my eyes for a couple of minutes, taking deep breaths and running my hands through my hair. I looked over at the clock and started freaking out all over again. Shit it's 6:15! I'm gonna be late!

I jumped out of the chair and raced into the bathroom. I showered and made sure I smelled fresh. Drying off, I wrapped the towel around my waist before looking myself in the mirror. Don't pussy out. Fucking do this and make her yours forever.

I put some lotion on and then got my hair gel, quickly working it into my damp hair and letting it dry into the perfect look. I flexed my arms and chest, trying to pump myself up. I know I wasn't ripped like some of the other guys but I was pretty muscular and definitely strong enough to beat some guy's ass. I can't believe Charlotte still wants to be with me. I'm such a lucky bastard.

I sprayed some cologne on before going into my room and getting dressed. After pulling on my boxers, jeans, belt, wife beater, shirt, socks, boots, and finally my cut, I walked out of my room and into the clubhouse. I was immediately hounded for dressing up and going soft to propose to my girl. My cheeks were on fire as I grabbed the roses and went out to my bike. Like I'm gonna let these pervs and douchebags stop me from putting a ring on my girl's finger.

I heard Gemma lecturing the guys about leaving Charlotte and me alone before starting up my bike and driving as fast as I could to Charlotte's house. I made sure the bunch of flowers was presentable before going into the house. She wasn't in the front room or kitchen but when I turned back around I saw her walking down the hallway.

My jaw dropped and I just stood there, staring at her, probably looking like a fool. She smiled at me and I felt myself crumble. Holy shit, she's fucking hot and beautiful. No other woman compares.

"Are you just going to stand there?" She asked me, putting her hand on her hip as she watched me.

"I uh…" Was all I managed to get out.

"Are these for me?" She took a few steps towards me and took the flowers from my hand. I nodded as I watched her take the roses into the kitchen and put them in a vase and water. She came back and kissed my lips, "Thank you, Koz. So are we going to go…?"

I almost shot forward, "Uh yeah, yeah." She started walking towards the door but I caught her arm, "Babe." I pulled her back around and into my arms, holding her tightly to my chest. "You look… amazing. Breathtaking." I whispered, barely an inch was between us.

She was blushing, "You look extremely handsome. I didn't know you could clean up this well…" She giggled before kissing me.

I winked at her, "Only for you baby, now let's get going." I led her out to the black Cadillac SRX I had helped her buy a few months ago. I wouldn't tell her where I was taking her during the thirty-minute drive to the restaurant I had made reservations at.

Charlotte's POV

The look on Kozik's face was so cute when I walked into the room. It's like every time he sees me he's surprised that I'm still there. That he's never seen me naked or anything. I almost giggled when he didn't respond; he only stared for several minutes. We finally about to leave but I was wondering how the hell I'd ride his bike in my tight dress. I guess Gemma didn't think this all the way through…

He actually guided me to my SUV and put me in the passenger seat before getting in to drive. "Where are we goin', Koz?" I asked him several times.

He just smiled and shook his head before replying, "Dinner, you'll see."

It was all a little suspicious until he pulled up in front of a very fancy Italian restaurant in Modesto called Verona's. I had heard of the place from Gemma and Tara a couple of times but had never been there. A valet opened the door for me and Kozik came around to my side, handing me a single red rose. The whole scene and mood was romantic and said a lot. Kozik was trying so hard to make this date night perfect.

We sat down and ordered a few drinks and our food. I noticed Kozik was only looking at me, never looking around him to see the other women. I felt a few eyes on me but I tried to ignore the feeling. Kozik had his cut on like normal but he had slid his hand into mine, holding it on top of the table. It was loose but firm enough to send a clear message, he wasn't afraid of PDA and wasn't going to let anyone ruin our night.

After eating and drinking for about an hour, a barbershop quartet looking group came out and started serenading the guests. They look cute but I know Kozik hates that kind of cheesy thing. He always hates when I drag him to see a romantic comedy. But isn't life supposed to be a little romantic at times? A waiter whisked away my plate just as the band got to our table; I was fascinated with the four men and how well they could perform.

I kept staring as I listened to them sing 'I Do" by Colbie Caillat. It was a little strange to listen to grown men singing this song, but the lyrics are very powerful. After two minutes of the song, I looked over to see what Kozik was thinking but he wasn't in his seat across from me. I frowned and felt panic rising in my throat so I whirled around to look for him. My eyes landed on him, kneeling next to me, with a huge smile on his face.

I gave him a confused look but saw him pulling something out of his cut, "Charlotte." He started, "When I met you a year ago, we were both at a low point, struggling and in trouble. I knew instantly we had a connection and that I wanted to you in my life. I know I'm not normal but with you, I feel at home. You brought me back from my downward spiral and I know you think you need me, but I need you more. You hold me together and turn me into the man I want to be. It would be such an honor to be your husband…" He took a deep breath, "Will you marry me?"

Kozik's POV

I'm so damn nervous. Fuck. Was all I could think about as we entered the restaurant. I slipped a wad of cash to the owner as he led us to his best table. Half Sack helped me plan everything, the restaurant, the roses, the group of singers, and even helped me figure out what to say. Charlotte and I sat; I noticed many of the patrons staring at us. I knew it was because of my cut and they were probably thinking we didn't belong here or together.

I wanted everything to go perfect for Charlotte so I held her hand from across the table, leaving our hands out for everyone to see. After ordering several beers, fruity cocktails for her, and plenty of food, I nodded to the host to send out the quartet to sing some sappy songs, one in particular that I saw Charlotte dancing to one morning with making breakfast: 'I Do' by some pop singer. After looking up the lyrics, I knew it was the song for us. I had hired these four guys and made sure they could and would sing the song at our table.

Charlotte heard and saw them, turning her attention 100% on them as they stood in front of her. I quietly slipped out of my chair during the song and got down on one knee in front of her. I pulled the box out of my cut and gave her my little speech, knowing that the whole restaurant was staring. I was almost freaking out as I watched her face and waited for her answer. I saw tears forming in her eyes, her hand covering her mouth, as she sat frozen in her seat. Oh no, she's going to say no. I thought and I bit my lip.

Finally she nodded, a single tear dropping from her eye, "Yes… Yes of course." She cried out as her hand moved and she smiled.

I let out a breath I didn't know I was holding as I slipped the ring onto her left hand. I stood up as she threw herself into my arms and we kissed, holding each other tightly. I'm so goddamn happy. Why was I so fucking nervous?

The restaurant burst into cheers and applause as I pushed more money into the owner's hand and led Charlotte out to her waiting SUV. I was so excited to share the news with the rest of our family.

Charlotte's POV

I'm a little shocked. I never thought he'd actually propose. I was speechless as he spoke and then waited for me to answer. I finally found my words and nodded before saying yes. He looked relieved as he pushed the simple, elegant ring onto my finger. The stone was large while the band was plain and simple. It was perfect. We were perfect together.

He helped me into the Cadillac before getting in to drive us to the clubhouse. I wonder what everyone will say…? I couldn't wipe the smile from my face. I turned and looked at him, he was just as happy as I was. He looked like a little kid on Christmas morning.

Once we got on CA-99 North, he held my hand, running his thumb over my knuckles and the ring. "So, fiancé… what else do you want to do tonight?"

I blushed slightly before grinning back at him, "Anything you want…"

We both shared a look before shouting together, "Party!"

Twenty minutes later, we pulled onto the Teller-Morrow lot to find the party in full swing. Kozik jumped out and was next to me in a second, "Ready to celebrate?" He whispered into my ear as he kissed my cheek and took my left hand in his.

We walked towards the crowds of people, they all looked like they had been waiting for us for a while. Kozik was beaming as he yelled for everyone's attention. "Guess who's gettin' hitched?"

We were immediately swarmed as people tried to get a good look at the rock and hear the whole story of what Kozik did. Gemma hugged me tightly, "I'm so glad you're a part of our family and that you'll be around forever."

The past year has been a blur, just like all these members and family members crowding around us. I'm so lucky, delighted, and thankful to be a part of all of this. I looked up at Kozik and saw the love in his eyes and face. This is happening and this is the best moment of my entire life. I can't wait to see what will happen in the future.