Page 146 of Fauxmance

"No," I said. "You just surprised me. The getting down on one knee was kind of overkill."

"Really? I thought it was a nice touch," he said.

"A little over the top."

"Well, don't worry," Hayden said, pressing his forehead to mine. "I'm not proposing—yet."

There was no way to tell if he was serious or joking. But…my heart still fluttered at the word.

"Besides, you know I'd never do it like that."

"Oh, I do?"

Hayden dropped a kiss against my lips. "Of course. When I propose for real, it will be at least a couple years down the line, after I'm a famous rockstar and you're killing the wedding planning and charity game. We'll be somewhere intimate, just the two of us, and I'll have given you the most romantic night of your life—insurance so you won't possibly say no."

My eyes widened at his detailed description.

"You've given this some thought," I said lightly.

"Hmmm, the perfect proposal takes time."

"And where will this perfect proposal be happening? Is there a set date and time you had in mind?"

"No." Hayden lifted a brow. "But it will definitely happen in an elevator. Obviously."

I stared at him a second. "You're joking. Right?"

"Am I?"

"I honestly don't know anymore," I murmured.

"Good," he said, "I like to keep you on your toes."

"My boyfriend is crazy."

"And pretty, talented, funny, the reddest of red lobsters, best fake boyfriend ever—"

"Hayden."

"Yes, Maggie?"

"I love you," I said, watching as his eyes flared. "Just wanted you to know."

"And I love you, Magnolia Wilhelmina."

As we kissed, there was only one thought running through my mind.

The truth tasted wonderful on his lips.

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