“A promise to build us a house with your dream kitchen so you have all the counter space and top-of-the-line appliances you want. But really, it’s a token that I’ll provide for you and our family, as well as support any goal you have in life. I know you want to stay close to your family and work, and your dad’s already helped me scope the land for us to build on.”

Tears fall down her cheeks as she looks at me with awe. “I honestly can’t believe this is happening. It seems too good to be true.”

I brush the pad of my thumb under her eye. “I know what I want, Maize. And that’s you. Since the moment we met, you’re all I’ve thought about. I’ve told myself that if I had the chance to be yours, I’d do anything in my power to make you happy.”

“I love you with all my heart, Gavin. You make me happy.” She leans into my palm, and I kiss her once more.

“Good.” I grin. “Wanna put on the ring?”

Her eyes light up as if she forgot about it. “Yes! Oh my God, it’s so beautiful.”

I slide it onto her left ring finger, and our emotions get the best of us.

“I hate to ask, but…” She lingers on her words for a beat until our eyes connect. “You didn’t happen to ask my father, did you? I know it’s kinda lame in this age, but my family is—”

“Traditional, I know,” I interject. “And yes, of course I did. I’m sure your mother’s pacing the living room waiting for your call.”

Maize bursts out laughing and grabs her phone. “You’re probably right. Let’s quickly FaceTime them so we can dive into that cake!”

Seeing Maize this happy is all I’ve ever wanted, and I’m not sure I could ever come down from this high. I knew it was risky to propose only months into us dating, but I’ve loved her much longer than that. I don’t want to waste any more time. When I spoke with her parents, they were shockingly supportive. Mila cried and John gave me a bear hug, which was hilarious considering I tower over him. But I’m damn glad I’ll be a part of the Bishop family now, even more so that Maize will be my wife.

“Alright, you crazy kids, you have a great rest of your night,” Mila says with a knowing grin.

John takes the phone and looks directly at me. “Remember what we talked about, son?”

“Of course, sir.”

He nods. “Good. Go have fun celebrating now. I have Sandra and Jane lined up in the kitchen tomorrow.”