Page 196 of Take My Hand

Maya shifted around and putting a wet palm against my cheek, smiled softly. “Baby, you don’t have to buy a house to show how much you love and support them. And what you have done for that sweet girl all her life is incredible. You’ve been her mother and her father, and she has the confidence to move on to the next chapter because of you. Because of every single time you told her she was strong, she was brave, and she was beautiful.”

A lump formed in my throat as I thought about the years when it had just been me and my Mads. At times it had been hard, but in the most she’d made it easy for me. She’d been a great kid to bring up. My little teammate and now she was leaving me.

“Shit, if I feel like this now, how will I cope the day she leaves?”

Maya kissed me gently. “I’ll hold your hand, don’t worry. Always.”

Now was the time to let Maddy go and start a new team. I reached down the side of the bath underneath the towel I’dplaced there and pulled out the small black velvet box. As Maya washed her arms, I flipped open the box, and cleared my throat of the nerves, and moved my shaking hand in front of her.

She didn’t notice immediately, but when I kissed the back of her neck she looked up and instantly squealed.

“Oh my God, Will.”

Turning around to face me, water sloshed over the sides of the bath onto the tiled floor as a small tidal wave formed around us.

“You mean it?” she asked, her palms flat against her cheeks. “Really?”

“Yes, gorgeous,” I whispered. “I mean it. I love you and I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you. I can’t imaginenotspending it with you.” Mesmerised by her beauty, I drew in a breath, unsure how I’d been so lucky. “Love wasn’t something I was looking for. I didn’t think I wanted it, but you, shit, Maya, you changed all of that. I love everything about you, your heart, your laugh, your jokes, your body, your lips, everything, but most of all I love how you love my daughter. So,” I said, blowing out a breath, “will you marry me?”

“Yes,” she screamed. “Yes, of course I will. Please put that beautiful ring on my finger.”

As soon as it was on, she threw her arms around my neck and kissed me like she needed it to survive. More water splashed over the sides and when Maya straddled me, we were left with only a small amount left in the bottom of the bath.

“I love you,” I told her. “So, fucking much.”

Maya’s bottom lip trembled as she traced my eyebrow with her finger, her gaze fixed on me. “I love you, too and I can’t wait to be your wife.”

Then, in a few inches of water, I made love to my fiancée and made her scream my name as the diamond on her finger twinkled just like her eyes.

Maya’s Diary Entry

I can’t believe it, I’m engaged! Will proposed and it was perfect. The ring is beautiful and he’s incredible and I am the luckiest person in the world. My mum and dad went crazy on the phone. As for Morgan and Loretta they’re already talking about what colour bridesmaid’s dresses they want. Maddy was so happy for us, but she already knew because she went with Will to choose the ring. Well, she’s got good taste.

I didn’t think I could ever be this happy. Well, there is something else, but I don’t know for certain which is why I haven’t told Will, but I think I’m pregnant. It had to be when I was on my pain meds, I think I might have missed a pill. I probably should have got a test today while he was out with Maddy, but I can go tomorrow. And flash my engagement ring at the pharmacist lol!

I’m so unbelievably lucky and happy and it’s all down to him. Will. The love of my life.

Zak’s WhatsApp Messages

ZAK

Hey Oz, you okay mate? Just wondering if you fancy coming up for mine and Mad’s leaving party. Maddy’s dad is putting it on in his bar for us. It’s all on him, beer and everything. Mention it to everyone, except Connie of course. It’s on the 19th of next month. You can all stay at ours, sleeping bags and stuff in our basement – don’t worry it’s nice down there!

Oscar

Sounds great mate and you don’t even need to mention her. No one is talking to her after that stunt she pulled. Even Dan dumped her, and he’s desperate to work for her dad.

ZAK

She’s a piece of work and Maddy is worth a thousand of her.

OSCAR

Pretty serious between you and Maddy then seeing as you’re going to uni together!!!

ZAK

I guess so. We’re going to be living together but I’ve seen my schedule and it’s fucking crazy. We’ve agreed to still enjoy the uni life and go out with friends, plus we’re studying in different places, but I’d hate it if she wasn’t there… so yeah, pretty serious (Smiley face emoji). IYKYK

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