Page 286 of Champagne Nights

His eyes steadily narrowed at me.

“Are you sure we’re talking about my father?”

She playfully slapped my chest and let out a laugh.

“He’s a wise man.”

“If you say so.” I arched my brow at her. “Can you do me a favor?”

“Sure.” She smiled.

“Next time you feel the need to run off, can you pick somewhere a little closer? Like, maybe the Hamptons?”

“Can you buy a house there so I have a place to run to?”

“Definitely.” I grinned as I kissed her lips.

We spentthe next couple of hours in bed, having sex and talking. It felt good to be back in California since New York was getting very cold. We climbed out of bed, got dressed, made some dinner, and then headed down to the beach to take a walk as the sun was getting ready to set. While we were walking hand in hand, I stopped, pulled the engagement ring I’d bought her from my pocket, and got down on one knee. She placed her hands over her mouth the moment she saw the ring. I had been waiting for the perfect time to ask her, and I’d felt this was it.

“This ring is a symbol of my eternal love and commitment. I love you so much, and I can’t imagine my life without you in it. Will you marry me, Ellie,” I signed.

“Yes, Henry! I’ll marry you!” She beamed with excitement as she held out her left hand, and I slipped the three-carat diamond on her finger.

Standing up, I swooped her in my arms and spun her around as our lips locked in a passionate kiss.

We spenta few days in California before we headed back to New York. As much as we wanted to tell our family and friends about our engagement, we both agreed we wanted to do it in person, so we hosted a dinner at the penthouse for our family and friends. Since mid-terms were over, Addison was able to come home, which made me happy.

After changing my clothes, I went into the kitchen and found Ellie rushing around.

“What is she doing?” I asked Delilah.

“She’s making sure everything is perfect.” She sighed.

“You’re making me nervous,” I signed. “Let’s go into the living room and let Delilah work her magic.”

“Okay. Sorry, Delilah.” She glanced at her.

“It’s okay, Ellie. It will be a wonderful night. Don’t worry.”

Ellie retrieved her ring after sharing a wonderful meal with our family and friends.

“Can everyone gather around,” I said. “There’s something we need to tell you,” I spoke. “Ellie.”

“We’re getting married!” she shouted as she held out her hand.

Everyone was shocked as they congratulated us with hugs and kisses.

“Now, I agree with this one,” Frankie said as he patted my back.

“Congrats, bro.” Ben smiled as he shook my hand. “You two are a beautiful couple.”

“Thanks, man.” I hugged him.

I glanced over at Ellie who was in the grips of my mother. Only this time, she had a bright smile on her face.

“Congratulations, son,” my dad said as he gave me a hug.

“Thanks, Dad.”

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