Page 77 of Our Broken Pieces
“I don’t care.” She dabs under her eyes. “Marcus, why are you doing all of this?”
“Because it’s a special day.”
“I’m really overwhelmed right now.”
“Is that a good thing or a bad thing?”
“It’s really good, like scary good.”
“I don’t know what that means.”
She blows her nose. “It just means I feel really special right now, and I am really happy you’re my fake boyfriend.”
I hate that word. Fake. Nothing I feel today is fake. And that fact has me scared as fuck.
I place my hands on her hips. “It makes me feel really good that you feel special. Dry your eyes, let’s go eat.”
“Yes, Charming.”
“I can’t believe I’m eating inside Cinderella’s castle.” Gigi takes a sip of water.
“I ate inside Cinderella’s castle once.” I smile around my bite of steak.
“Did you just make a dirty joke?!”
“Maybe.” I shrug.
“I’m so proud of you right now.”
“Thank you.”
We continue eating until I see Cinderella walking up to our table. “Look behind you, princess.”
She turns and sucks in a breath. The actress smiles at her and approaches the table. I sit back, watching their interaction: the wonder in Gigi’s eyes, the way her voice is a little shaky. Childhood Gigi is present at this moment, and I hope she’s having a good time.
After their brief exchange, it’s picture time, so we both stand from the table and pose. Once that’s done, Gigi hugs the actress before she moves onto the next table.
“I freaking met Cinderella. Marcus, this is the best day ever.”
“Well, leave room for dessert. We have one more stop after we’re done here.”
Chapter Fifty-Three
Gigi
We left dinner a little after eight, and after a quick walk, we’re on a patio, seated at a table overlooking Cinderella’s castle. Marcus orders champagne and little desserts, chocolate-covered strawberries and other finger foods are delivered.
At nine on the dot, the fireworks start. The night sky is lit up, glowing against Marcus’ skin. This day made so many of my childhood dreams come true. As I look across the table at this man, who is still wearing a prince costume, I feel the drop in my chest. I feel the loss of control I have over my heart. I’m lucky enough to experience Marcus as my friend, but today, I experienced him as my boyfriend. I’m entirely fucked, and I really don’t give a damn right now.
“Have you had a good day, princess?” He sets his champagne glass down, linking my hand in his on the table.
“This has been one of the best days of my life, Marcus. I don’t even know how to thank you.”
He grins, running his thumb along the links of the bracelet on my wrist. “I can think of a way.”
“How is that?”
He raises from his chair, taking something out of his pocket and lowers to one knee beside me. My brain backfires, and my eyes become wet.
