Page 123 of My Ex's Best Friend

"This one will, trust me."

I take a shower and come out to find a simple midnight dress lying on the bed. I've never seen it before.

I smile.

I've been moaning and crying about not fitting into dresses anymore, and he's making me dinner to make me feel good about myself. That's why I love him so much.

Jake is waiting for me on the balcony when I come out. He has spruced up the place and set up a cozy corner for two. There is candlelight and everything.

"You've outdone yourself."

He kisses my cheek and helps me into the chair. "You look stunning."

"I'm fat and bloated," I reply but almost groan at the sight of the food.

Creamy ravioli and cheesecake Basque.

"Everything looks delicious," I remark, grabbing my knife.

"Dig in."

He doesn't have to tell me twice. The food is so creamy that it almost melts in my mouth.

I moan, "Oh, my God, this is so good."

"Is it?" Jake has a strange look in his eyes. He adjusts his shirt.

Wait, why is he wearing a shirt? This feels too formal.

"Yes, it's so good!" I say before pausing. "Why aren't you eating."

"I am," he insists, but no morsel has moved on his plate.

He has this funny look on his face, and there's sweat on his forehead.

"Jake?"

"Shit. You're onto me, aren't you?"

"What are you talking about?"

He starts to slowly kneel to the ground. My knife and fork clatter down on the plate.

"Kiera Elizabeth Crofton, I love you more than I could ever dream of putting into words, so I’ll keep this short and sweet. Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?"

I stare at him, blinking.

He starts to look uncomfortable. "I mean, you don't have to. It’s just tha—"

"Yes," I say as I slide down my chair. "Yes. A thousand times, yes."

He starts to cry, and so do I.

He puts his forehead against mine as he slides the ring onto my finger.

"Yes, I'll be your wife. I'll marry you."

He leans in to kiss me, and I kiss him back, pouring all my love into it.

---