Page 61 of Whisk Me Away
"Brant," she breathed. "Yes! Yes, of course, I'll marry you!" Karis launched herself at me before I had a chance to stand fully. I caught her midair and swung her around. When I set her back on her feet, I took her hand and placed the ring on her finger.
"Brant, it's perfect. I love it so much. I love you so much," Karis said through her sobs.
"It was my grandmother's, and my mom wants you to have it," I said, placing my hands on each of her cheeks.
"I'd be honored," Karis said.
As we held each other, I felt Karis' breathing match mine. Brushing a strand of hair away from her face, I gazed into her eyes, seeing all the love and trust we had built reflected back at me.
Slowly, I leaned in, capturing Karis' lips in a tender kiss. It started softly, a gentle exploration. My heart swelled with affection as I savored the taste and feel of her against me.
As the kiss deepened, a fire ignited within me, fueled by the passion that burned between us. I pulled her closer, losing myself in the sweet ecstasy of our connection. It was a kiss filled with longing, promise, and the silent vow of forever.
Our lips moved together in perfect harmony, a dance of love and desire. At that moment, nothing else mattered but the two of us, bound together in a whirlwind of emotion.
When we finally pulled away, breathless and flushed, I rested my forehead against Karis', my heart beating rapidly. As we stood there, hand in hand, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the incredible gift of Karis’ love.
As much as I wanted to stay in this little bubble we'd created, the day wasn't over. I glanced down at my watch, double-checking the time. By the time we made it back down the mountain, it should have been time to head to the bakery.
"Let's go, Peach," I smiled before leaning down and stealing a quick kiss.
"Where do we have to go?" Karis questioned.
"The surprises aren't over," I shot her a wink before shoving the blanket into my backpack.
With our hands clasped together, we headed back down the trail. Occasionally, I would catch Karis holding up her left hand and admiring the ring, and just seeing my ring on her finger sent a shot of pride coursing through my body.
As we pulled into the back lot behind Whisk Me Away, my heart pounded with excitement, knowing that behind those doors awaited a group of people ready and waiting to celebrate our engagement. Karis sat beside me, oblivious to the flurry of emotions swirling within me. Her eyes filled with confusion as she took in where we were.
"Why are we at the bakery?" Karis asked from the passenger seat.
Suppressing a grin, I turned to Karis, marveling at her beauty, her radiance lighting up the dimming evening. I couldn't help but feel a surge of love for her. How could I have gotten so lucky to have her by my side?
"When I came in earlier, I think I left my wallet on the counter. I couldn't pass up a blueberry crumble muffin when you weren't here." The lie rolled off my tongue smoothly.
Karis nodded as we both climbed out and headed for the back door. She unlocked the door and pulled it open, allowing me to enter. Taking a deep breath, I reached for Karis's hand, squeezing it gently as I prepared to reveal the surprise waiting just beyond the kitchen doors. My pulse quickened, my nerves tingling with anticipation.
I pushed the door open, and as we stepped through, everyone in front of the bakery yelled, “Surprise!" A hand flew to her chest, and she let out a loud gasp.
"Oh my goodness!" She whispered.
Karis turned toward me with teary eyes and threw her arms around my neck. I slipped my arms around her waist and held her close.
"You did all this for me?" She asked.
"Of course," I whispered against her hair.
Karis laughed as she pulled away from me. I immediately missed her heat. We made our way around the room, saying hello to all our friends and family. Karis proudly showed off the ring that would now take up permanent residence on her ring finger.
My brothers were quick to offer their congratulations, each with a hearty slap on the back and a genuine smile. "Congratulations, man," Brock said, clapping me on the shoulder. “It looks like you finally found yourself a keeper."
"Yeah, Brant, we're happy for you," Brooks chimed in with a grin.
I laughed, feeling a surge of affection for my brothers. "Thanks, guys."
I moved through the room until I found Gram, her eyes twinkling with mischief as she pulled me aside for a private chat. "Well, Brant, you've found yourself a real gem," she said, her voice filled with pride. "You take good care of her now, you hear?"
I nodded, feeling a lump form in my throat at the thought of the wisdom and love that Gram had always imparted to me. "I will, Gram. I promise."