Page 146 of Cole

As they made their way toward the exit, Dawn and Andrew maintaining a discreet distance, Annie leaned into him. “I’m proud of you,” she whispered.

“For what?” he asked, glancing down at her.

“For listening to God nudging your heart. For being willing to make a public declaration in front of everyone.”

Cole smiled, warmth spreading through his chest. “It felt right. Like something I should have done a long time ago.”

Outside in the church parking lot, Benji caught up with them, Amelia at his side. The young girl’s cheeks were flushed pink, either from the cool air or from Benji’s presence—possibly both.

“Can we get lunch together?” Benji asked hopefully. “Amelia’s parents said it would be okay if we had dinner together as long as you two were with us.”

Cole looked at Annie, who nodded with a smile. “Sounds perfect. How about The Steakhouse at the resort? I hear it’s great. I would have suggested Zane’s restaurant, but I think they don’t open until later in the day.”

“We’ll just run and let Amelia’s mom and dad know where we’re going,” Benji said. “Then we’ll meet you at the car.”

As they walked to the SUV, Cole noticed Dawn conferring with Andrew, likely discussing security arrangements for theirlunch plans. Annie had mentioned how she’d gradually grown accustomed to having security personnel nearby, but Cole was still adjusting to it.

“What are you thinking about?” Annie asked as they reached the vehicle.

Cole opened her door before answering. “Just processing everything from the service. And thinking about us.”

Once they were both seated inside, he turned to her before starting the engine. “Annie, I want you to know that what happened in there wasn’t just a momentary emotion. I’ve been feeling this pull for a while now—to do more with what I’ve been given.”

She rested her hand on his. “I believe you. And I want to support you however I can.”

“That means everything to me.” He hesitated, then added, “I’ve been thinking about my contract that is ending after this season. About what comes next.”

“And what are you thinking?” she asked, her eyes searching his.

“I’m thinking that whatever I do, I want you with me. Whether that means continuing to play or moving into something else entirely.” Cole’s voice softened as he looked into her eyes. “I want to build a life with you, Annie.”

Annie’s breath caught. “Cole…”

He leaned forward to kiss her gently, then pulled back when he saw Benji and Amelia approaching the car.

Benji yanked open the back door, Amelia sliding in beside him. “We’re all set!” he announced, oblivious to the moment he’d interrupted.

Cole gave Annie’s hand a gentle squeeze before starting the engine. The conversation wasn’t over—just paused.

The drive to the resort was filled with animated conversation. Benji regaled them with stories about his school’s basketball team while Amelia listened attentively. Cole caught Annie’s smile in his peripheral vision and felt a sense of rightness settle over him.

At the restaurant, they were seated quickly, with Dawn and Andrew taking a table nearby that allowed them to monitor the surroundings while giving the group privacy. The Steakhouse was elegant without being stuffy, with large windows giving them a stunning view of the mountains.

“This is really nice,” Amelia said softly, looking around with wide eyes.

Annie smiled at the girl. “It is. I’ve only been here once before.”

As their meal progressed, Cole found himself watching Annie interact with Benji and Amelia. She had a natural way with them, drawing out the shy Amelia and tempering Benji’s enthusiasm with gentle guidance. It stirred something in him—a vision of their future together that felt increasingly tangible.

When Annie excused herself to go to the restroom, Benji leaned across the table. “Are you going to marry Annie?” he asked bluntly.

Cole nearly choked on his water. “That’s, uh—”

“Because I think you should,” Benji continued, undeterred. “She smiles differently when you’re around.”

“Does she?” Cole felt warmth spread through his chest. “Well, I care about her very much. But these things take time, you know?”

“Not too much time,” Benji advised, with the wisdom of a teenager who’d seen too many romantic movies. “When you know, you know.”

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