Hearing him talk about a ceremony makes butterflies in my belly, but I’m a little nervous to. “Masen,” I say seriously, “I think we have a few things to talk about.” I’m embarrassed. I’d rather not have a repeat of this morning.

He looks at me, all traces of humor gone. “You’re right. We do.” He pushes his empty bowl away and grabs my hand. “Will you sit with me, please?” he asks quietly. I think he wants me close which makes me kinda nervous. Is he going to tell me something bad? I nod my head. He stands and leads me through the kitchen. “I built this house about a year after we met. I knew we’d need a bigger place, so I started planning right away. I didn’t want to start building too soon because I didn’t want people to question why I was in a hurry to move. When I did start to build, I just said I needed a little space.”

My hand is tucked into his bent elbow. I look up at him as we walk, and he talks. “To tell you the truth, I planned everything around us. It took almost a year to finish, but when it was done, I had the hardest time moving in.” We are standing in front of the door to the atrium. “I built almost every room with you in mind. Some rooms, I made entirely for you.” He points to the door.

My heart is pounding. “Wait, you made this room for me? This specific room, for me?”

His head tilts, and his brow wrinkles in curiosity. “Yes, this is one of the rooms. You’ve been in here?”

I hold up my hand to stall his question. “Did you take anyone else in this room?” My voice is eager.

Now, he’s really confused. “No.” He shakes his head in denial. “I’ve barely been in this room.”

“Oh my God, oh my God, really?” In my excitement, I jump up onto him, wrapping my legs around his waist, kissing all over his gorgeous face. “Yes, yes, I’ve been in this room. When I was trying to leave. I was hoping it led outside. This is the most beautiful room I’ve ever seen. I love the swing. Did you make it? Or have it made? Where’d you get the idea? Ooh I love it, I love it.” When he doesn’t answer, I look at and see a small kinda sad smile on his face. “Ah sorry,” I say while unwrapping my legs, not sure how to take his quiet.

“No, you don’t,” he says while squeezing my butt. “I like you mounting me.” He winks as he opens the door and walks in. The bright afternoon sunlight filters through the light blue glass giving the room a sunny glow. The white-washed wooden floors add an airy feel of the room. I unlock my arms from around his neck to turn and take in the rest of the room.

“I love this room,” I whisper. “I was so jealous when I saw this space. So jealous, I couldn’t see straight. I thought you made it for her, or she made it for the both of you. I got sick thinking about her being here,” I admit.