Page 48 of Fore-Ever Yours

#BluewaterWin

#SummitPro

Chapter 18

Matthew

There’sstillonemorething I need to do. Something that’s more important than any championship win or tour card. One more piece that needs to fall into place.

I look at Beth, her eyes shining and full of hope, and I know that she is that missing piece.

I reach over to tuck a loose strand of her hair behind her ear, then lean in to whisper in her ear.

“I like the sound of that.”

This isn’t how I planned to tell her, but I can’t wait any longer. She needs to know now. I don’t want to waste another moment in this fake relationship. I want Beth to be mine.

“Come with me,” I say, holding out my hand to her. Her eyes flicker in surprise for a moment before she places her hand in mine.

“Where are we going?” she asks, looking bewildered but willing to follow me.

“You’ll see,” I answer, giving her a reassuring wink.

As we walk, my mind races through the maze of our journey. The lies that started this relationship now seem meaningless, as if they were built on a foundation meant to crumble for this truth to emerge.

We walk away from the clubhouse, away from the reporter tents, away from everyone else, toward the tree line.

“It feels like we’re on a secret mission,” she whispers with a small giggle, her grip tightening on my hand. Her laughter is contagious, and I can’t help but laugh along with her.

Reaching the trees, I guide her to a hidden spot between two oaks that offers a clear view of the sunset. It’s peaceful here, away from the crowd’s prying eyes and suffocating expectations. Just us.

Beth gasps softly at the sight of the sunset and immediately pulls out her phone to snap a picture. “It’s beautiful.” She looks up at me with sparkling eyes and smiles.

I take a deep breath, getting ready to bare my soul to this woman who has turned my world upside down in the most wonderful way possible.

I stand in front of her and grab both of her hands. “I lied to you,” I start, my gaze locked onto hers.

Her lips part slightly as confusion washes over her face.

“I signed our contract, and I haven’t kept my part of the deal.”

Her eyes widen as she processes my words. “What...what do you mean?”

“I mean, there’s something I’ve been wanting to say. Something I should’ve told you already.”

I can see her mind racing to understand.

“I’ve broken a rule,” I continue, trying to keep my voice steady. “Specifically, rule #4…I’ve fallen for you, Beth.”

Her eyes widen, and she stares at me in surprise. Then slowly, a smile starts to form on her face.

“While I noticed your outer beauty the first time I met you, I grew to know your inner beauty. You’re sweet, kindhearted, and the hardest worker I know. You tease me and make me laugh and smile more than anyone. And…” I pause, my heart trying to escape from my chest. “I want you. Not only as my brand manager. Not only as my friend. I want you to be mine, for real. No more fake dating.”

Her eyes glisten as she opens her mouth to say something, then closes it again, seemingly lost for words.

I release her hands and reach to cradle her face. “Beth,” I say softly. “I love you.”

The moment I utter those words, I feel an overwhelming sense of relief and fear at the same time. I’ve laid all my cards on the table, and now, there’s no turning back.

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