Page 57 of Captured By Fate

"I love you too, Jackson," I reply, smiling through my tears.

The cheers of the crowd are still echoing in my ears as Jackson and I hold each other tightly, the reality of his proposal and my enthusiastic "yes" settling in. The arena feels like it's pulsing with joy and energy, and I can hardly believe this is all happening. The ring on my finger feels both surreal and perfect.

As we finally break our embrace, I see Marcy pushing her way through the throng of people, her face beaming with excitement. Right behind her is Vince, Jackson's best friend and racing partner. They reach us, their smiles wide and genuine.

"Kelley! Oh my God, congratulations!" Marcy exclaims, throwing her arms around me. I hug her back just as fiercely, feeling the warmth of her happiness for us. She pulls back, tears in her eyes. "I can't believe it! This is amazing!"

Vince claps Jackson on the back, a proud grin on his face. "Man, you did it! Both the race and the proposal! I have to hand it to you, you know how to make a moment unforgettable."

Jackson laughs, his arm still firmly around my waist. "Couldn't have done it without you guys supporting us all the way."

Marcy looks at me, her eyes twinkling. "We need to celebrate. This calls for more than just a few drinks here. How about we all go out to dinner? Somewhere special."

Vince nods enthusiastically. "Absolutely. I know a great place not too far from here. It’s got a private dining area where we can really enjoy ourselves, away from all the noise."

I glance at Jackson, who’s already looking at me with that familiar twinkle in his eye.

"What do you think, Kelley? Ready to celebrate properly?"

I smile, feeling the tears of joy threatening to spill over again. "Yes, that sounds perfect. Let’s celebrate this incredible night with our closest friends."

Marcy squeals in excitement and grabs my hand, examining the ring more closely. "It’s beautiful, Kelley. I’m so happy for you two."

Vince gives Jackson another hearty slap on the back. "You’ve set the bar pretty high, my friend. This is a night none of us will forget."

We make our way out of the arena, the crowd still buzzing with the excitement of the race and the impromptu proposal. As we step into the cool night air, I take a deep breath, feeling overwhelmed with gratitude and love.

Jackson squeezes my hand, and I look up at him, our eyes meeting in a moment of pure connection.

"This is just the beginning," he says softly, and I nod, knowing he’s right.

With Marcy and Vince by our sides, we head to the restaurant, ready to celebrate not just our victory on the track, but the start of our new life together.

36

JACKSON

Kelley didn’t seem too eager to want to plan a wedding. She didn’t even want to go shopping for a dress. It was my idea to hop on a plane to Vegas. I figured we could have some fun.

When she saw the Elvis look alike marriage officiant, she looked up at me, her eyes wide and brown.

And so, here we are. Waiting to be married by Elvis. I can't help but laugh as I look around the tiny chapel, its neon lights flickering in that quintessential Vegas way.

Kelley stands beside me, her hand in mine, both of us barely able to contain our excitement. We've been through so much together, and now, here we are, about to get married by an Elvis look-alike. It's perfect in its own wild, unforgettable way.

Kelley glances at me, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of amusement and love. "Can you believe we're actually doing this?" she asks, the grin on her face infectious.

"I wouldn't have it any other way," I reply, squeezing her hand. "This is so us."

The Elvis impersonator, dressed in a white jumpsuit adorned with rhinestones, struts down the aisle, guitar in hand. He gives us a nod and a wink, and I can’t help but chuckle. This is going to be one for the books.

"All right, folks, are you ready to get hitched Vegas style?" Elvis asks, his voice a perfect imitation of the King.

Kelley and I nod eagerly, and the ceremony begins. It’s a whirlwind of laughter and joy, the surreal atmosphere amplifying the love we feel for each other.

As Elvis croons "Love Me Tender," I look into Kelley's eyes, feeling the weight of this moment. This isn't just a fun, impulsive decision; it's a commitment to the woman I love with all my heart.

When it’s time for the vows, I take a deep breath, trying to steady my voice. "Kelley, from the moment I met you, my life has been an incredible adventure. You’re my partner in crime, my best friend, and the love of my life. I promise to stand by you, to support you, and to love you for all the days of our lives."

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