Page 14 of Saving Stella
Stella couldn’t help the squeal that escaped her mouth as she typed her reply.
OMG! That’s wonderful, Devon.
She hasn’t said yes yet
I’m sure she will.
I’m waiting for the right time to pop the question. I’ve never been so nervous about anything in my life.
Pausing, she thought of what advice her parents would give in this situation.
If you really love her, then anytime is the right time.
You’re right. Thank you.
Stella sighed aloud. It sounded so romantic, and from what she could tell, Devon was truly head over heels in love with Charley.
Would she ever feel that way for anyone?
Or have anyone feel the same about her?
“You’ve been awfully chipper for the last couple of days.”
Panic shot through her at the familiar voice from behind her.
“H-hey, Tyler,” she croaked. She clutched the phone to her chest, praying he hadn’t seen her screen. Though he remained at Crestholm, she’d avoided him since that night of their non-date and hadn’t spoken to him since.
“Hey yourself, stranger.” He raised an eyebrow at her phone. “So … you talking to someone special? Or have you decided to get back on the apps?”
“No,” she said defensively, though she really wanted to tell him it wasn’t any of his business, especially after what happened. Grabbing her papers, she stood up. “If you’ll excuse me, I should get to class.”
She brushed past him, then hurried out of the faculty room. As she walked down the corridor, she glanced back at the screen, where another message waited for her.
I don’t want a public proposal, but I’m planning to have Charley’s family there. I was thinking, it would be nice if you were there.
When I propose, I mean.
So, I can have my family there too.
Stella’s stomach swooped at the word family. It was the first time either of them acknowledged the connection between them. Besides, that’s why they were texting, right? So they could get to know each other.
“Eeep!” she squealed when her phone began to vibrate and the screen flashed Devon’s name. The camera icon in green indicated he wanted a video call. Her heart thudded in her chest, and she practically dove into the nearest empty classroom as she answered the call.
“H-hey,” she breathed, trying to sound casual as Devon’s face appeared on the screen. They’d been exchanging photos for the last couple of days so she wasn’t too alarmed at seeing him on her phone, but the last and only time she’d seen him was during their first meeting.
His blue eyes twinkled as a smile lit up his face. “Sorry, is this a bad time?”
“No, not at all.” She chomped at her bottom lip with her teeth.
“Great. So …” A sheepish expression crossed his face. “I just realized that question was a bit out of left field, and I wanted to see if you were okay. I’m sorry if you feel cornered.”
“I-it’s fine.”
“So, what do you think?”
“Think about?”
“Coming to visit me. In New York, maybe? Didn’t you say you have a break coming up in two weeks?”