Okay, I didn't leave you guys at a cliffie. I don't know if I'm going to do anymore of those, but I might. I'll try not to, though.

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CHAPTER FIVE

Gabriella was at a loss for words. Tears of joy appeared in her eyes.

Looking up and noting the tears, Troy looked down. "I guess now wasn't the right time." He turned to walk back to his seat.

Without thinking, Gabriella grabbed Troy's arm. "Troy, I'd love to marry you!" She planted her lips on his.

The chefs, standing in the background, watched. They 'ahhed' and 'ohhed' quietly amongst themselves. Just then, the head manager of the restaurant came by and warned them to get back to their work.

Pulling back, Gabriella smiled. "Troy, you know that I'd love to marry you."

"Gabriella, I love you," Troy answered, placing a gentle kiss on her lips.

"I know you do."

"I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Every morning, every night."

"I do, too. Troy, I love you."

"And I love you."

Gabriella smiled, watching Troy slide the ring on her left finger.

"Come on, let's go," Troy said, kissing Gabriella's hand.

"Okay." Gabriella grabbed her coat and waited as Troy walked up to pay the check.

"May we now go, Mrs. Gabriella Bolton," Troy said on his return, taking Gabriella's hand.

"Yes, we may."

Giggling over their new engagement, the happy couple walked out to the car.

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The Next Morning

Gabriella woke up, turning her head. She looked at Troy, sleeping soundly beside her. He looked like an angel, just like 2 years ago on the bus to the country club.

She reached over and ran her finger along his cheek. His skin was smooth against her skin, like a soft silken towel.

Suddenly, Troy pulled her closer, bringing her face so close that their lips were almost touching.

His breath was warm against her skin. She watched as his chest rose and dropped with every breath he took. Up… Down… Up… Down….

Lost in her thoughts, Gabriella didn't notice Troy open one eye. Smiling to himself, Troy kissed her forehead. "Good morning."

"Morning honey." Gabriella answered, looking up.

Troy pulled Gabriella even closer, their bodies now pressing together. They fit together like two puzzle pieces. He tightened his grip around her waist, wanting to keep her with him all day.

Gabriella brushed back a few stray pieces of hair in Troy's face, smiling. "Troy," she whispered, "you know I love you, right?"

"Yes," he whispered back, "and you know that I love you." Theirs lips were brushing against each other as they spoke.

"Of course I know you love me." Gabriella caressed Troy's cheek, running her hand along his cheekbones.

Out of nowhere, Gabriella phone went off.

Forcing herself up, Gabriella ran over to answer it. "I thought this thing was off," she whispered to herself.

Troy lay back, grinning. "I can't believe it. We're finally going to get married. Me and Gabriella. Married." He got up and went over to Gabriella, hugging her around her waist.

"Troy," she said to him, "I need to take this call."

"Alright," he answered, stealing a quick kiss before she left the room. "We're finally going to get married. Us."

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With much love,

Kat