Page 66 of Fake Dating the Footballer

When I stride into the living room, Wade is waiting for me, looking as handsome as ever in his dark-green suit. He holds a bouquet of lavender roses in his right hand.

“What’s this?” I ask, smelling the flowers.

“They’re the same ones I brought you on our first date.”

“I know. You also got them for me in Paris. They’re beautiful, thank you.”

Something dances behind his eyes. “Did you know that each rose’s colour has a special significance?” he asks.

“I didn’t. What does this one mean?”

“Purple means love at first sight. It also means enchantment.”

My mouth drops open. “Really?”

“I’ve only learnt that recently. But when I stopped by the florist that day, they were the first ones that caught my eye. I didn’t hesitate for one second.”

“Who knew you were such a romantic?” I tease, pulling him into a kiss. “I’m a lucky girl. Thank you.”

He kisses me back, deepening it. As I wrap my arms around his neck, I begin to think we could just stay in and order room service when he breaks us apart. “We have to go.”

“Are you planning on telling me where we’re going?” I ask, raising an eyebrow.

“Nope.” His lips curl into a grin as he takes my hand. “Now, let’s go.”

We get into a cab, and ten minutes later, the car halts in front of a tall building. As I step out of the cab, I realise it’s not just any edifice. It’s the Empire State Building.

“Another famous landmark we haven’t visited yet.” His tone is casual, but I know there’s something else happening. I can feel his excitement radiating from him.

We enter the bustling building, and a hostess guides us to the lift. I’m guessing the process doesn’t usually go this fast or include an escort. The elevator takes us all the way to the eighty-sixth floor, where a host of tourists are taking pictures and admiring the view. We hop into a second lift, which takes us to the hundred-and-second floor. The doors open to a circular room covered in glass windows that offer a breathtaking view of the city. The place is empty except for a single round table covered with a white tablecloth. It’s set elegantly, and a candle flickers at the centre.

“Wade!” I exclaim, nudging him in the stomach, though he doesn’t budge one bit.

“Candlelight dinner atop the Empire State Building, you said?”

“You’re unbelievable.” I shake my head. “You knew I was kidding when I said all those things. A simple dinner at the hotel would have been fine too.”

“Yes, but tonight is a special night.” He leads me to the table and pulls out my chair so I can sit down. “I was going to wait until after dessert,” he says, getting down on one knee and shifting the chair so I face him.

My heart thrums wildly against my ribcage. “Wade . . .”

“But I can’t wait any longer.” He reaches into his jacket and retrieves a small leather box.

Everything around us fades, my breath coming in quick gasps. Is this really happening?

“Roxy,” he begins, opening the box to reveal a sparkling diamond engagement ring. “What I truly wanted in life wasn’t riches, fame, or career success as a pro footballer, it was to have a family. I thought I could put that dream on hold, but then I met you, and my plans changed. You’re the best thing that ever happened to me, Roxy.” A wide smile stretches across his face. “I don’t want to wait to start living my dream life. I want to start now. Will you marry me and be my family, Roxanne Grant?”

“Yes! Of course I will.” I nod eagerly, hot tears skipping down my cheeks. I don’t know which of us has the biggest smile right now, but the edges of my lips feel like they’re about to break. We both spring to our feet, and he pulls me toward him.

As he laces his arms around my waist, our mouths collide in the sweetest, most romantic kiss. Pulling away, he takes the ring from the box and slides it on my finger before kissing me again.

“You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me too,” I say against his lips. “And I can’t wait to be your family.”

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