Page 102 of Doctor I Do

I am desperate to make this right. But so far, nothing is helping. No matter what I say or do, it isn’t going to get her the business she deserves, or actually…I don’t know how she’ll take it, but I have no other choice. This is the moment I ask them.

“I want to buy the business as a wedding gift.”

“You’re going through with the wedding?” her mom asks.

My head shifts to her face. This is the first time she’s spoken more than a few sentences since I entered the house.

Buying the business and marrying her is what feels right in my heart. I want to see Tahlia’s full smile at home every day as she talks about what she’s learned or implemented at work. I want her to tell me what new thing she’s organized for our wedding. I want to be with her now regardless of how we got here. I can’t apologize anymore. If Hector and Sonya don’t accept it, I guess they’ll witness it.

“Of course, and if you don’t mind, can I do this the right way? Hector and Sonya, could I please have your daughter's hand in marriage?”

Sonya gasps and covers her mouth. A sheen covers her eyes, and she looks at her husband, laying a hand on his shoulder.

Her dad wipes his forehead with his palm. The look of shock hits him at full force. “Well, Alex...this is a lot to take in.”

He looks to his wife with his brow raised, as if seeing what she thinks.

I need an answer now.

“I need your answer tonight, because she’s upset, and I want to make her happy again. She’s so beautiful when she smiles.”

Sonya dips her head, and Hector sighs before turning to face me. “Yes, you have our blessing, and you can buy the business for her.” His tone isn’t warm, but at least it isn’t as icy as before.

As I think about her and how to surprise her with this new information, a thought comes to me.

“Please don’t tell her about the business. I want to gift it to her next weekend.”

They both nod. Sonya cries as Hector speaks. “As you wish.”

Checking the time on my watch, I stand. “I must go and talk to her. Thank you for hearing me out. And I’m deeply sorry.”

“Please never lie to us again,” Hector warns.

“Never, Mr. and Mrs. Adams. Never again,” I say, walking to the door.

I kiss Sonya’s cheek and shake Hector’s hand. “Well, I’ll see you both next Saturday for the wedding.”

“You will,” Hector says.

Sonya nods.

I leave and and pull out my phone to text Maddison.

Alex: Is she at work, or at your house?

Maddison: Actually, at yours. Please sort it out. I want my space back. She’s miserable.

Alex: She won’t be back at yours, mark my words.

Maddison: I knew you two were good for each other.

Alex: Thanks. See you next Saturday.

Maddison: Really?

Alex: The wedding...

Maddison: That’s still going ahead?

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