Page 135 of Tiers of Joy

I roll my eyes and pull out one of my presents. I open it and it’s not what I expected. It’s a baby grow that says 'mommy will you marry daddy’ on it.

I look up to see Gaige drop to one knee in front of me. He’s holding a small box in his hand with a beautiful sapphire princess cut ring.

“Oh my god.” I whisper.

“Esme, you came crashing into my life and you completely turned my world upside down. You’re the most relentless, passionate, and fucking beautiful woman I’ve ever met. I love you with all of my heart and soul. Make me happy for all eternity and marry me? What do you say, do you fancy becoming Mrs Knox?” Gaige asks, his eyes full of love and anxiety.

I look to the ring and the baby grow again with tears running down my face.

“Yes.” I whisper.

“Is that a yes?” Gaige asks.

“Yes Gaige Knox, I will marry you!” I shout.

Gaige slides the ring on my finger and takes my face in his hands and kisses me passionately.

“I love you so fucking much.” Gaige says across my lips.

“I love you Gaige. Heart and soul.” I say repeating his words back to him.

“Yes!!!!” Sally claps.

She pulls out a bottle of champagne from behind the cushion and pops the cork.

She pours us all a drink and Gaige hands me mine.

“I can’t drink.” I state.

“Oh shush, you’ve just got engaged! There’s only like two sips in there anyway.” Sally shrugs.

I shrug. She’s right. I neck the tiny bit of champagne and it tastes heavenly.

“Jesus! Wait for the toast.” Sally mocks.

“Whoops. I got a bit excited about having a proper drink.” I apologise.

“Anyway, as the best friend I feel it’s only right I should make a toast at this very special time.” Sally smiles.

“As you know, we have been friends since school. I have been with Esme every step of the way. She has been through hell and I am so happy to see her come out the other side of it. She’s happy, contented, and madly in love. So let’s raise our glasses, some with actual champagne in.” Sally pauses, giving me the eye.

“To Gaige and Esme! May you have many years of love, happiness, and hot sex! Cheers!” Sally yells and raises her glass.

I smile. I’m absolutely bursting with love and happiness.

“Umm, Esme. FYI, I am choosing my own bridesmaid dress. You ain’t putting me in no poofy pink coloured candy floss dress.” She states adamantly.

“Who says I’m having you as bridesmaid?” I throw back.

Sally raises her eyebrow, calling me out.

“Fair enough. You’re right. Of course you’ll be my bridesmaid.” I relent.

I look down at my engagement ring and sigh happily. Gaige takes my hand in his and kisses my ring.

“You’ve made me the happiest man alive today. Merry Christmas beautiful.” He whispers leaning in to kiss me.

“Merry Christmas Gaige.” I whisper back and then his lips are on mine, kissing me sweet and tenderly.

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