55
As my plans come to fruition, I make sure you're oblivious.
You don't think twice when Kate invites you out for a day of pampering. Manicures, for obvious reasons, pedicures just because, and a facial because I hired a professional photographer.
You're excited when I plan a day at the beach, just the two of us. You're wearing my favorite bikini and cover up. I choose a matching pair of board shorts, and you joke that we've become that couple.
But I have my reasons.
The ring has been burning a hole in my pocket since Jane called to tell me it was ready, and I picked it up. I've fought the urge to ask you because you deserve the perfect proposal.
"Should I pack drinks and snacks?" you ask while we're getting ready.
"No. I placed an order with Mallory's. They do picnic baskets, and I've already grabbed our favorite wines."
"Oh. okay." You shrug.
We pick up our basket and head toward the coast. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't nervous. As we make our way to Vilano Beach, I start second guessing myself.
Is it too early? Are we ready for something like this? What if you say no?
"You okay, babe?" you ask and squeeze my hand. "You're being quiet."
"I'm fine," I assure you. "Just excited for our day."
"Me too." You smile.
We park on the sand and unload the car with beach chairs and our basket. Finding the perfect spot on the crowded beach is the hard part.
As we set our stuff up, the photographer I hired and her assistant approach and make it look like they're just here to enjoy the good weather. You don't pay them any mind and spread out a blanket.
"So, what kind of food did you order?" you ask after we've applied plenty of sunscreen.
I open the picnic basket and pull out containers. "The charcuterie package. Cheese, meats, and crackers. Olives and different nuts. I made sure they included pistachios because I know they're your favorite."
"You're so sweet." You reward me with a kiss.
"I also got chocolate-covered strawberries."
"Ooh."
We munch and make small talk, and out of the corner of my eye, I notice Victoria is pulling out her equipment.
It's now or never.
You ask me if I want to take a walk to look for shark's teeth while our food digests before we swim.
I nod and check my pocket.
We hold hands as we make our way down the beach. I'm not sure if you can feel my trembling.
"God, it's so beautiful today." You breathe.
"You're beautiful."
I check to make sure Victoria is close and get down on one shaky knee.
"Bella Swan, I love you more than anything. You came into my life and changed it for the better."
Realization hits you, and you gasp when I grab your left hand.
"You've taught me so much, and I strive to make you the happiest girl in the world." I flip open the ring box. "Will you do me the extraordinary honor and marry me?"
Tears pour down your cheeks, and you nod, but that's not good enough for me.
"I'm going to need to hear it, baby. Say it ... out loud."
"Yes! Yes, I'll marry you." You sob.