Page 98 of Under the Texas Sky
TRENT
My excitement thrums in my veins, the texts between me and Mitch burning in my phone. Oh my gosh, this is really happening. Something me and Kian have talked about for years is coming to fruition, and I hope he’s as excited as I am.
I planned on waking up and cooking him breakfast, but he beat me to it.
He’s been so good to me, so much better than I deserve. Kian has been making it his life's mission to make my life easier, no matter how many times I want to shake him to get it through his thick head that the only thing I need in my life is him.
This is a big step for us, but I think we’re ready for it, and I know Kian will love it. He’ll be surprised, and scared for sure at first, but it’ll come to him as easy as breathing.
Mitch confirms with me that he’ll be at the park and ready with the surprise. I’m jittery.
I told Kian after we finished breakfast that I wanted to go to the park before we opened our presents. It’s become a tradition to go there on our anniversary, birthdays, and holidays. We have a tradition of going thereafterwe open presents, but I’m changing our plans this year because I’m not sure if I can keep quiet.
Kian cued up our playlist, and we’re on our way to the park as “Say You Won’t Let Go”by James Arthur croons through the speakers. Kian’s eyes are focused out the window while his finger traces patterns against my thigh. I can’t hold his hand right now, because he’ll feel how clammy my palm is.
Finally, fucking finally, I pull into the parking lot, parking the truck and turning it off. Mitch rode with Karuna, because I didn’t trust him enough on his own to be able to accomplish it. Not that I’m doubting him, but it is a big deal.
There’s no cars parked, and the place is completely empty, so at least they listened to my requests.
“You ready? Put your jacket on because it’s cold outside today.”
Not cold enough to snow, but the freezing wind is a pain and I don’t want to risk Kian getting sick. He has a modeling shoot coming up soon, and we already booked the plane tickets and the hotel. We’re staying for a week in New York City, somewhere we haven’t been together, which will be exciting on its own.
“Ready as I’ll ever be,” he says.
Did his voice crack? Is he okay?
“What’s wrong?” I grab his hand in mine before he can pull it off my thigh. The cool, sweaty skin matching my own. “Are you okay?”
He pulls away, laughing nervously. “I’m fine, Trent. Let’s go. We have plans with Mitch later, and you know he’ll complain if we’re late.” He opens his door and gets out before I can do it for him.
We traipse through the brush, walking to the clearing. My heart is in my throat as I watch him walk ahead of me. He’s acting weird right now, and I don’t like it.
Deep breaths, it’s fine. Whatever it is, it’ll all be fine. Kian loves me, and I love him, and my gift won’t change that.
We enter the clearing, Kian’s sign standing loud and proud, declaring this place his. A gift, a memory, a million moments embedded in the soil in this spot. I couldn’t have picked a better place for this surprise.
“Stop right there!” Mitch yells, his voice carrying through the trees and freezing us in our tracks.
Fuck, he better not spoil this surprise. I’ve worked so hard to make this moment perfect for Kian.
“Okay, both of you close your eyes,” he demands, “and I’ll know if you’re peeking. You’re not too old to get your asses whooped.”
I want to say he’s too old to be whooping people’s asses, but that will just make him more determined to do it.
Closing my eyes, I whisper to Kian, “Are yours closed?” He makes an affirmative noise, but I feel his body heat disappear from beside me. “Ki?” I ask, and his voice is farther away now.
“I’m right here. Mitch is dragging me away.”
Okay, so Mitch is going to distract him while Karuna helps me. Perfect.
A small hand lands on my shoulder, but I keep my eyes closed.
“Trent,” Karuna whispers urgently.
I keep my eyes shut tightly because I refuse to fall victim to Mitch’s reign if he finds out I disobey.
“Good, now hold out your hands. Keep them together tightly, so you don’t drop it. Perfect.” She adjusts me, and then turns me around. “Stay right here.” Louder she calls to Mitch, “Are you two ready?”
