It wasn’t until we made it to the beautiful rose garden that my heart completely fell out of my ass. I mean, I wasn’t sure if that was actually possible, but that’s how it felt. “Amanda Matthews,” Oakley said. My strong man was shaking and looked like he was about to puke.

“Are you okay?”

“Yes,” he replied quickly.

“WAS THAT AMANDA? DID SHE SAY YES?” a voice asked.

I blinked. That sounded like… “Is my mother here?” I asked, looking around. Oakley quickly reached up and grabbed my chin, forcing me to look at him.

“Be quiet, dear. You’ll ruin the surprise,” my father said in a whisper-shout. I chewed on the inside of my cheek to stop the bright smile from crossing my features. Tears filled my eyes.

Oakley let out a sigh and shook his head, his own grin breaking out. “Amanda Matthews,” he began again.

“Oh! Oh! It’s happening,” my mother squealed. I couldn’t see where she was hiding, but I had to guess she was somewhere behind a shrub.

“For fuck’s sake,” Oakley grumbled under his breath before raising his voice. “Come on out, Mr. and Mrs. Matthews. Mom, you too,” he shouted hopelessly before grabbing my hands. “They’re terrible at secrets,” he then whispered to me.

Movement to my left grabbed my attention, but my eyes locked on Oakley’s the moment he dropped to one knee. “Oh, Crosby. LOOK! It’s happening,” my mother yelled.

“Amanda Matthews,” Oakley began once again.

I shook my head. “Are you going to ask me to marry you, or what?” I teased.

“I had an entire speech planned,” he groaned.

“Well, get on with it then,” I joked back.

“I love you. I love you more than all the roses in all the world. I love your smile. Your confidence. Your grace. Your determination and grit. I love how you make me a better person. I love waking up with you by my side and falling asleep with you in my arms. I want to have a family with you—one day.”

“I can’t wait to be a grandma!” Mom whispered.

Oakley grinned. “I love you more than anything. I love every version of you. Every piece of your heart, mind, body, and soul.” I was a sobbing mess. Every word made my heart bloom. “Will you do me the absolute honor of becoming my wife?” he asked, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a ring. I didn’t even look at the diamond. I reached for Oakley and yanked him up to a standing position so I could wrap him in a big hug.

“Yes, Problem. I will marry you. I love you so much,” I cried. Oakley picked me up and spun me around, cheering as we moved in circles.

“I love you too, Solver.”

A Note from the Authors

Hey there! Thank you so much for reading!