Page 97 of Bridesmaid to Bride

“Looks like the apple didn’t fall far from the tree.” I give him a sidelong glance filled with admiration.

“I really hope not.” He grins wistfully.

The video pans to a corner of the store where there’s a makeshift counter crafted from cardboard. A handmade sign on it, the word “Choclodisiacs” scrawled in marker. Below, a selection of cartoon chocolate truffles are hand-drawn in various interesting shapes. Aphrodisiac treats? Now that’s a niche market I can sink my teeth into.

“Great idea,” I say, grinning at the boldness.

As the last frame freezes on a chocolate kiss, the lights brighten, and the video fades to black. West stands, a man on a mission, with a sparkle in his eyes that outshines the studio lights. “So, here’s the deal, Eva.”

I have no idea what’s coming, and shock numbs me. I manage a nod.

“Mom and Dad? They’re sold on your culinary magic. Those samples you brought? Couldn’t keep their hands off them.” He pulls out a crisp envelope.

I swallow hard, eying it.

“They want you, Eva. Your magic touch in their store. Choclodisiacs needs its chocolatier.”

I blink, taking in the gravity of his words. This is big—like, career-defining big. But there’s also that little voice whispering, remember what happened last time?

“Wow, West. I’m so honored.” I bite my lip, feeling the weight of the offer. It could really help ensure my business gets off on the right foot. It would be so much fun, and, as it turns out, West’s parents’ new store is right next to mine. Skye put me in the leftover space she leased for their new Atlanta shop.

West taps the envelope. “This is a contract for an exclusive partnership with Eva’s Edibles and the entire edible portion of Toys ‘n Joys.” He shrugs. “I know it’s a big decision, so take your time, think it over. No pressure.”

I don’t need time to think this over—it’s an absolutely amazing offer, and a dream come true. I’d love making Choclodisiacs and work with West’s parents!

“You know what, yes.” A huge smile spreads across my face. “Absolutely, yes!” My heart’s doing somersaults. “I can’t wait! I already have a million ideas.”

“I’m sure you do,” he says, eyes locked on mine.

“Okay, West. Give me the contract.” I snatch the envelope, feeling the edges bite into my fingers.

“There we go.” There’s more than just business in his gaze.

Then the studio goes eerily quiet. I expect Mia to move the show forward, introducing the next topic, but she doesn’t. Instead, the room balloons with unspoken anticipation.

West takes a deep breath, and his eyes take on that serious glint I’ve seen when he’s debugging code. “Eva.” His voice has tender edges and raw honesty. “I’ve got another proposition for you.” He clears his throat, and then he drops to one knee right there on the studio stage. And holy crap, this is not happening.

My heart is a jackhammer, and I can’t look away from those piercing eyes that have seen into my soul more times than I can count.

“Oh my God.”

Yes, this moment is really happening, and I’m more than ready for it. There is no doubt, no fear—only the pure bliss of shock, excitement, and love.

His face is earnest and stupidly beautiful. “I love you, Eva. Always have. You’re my best friend, my dream girl, my midnight confidant. You told me to follow my dreams. The truth is, all of them include you. So, will you marry me?”

There’s a beat of silence where the whole world stops spinning. The audience holds its collective breath, and I’m sure there’s chatter and murmuring, but all I can hear is the thudding of my heart.

“West.” I breathe, and it feels like I’m falling and flying. “Yes. A thousand percent yes!”

The room erupts in thundering applause as he slips the ring on my finger. But all I can see is him as he stands up, sweeps me into his arms, and kisses me like it’s the first and last time—and the start of something blissfully wonderful.

“Why are you so good at that?” I whisper against his lips, drunk on joy and relief and a love so fierce it could power the grid.

“Only with you.” He grins, dimples winking at me.

“Then let’s keep practicing.” I loop my arms around his neck, ready to write our own script—one filled with Star Trek reruns, sweetness, and a lifetime of shared chocolate highs.

When I finally look down at the ring, I realize it’s all-too-familiar. I bring it close to my eyes. I’d recognize that signature rose gold and princess cut diamond anywhere. It’s my mother’s, and I gasp. “Where did you get this?”

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