Page 75 of All of Me

AT LAST - ETTA JAMES

CALLIE - APRIL 19, 2014

Iwake up the next morning with a weightless feeling in my chest, like I’ve spent the whole night floating on clouds. The soft light of dawn filters through the curtains, painting the room in shades of gold and pink. Ruby’s soft coos come from the bassinet near the bed, and I glance over to see her stretching, her tiny fists punching the air.

Then it hits me all over again.

I’m engaged.

I lift my hand, staring at the black diamond that now graces my finger, the tiny white diamonds around it catching the morning light and scattering it like little stars. It’s perfect, more perfect than I could have imagined. Bold and unique, just like I always hoped it would be.

Beside me, Owen stirs, his arm draped over my waist tightening slightly as he pulls me closer. His breathing is still slow and steady, his face relaxed in sleep, and I take a moment to just watch him. The man who’s changed my life. The man I’m going to marry.

My heart swells so much it feels like it might burst, and before I can stop myself, I grab my phone from the nightstand. There’s no way I can keep this to myself any longer.

The first person I text is Taylor.

Me:

You awake?

Taylor:

It’s six a.m. on a Saturday. Why would I be?

I type back three words I never thought I would say again.

Me:

I’m getting married.

Taylor:

WHAT?! WHAT?! CALL ME RIGHT NOW!

I smother a laugh, glancing over at Owen to make sure I didn’t wake him. He doesn’t stir, so I type back quickly.

Me:

I can’t talk yet. Everyone’s still asleep. Just wanted to tell you.

Taylor:

I need every detail. Also, AHHHHHHHH!

Next, I send a message to Brooke.

Me:

Hey, I thought you should know… Owen proposed last night.

Brooke:

SHUT UP! Are you serious?! OMG, Callie, I’m so happy for you!!! Tell me everything!

Before I can respond to Brooke, my phone buzzes again with Taylor’s messages.

Taylor:

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