Page 178 of New Growth
“What do you think about marriage, Ellie?” El asked casually. “Would you ever consider marrying someone else?”
I tilted my head, arching a brow. “You mean you?”
He smiled, a slow, knowing thing. “I meant in general.”
“I never really thought about it before,” I admitted, glancing out at the crowd. “It wasn’t something I was looking for.”
“And now?”
I looked back at him. “I’m not opposed.”
A softness settled over his expression. He reached for my hand on his chest, his thumb brushing across my knuckles. “I’d love to marry you one day, Ellie. You know that, right?”
I gave him a look. “Elliot, you absolutely cannot propose to me at my sister’s wedding.”
He laughed. “I wasn’t going to. I just wanted you to know.”
My eyes narrowed. “What’s going on with you?”
He hesitated for a moment, then glanced around at the reception hall.
“I don’t know,” he said finally. “Being around all this… It’s making me feel protective of you. I don’t want you to feel lonely here. You’re loved. I need you to know that.”
My chest tightened. “I know I am, El. But you’re freaking me out a little. I thought you were about to tell me you’re dying.”
He laughed again, his shoulders shaking. “I promise I’m in perfect health for now. You know—chronic illness aside.”
“Good,” I said, giving his hand another squeeze. “Let’s just focus on getting through today with our sanity intact.”
He leaned in and pressed a kiss to my temple. “Okay, Peanut.”
“And you’re loved too,” I added softly. “I love you. Very much.”
His eyes warmed. “I know, baby.”
I laid my head on his chest as we rocked slowly to the music. Across the room, Ryan and Jonathan posed for pictures. Her hand was on his chest and his fingers held her waist like he was born with her shape memorized. They looked good together.
My smile faded as I watched them. I wondered…
Had he changed?
Was he gentle with her the way he never could be with me?
Did he listen to her, respect her, love her?
Or did she just know how to keep him in check in ways I never could?
I felt El shift beside me, but I couldn’t take my eyes off them.
“Do you think they were always meant to be together?” I asked quietly, the words tasting bitter. “And maybe I was just the one that got in the way?”
“Who?” he asked. “Your cheating-ass ex and your backstabbing sister?” He glanced across the room and snorted. “Yes. A match made in fucking heaven.”
“Stop it,” I said, nudging him lightly. “You know what I mean. Like… maybe it’s already decided who we end up with.”
El tilted his head. “You mean like soulmates?”
“Do you believe in that?”
