Page 42 of (Not Really) Faking It With My Best Friend's Brother

"Anything for young love," she said with a wink.

I unwrapped the note as I stepped back outside, Baxter staring longingly at the ice cream. "Sorry, buddy, this one's not for you," I chuckled, patting Baxter's head. The note read: "Your next clue is where we had our first real kiss, under the willows and stars, where strawberries were eaten and our hearts were beaten."

That was an easy one. It was a memory that had etched itself into my very soul. Our first kiss. I remembered the chill of the evening air, the soft rustling willows, and the sweet taste of strawberries on Susan's lips. Goosebumps rippled across my skin at the memory.

Without wasting another moment, I guided Baxter toward the park. The evening sun cast a golden glow over the park as I walked along the familiar path, Baxter's leash held securely in my hand.

"Alright, Baxter, the clue says it's hidden beneath the bench where we had our picnic," I murmured, scanning the park for the exact spot where I had set up the surprise picnic for Susan.

Baxter wagged his tail, pulling me towards the wooden bench with an air of certainty. Kneeling down, I found a small, folded note taped underneath.

"Good boy, Baxter!" I praised him, ruffling the fur on his head before unfolding the note.

"Dear Nate," it began, "Do you remember how we couldn't stop laughing at the ridiculous jokes we told each other here? Like the one about the penguin and the suntan lotion? Moments like these have made me realize how special our connection is. Here's your next clue: Find the place where we danced under the stars without a care in the world."

I knew exactly where she was referring to. The gazebo by the community center at the edge of the park, where we had danced together at our fake engagement party. Baxter and I exchanged an excited look and hurried down the tree-lined path.

As we approached the ornate white gazebo, I spotted Susan standing there. I met her gaze, and my heart was swelling. I couldn't wait to see what this incredible woman had planned for us next.

Susan's hands trembled slightly as she reached out and took mine. Her eyes shimmered with emotion as she gazed up at me.

"Nate," she began, her voice soft but steady. "I know this whole situation between us started a bit unconventionally. But the past month and a half getting to know you, the real you, has been incredible. You've shown me time and again what a kind, dedicated, and caring man you are in ways big and small."

I squeezed her hands gently, listening intently.

"And I know neither of us expected this, but..." She took a shaky breath. "I've completely and utterly fallen in love with you."

My heart swelled with joy at her words.

"I'm so sorry I ever doubted what we could have together," she continued earnestly. "You've proven to me the depth of your integrity and compassion. You make me laugh with your terrible jokes." We both chuckled. "And you've been unwaveringly dedicated to your patients and community, even when it was difficult."

She reached up and tenderly caressed my cheek. "You are an exceptional man, Nate Reynolds. And if you'll still have me, I want nothing more than to face the future together by your side."

I pulled her into my arms, embracing her tightly.

"Nothing would make me happier," I whispered. Our lips met in a passionate, perfect kiss as we held each other close.

We sat down together on the blanket Susan had put out, the fading sun casting a warm glow over the park. Susan had prepared all my favorite snack foods: fresh berries, purple grapes, little sandwiches, crackers, cheese squares, and homemade cookies.

"Wow, you went all out with this picnic," I commented, my eyes scanning the feast before us.

"I wanted to make it special," she replied, her eyes sparkling with love. "And besides, I figured we could use a proper celebration after everything we've been through."

"Definitely!" I couldn't help but agree, my heart overflowing with gratefulness for this amazing woman who not only stole my heart but kept surprising me in ways I never thought possible.

We spent the next hour indulging in laughter and tender moments, playfully debating the merits of various cookie flavors and reminiscing about our journey together thus far. Susan would occasionally feed me a grape, her fingers brushing against my lips, sending delightful shivers down my spine. Her bright blue eyes glowed with happiness, and I couldn't help but think how absolutely lucky I was to have her in my life.

As the sun set over the park, Susan's expression turned serious. "Nate, I have one last surprise for you."

"Really?" My curiosity piqued. "What is it?"

"Close your eyes," she instructed, her voice tinged with excitement.

I did as she asked, feeling a thrill of anticipation coursing through me. I heard her rummaging through the picnic basket, and she gently placed something in my hand.

"Okay, you can open them now."

I looked down to see a small, round object nestled in my palm. It was a silver voyager compass with intricate details.

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