Page 44 of Courageous Yearnings

THIS IS NOT FUNNY, GUYS – help me?!

If you back out after your girl thinks you proposed, you are never going to get a second chance to win her over. You need to think long and hard about what you do next.

Chad, I’m stuck.

You aren’t STUCK. You have hit a crossroads and need to decide what you want to do. Are you going to marry her and try to make it work – or are you going to break her heart and never see her again?

Isn’t there a third option?

I don’t think so…

Justin? You are awfully quiet. No words of wisdom?

Mrs. Cortes, huh…? Nice.

That’s not funny, Justin.

Who’s joking?

I really like her – a lot – but I’m trying not to have a panic attack. I mean, I’d rather face a room full of hungry mice with fangs than to make Blythe upset or cry… but marriage?

Marrying Maya was the best thing I ever did – relax.

Okay – anyone but Chad can respond. I’m open to any ideas.

Anything?

Hello? Guys?

You need to relax. Marriage to someone who loves you is amazing – and you are one lucky guy to have found her. Don’t ruin this with a gut reaction. Sleep on it.

I second, Chad. Don’t do anything and sleep on it.

Agreed.

I vote for engagement and shutting your yap.

Don’t blow this, dork!

WWDGD, right?

I need to think.

Huh?

It’s code - ‘What would Dave Grohl do?’ Sheesh! Don’t you ever listen to us talk to you on calls?

You and that stupid fanboy love affair – I’m sick of listening to it at the station. Can you find another singer?

Lance put the phone face down and shoved it under his pillow the second that the bedroom door opened slowly. He saw her hopeful, happy, and caring expression as she peered inside.

“How’s your tummy?”

“Fine, I guess.”

“Oh good,” she smiled, sitting on the edge of the bed. “I’m not exactly the best nurse, but I remember having hot tea like this whenever I felt slightly ‘off’. I hope this helps.”

Lance sat up gingerly, accepting the cup of tea, taking a sip obediently and wincing. It was bitter, just like the bile in his stomach. Yeah, there was such happiness in her eyes, such hope and excitement. He knew at that moment that his friends were right.

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