Page 112 of Mr. Red

Even my dad is here. He has come around to Matt. It took several awkward dinners, but the two of them are getting along—or at least they’re tolerating each other. My dad even showed up with a date of his own; I hope he’ll find happiness in a relationship like I have.

I go over to Lana and Paige. Lana has had an admirer all night. I’m sure he thought he was smooth, but anyone could tell he’s into Lana. Grant has been around quite often since Matt moved to Washington. He could stay with his parents, but opted to hang out with us as long as possiblewhile he has business in town. He’s down to earth, cares a lot about helping people, and is nice to have around to see him bust my guy’s balls. It’s a good time.

“Lana, did you meet Grant?” I push.

“Don’t get me started with Grant.”

“You know the Viking in a suit?” I raise an eyebrow.

“I knowofhim. He used to be my brother’s best friend, and I’d see him around. I don’t know if he remembers me. We stayed to ourselves growing up.”

“He’s been staring at you the whole party.”

“He has a man bun,” she deadpans.

“The better to ride him with, my dear.” Paige laughs.

“The fact that you think I’d even consider a man bun on a guy is funny.”

“If you look past his man bun, he’s pretty hot. He’s cool; maybe give him a little more credit.”

She rolls her eyes and doesn’t say anything else.

“Are you guys alright? Do you need more drinks?” I’m trying to be a good host.

“Scarlett, go mingle. We’re perfectly fine ogling after all these hot execs you’ve brought around,” Paige throws out. “We can’t include you in our ogling activities now because you’re committed.”

“No clients, Paige! I could ogle, but no one would compare,” I explain.

“There goes my lunch,” Lana states.

“Shut up!” I push her with a giggle.

“I’m just teasing you. It’s nice to see you happy and with someone. Even though I knew the entire time you’d be together. Whatever. If I have to hear how perfect he is again, I’m going to barf all over your dress. It would be a good time for you to leave,” Lana explains.

“Amen,” Paige agrees.

“Hey!” I can’t believe they aren’t including me in their perusing. I’ve always been a part of their perusing. Why are they trying to shoo me away?

“We love you!” They literally push me towards the other groups and blow a fake kiss as I walk away. I’m tempted to catch the kiss and put it on my ass. It wouldn’t look very professional, though. Since I’ve invited some potential clients and Matt’s colleagues, I’m going to put my attitude on standby.

Matt stands up in a navy suit with a crisp, white shirt and no tie. I was thinking it’s a bit formal for a barbeque, but he insisted we both dress up a little. Then he raises his arms, commanding the whole lot of people.

“Thank you, everyone for coming to our lil barbeque. I’m hoping to bring a little Texas to you. Washington has certainly grown on me—more like a certain person has.” He stares at me and walks towards me. “From the moment I learned Scarlett’s name, I knew we were supposed to meet. Actually, the way we did meet was magnetic, but anyway.” He grabs my hands, staring into my eyes. His wrist with his watch twitches.

He’s nervous.

“It’s not hard to fall for you. You’re beautiful, but more than that, you have such a fun and carefree side. You challenge me, you’re never afraid to be who you are, and you’re just as organized as I am.” I grin and he chuckles.

“Scarlett Daniels, I couldn’t bear to be apart from you. I don’t intend to be apart from you ever again. I’d move anywhere, do anything, buy whatever you want to keep you by my side, because you have managed to take my heart.”

I hear some aw-ing in the background, but I can barely focus once Matt drops to one knee.

“Please ensure you’ll always be my other half for therest of our lives. Will you marry me?”

I glance over at my friends who are holding each other’s hands, smiling ear to ear. Paige is filming. They knew! Those little brats! No wonder they were trying to get rid of me.

I stare back at Matt and throw my arms around his neck, sit on his knee, and whisper through tears, “Yes, of course!”

---