Page 38 of Submit

ChapterNineteen

ASTERA

After another sex session with Griffin, and washing each other’s bodies, we are getting dressed in his room.

Pulling some clothes on, I watch as Griffin ruffles through his bedside drawer and holds a small box, then makes his way to me.

“I said I am in this for keeps, so I wanted to know…” he gets down on his knee.“Will you marry me?”

I’m speechless as hot tears spill down my cheeks.Finally, I manage to nod.“Yes.I will.”

He stands and takes my hand to put the ring on my finger.“It was my mother’s.I know she would want you to wear it.”

“Oh my god, Griffin.”More tears spill out.“I can’t believe this.”

He smiles.“Believe it, baby.”He kisses my cheek.“I fucking love you and cannot picture my life without you in it.You are my forever.”

“I’m…just speechless.”Holding out my hand, I look at the ring.A dark emerald stone is centered on a gold band and surrounded by tiny diamonds.“This is stunning.Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

“Can we have at least a three-to-six-month engagement before getting married?”

“Of course, I k now you will want Claire by your side.”

“I do.I couldn’t dream of getting married while she is going through this ordeal.

“Want to go announce it to everyone?”he asks.

“Yes.”

Taking my hand, we make our way to the common area.

“Everybody,” Griffin calls over the music.

Everyone turns to us.“I’m gonna make an honest woman out of her.”All the guys hoot and holler, and the ladies immediately come over to swoon over my ring, oohing and ahhing at it.The guys are shaking Griffin’s hand, congratulating him.My heart feels like it might burst with joy.

Griffin makes his way back over and slides his arm across my shoulder.Foster passes beers around to everyone, and he holds his in the air.“I want to congratulate Astera and Griffin.Finally, someone that can put up with her ass.”

The crowd laughs.

“Hey!”

“I’m kidding.A little.”

I make a face at him.

“Alright.Alright.You are like a little sister to most of us.I’m happy that through all the darkness we have had recently, this is a happy moment to celebrate.Cheers.”

It takes everything in me not to cry.“Cheers,” we all say in unison.

“Why don’t you move in with me,” I suggest.

“Babe.Are you sure you are ready for that step?”

“You said this was for keeps, so yes.Why not?”

His smile is contagious, and I smile back.“Yes.I would like that.”

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