Page 42 of Claiming What Is Mine

“You keep telling me you don’t have a sweet tooth, but…well…I mean, I saw the damage you did to that pecan pie the first time you stayed over.”

My cheeks burn with embarrassment at the thought of him knowing what a glutton I had been. “But…you never said anything. Not one word.”

“Ha. Why would I? You left me a piece.” Gabe snickers. “A small one, but still. Anyway, I thought, since we both like it so well, it would be fitting for tonight.”

“Okay?” I look him up and down with a suspicious eye. “Am I missing some vital piece of information which would help all of this make sense?”

“Alright, I was going to wait until after, but…” Gabe shifts, turning his body from me while he digs at the front pocket of his slacks. When he turns back, he pulls one leg up and places his foot in front of him, leaving him on one knee. “Meredith.” Gabe pauses, as he carefully chooses his next words. “I love you. I want to share every moment of my life with you.” He extends his closed hand, still concealing what’s inside.

Oh my God. Oh my God. Oh my God.

“I promise to devote each day to making you happy if you would do me the honor of becoming my wife. Will you marry me?” Gabe opens his hand and reveals a breathtaking blue sapphire solitaire.

“Oh my God. Oh my God. Oh. My. God.”

Gabe looks at me with a vulnerability I haven’t seen in him before. “Is that a yes?” he asks, nervously fidgeting on the blanket.

“Yes!” I scream as I thrust out my left hand and wiggle my ring finger. “Put it on, put it on, put it on.”

Gabe slides the thin white band over my knuckle and tears burst free, streaming down my face. I am shocked, excited, and consumed with love for this man. All at the same time. Gabe laughs as he wipes a tear from his cheek. “My plan was to place it in the top of your pie. But it looks like it worked out fine, all the same.”

“I’m sorry I punched you for bringing me here. I’m sorry I didn’t trust your plan. I’m sorry for ever doubting you. I…I don’t know what else to say.” I throw my arms around his neck and pull him in to me. “I love you, Gabriel Wilde.”

Gabe pulls his head back and looks deep into my eyes. “I love you too, Meredith Still. I always have, and I promise you, Doll—I always will. You are the one for me and I want the world to know it, now and forever.”

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