Those two have always been in cahoots, ever since we were kids, and nothing changes as they whisper together.
Ryan’s eyes light up as his gaze finds mine. “Handcuffs?” he grins. “If I knew you were into kink Brooke,” he wiggles his brows.
“This isn’t funny,” I mumble, starting to lose all humor.
“Cool it, Mickey,” Joshua chuckles. “Brooke’s definitely one of us.” He faces Brooke. “Welcome to the family.”
I look down at Brooke and feel my heartstrings tug in my chest when she meets my gaze. She’s delighted with how my family have taken to her and although I’m not impressed with what’s going to be running through Josh and Ryan’s minds, I’m so in love with Brooke I no longer give a shit.
And now is the time…
My stomach flutters with nerves and all I can think about is her answer. She could say no.
Moving out into open space between where my grandparents, parents, aunts, and uncles are sitting, and that of my cousins, I take Brooke’s hand as I go down on one knee.
Her smile slips as she realizes what I’m about to do and tears spring into her eyes.
I kiss her knuckles, before saying, “Brooke, I know this is fast, but I know I have no wish to ever be without you.” I show her the ring. “I love you, will you marry me?”
At her nod, I slip the ring onto her finger, and quickly standing, I wrap her up against me.
“Yes,” she whispers, clinging to me. “Yes, I’ll marry you and I’ll love you forever.”
I pull away and seal my lips over hers while my family cheers and whistles around us.
Epilogue
Brooke
We’ve moved inside now that the evening is cooler, and I couldn’t be happier. Michael’s family have made me feel welcome and with the teasing from Joshua and Ryan, I feel as though I truly belong as well.
Everyone has noticed that Alex was being unusually quiet and although I’ve noticed Rachel joining in on the festivities, it was clear her mind was on her cousin. I really feel for them and wish I knew of a way to help them.
However, Charlotte is another matter altogether, as I watch her sit alone on the porch swing. Her sadness is evident and I slip out of the house to talk to her.
She lifts her face before she quickly turns away when she sees me, but not fast enough for me to miss her tears.
Without asking, I join her on the swing and let the silence surround us while I wait for her to talk to me. I don’t want to intrude on her, I just couldn’t let her be alone.
“I’m happy for you and my brother,” she says. Inhaling, she adds, “I wish my own life was more straightforward.”
“What can I do to help you?”
“There’s nothing anyone can do.” She shrugs. “I asked Sirena if she knew when his wedding is. It’s in January.”
“So you have time to go and talk to him.”
She rests her elbows on her thighs and drops her face into her hands before eventually turning to face me. “I don’t want to be the cause of upset for him and the woman he’s marrying.”
“Charlotte,” I crouch in front of her, “what if he’s only going through with the wedding because it’s already set? What if he doesn’t feel for her what he should? What if he’s missing you?” I grab her hands. “You have to go and talk to him. He might not say want you want him to, but at least you’ll know.” I squeeze her hands. “I’m here for you if you need me. Anytime, Charlotte. So is Michael.”
Standing, I move away to look at the view of the mountains in the distance and feel Charlotte come to join me.
“I have some work commitments I’m not willing to pass over to the others, but I will go once those are completed, which should be in a month or so.” She exhales. “Why doesn’t this decision make me feel any better?”
I wrap an arm around her shoulders. “Because your life is still up in the air, and it will be until you’ve spoken to Tanner.” I smile. “But you’ve made the decision to go, and we’re going to make sure you do.” I grin. “Even if I have to take you there myself, you’ll be going.”
She chuckles, which I’m happy to hear. “Does my brother know you’re this bossy?”