“I had to get our people here for this,” I said, pulling her into a hug. “This is the start of our family, baby. I wanted everybody to witness it.”

I led her into the grand ballroom.

“Kellon!” She gasped.

Her breath caught in her throat once again as her eyes scanned the room taking in the scenery. I’d spared no expense for the occasion. White roses spilled from tall, gold vases. Gold balloons floated above the tables. Hell, I even had a champagne tower sparkling under a chandelier. The focal point was the crystal sign that hung from the ceiling.

Welcome Baby Barnes!

“Is this our baby shower?” She slapped my arm in shock.

“Yes, it is!

“Surprise!” our family called out, making their way down the stairs as the Vogue photographer snapped pictures.

“You… you threw me a surprise baby shower?” She barely got it out through her sobs.

“And proposed.” I grinned. “Had to remind you who your man is. I told you on day one this was our fairytale, baby.”

“The best fairytale ever.” She laughed through her tears as Vogue’s lead editor approached us with her camera crew trailing just behind her.

“Kellon, Phileigh, congratulations. Everything is absolutely beautiful. The proposal? Chef’s kiss,” she said, smiling. “We’d love to get a few shots over by the floral arch for the piece and then maybe a few with Jazmine.”

“You called Vogue?” Phileigh glanced at me in disbelief.

“Exclusive spread.” I shrugged. “Figured this was going to make the tabloids anyway. Might as well tell it our way.”

She shook her head, looking overwhelmed. “You’re unreal. I’m going to be in Vogue!”

“You sure are, beautiful.” The editor smiled as we made our way over to the window where the floral arch was.

We posed for a few photos. I kissed her forehead in one shot and cradled her belly in another. “These are perfect. We’re going to grab a few candid photos, and then we’ll let you two enjoy the rest of your big night. Someone will be in touch for the interview later.” I nodded as Phileigh thanked the photographers.

“To Kellon and Phileigh!” Cheers erupted in the air as champagne glasses clinked together.

I thought winning the Super Bowl would be the highlight of my life, but then I walked Phileigh down that candlelit path tonight and made her my fiancée, and I knew nothing I’d ever accomplished could top this.

“I have something to say!” Braelon stood up from the crowd, and I sighed.

I didn’t know whose idea it was to start doing speeches, but we needed to wrap it up. I dropped my head knowing this nigga was about to air me out in front of everybody. He cleared his throat and hit his glass with a spoon.