Page 205 of Glass Jawed

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“I will,” I promise.

We say our goodbyes.

Today’s the day.

And yeah, I’m nervous. Even though I know—know—she’ll say yes.

Just two months ago, I wasn’t sure I’d even be here. Wasn’t sure I deserved to be. Now? I’ve got the ring. The woman. And I’m about to ask her a question I’ve waited my whole life to ask.

It’s a quiet, breezy Saturday evening. She and Kash went out for a beach day, and now that the sun’s dipping low, she should be home any minute. Her apartment is exactly how I planned it.

I just hope Kash isn’t with her—I gave her the heads-up already, and I’m counting on her to come up with an excuse.

I quickly prop my phone on the kitchen counter, angle it just right.

The door clicks.

Shit. She’s here.

I rush to the table, positioning myself just in time.

The door swings open.

And there she is.

Wearing a short beach wrap dress, tote slung over one shoulder, skin golden from the sun, glowing like some kind of celestial punishment.

Then her eyes land on me.

On what I’m wearing.

She takes it all in—the white tablecloth, the non-alcoholic wine, the single red rose in a vase.

I recreated everything.

Everything fromthatnight a month ago.

Except this time... no half-open robe.

Just black pants, a crisp white shirt, two top buttons undone.

I know she likes it when I do that. I’m shameless enough to use it.

Her breath hitches. Her eyes trace every detail.

Then recognition sets in.

This isn’t just a date night.

It’s a memory brought to life.

The night she gave me her trust. Her body.

The night I gave herthewarning.

She’s completely frozen in the doorway.

And then... her eyes start to water.

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