Epilogue
Beth
The leaves are falling, creating a crunch beneath my feet. The air is crisp, filled with the sweet aroma of hot cocoa. Autumn in Meadowbrook is magical.
“Matthew, I promise you’re going to love it,” I tell him over the phone.
“Of course I will, Beth. You could throw a party in a dumpster and I’d still have a good time.” His warm laughter dances through the line.
I giggle, shaking my head as I walk into Coffee Loft. “I’ll see you at 6pm sharp. Don’t be late.”
“I wouldn’t dream of it. See you soon.”
I hang up, tucking my phone back into my pocket before scanning the room. Desi stands near the counter, speaking with Owen. I can see Cassie behind them, her hands full of fabric streamers and balloons. Emma and Ashley are putting centerpieces on the tables. A smile spreads across my face. I’ve known these people for years, and with their help, this evening is going to be unforgettable.
I’ve been planning this event for months, poring over every detail with Cassie, the event planner queen. Matthew completed his first Summit Pro Tour and was in the top forty-five. As a Summit Pro Tour rookie, that’s amazing!
“Oh, look who finally decided to show up,” Desi teases, a cheeky smile on her face as she spots me.
“Desi, be nice,” Owen chides her gently. His dark brown eyes seem to sparkle under the overhead lights.
I roll my eyes at them. “Owen, aren’t you supposed to be with Matthew to make sure he arrives on time?”
“I, uh, thought you girls might need some muscle,” Owen stammers, rubbing the back of his neck. “Nick’s with him anyway.”
Coffee Loft is already halfway decorated, with twinkling lights wrapped around the room and balloons tied around.
Emma comes up beside me and whispers, “More like he has an eye on your other bestie.”
I glance back at her, a playful smirk pulling at my lips. “Is that so?”
She blushes lightly as she nods. “Yeah, but don’t tell my brother I said that.”
My gaze flickers back to Owen, standing there with a slightly lovesick expression as he chats with Desi.
How did I not see that?
I chuckle. “Your secret’s safe with me.”
As we work together, finishing the last-minute details, everything is falling into place perfectly. The room is classy yet filled with warmth. Just the right atmosphere for Matthew’s celebration.
“Ready for the big night?” Cassie suddenly asks, startling me out of my thoughts.
“I’m more than ready,” I respond confidently, tying off the last balloon. “Matthew has worked so hard, and I want to make sure tonight is special for him.”
“It’s going to be the perfect night,” she says, squeezing my shoulder.
I take one last look around before I change into my dress and touch up my lipstick. When I come out of the bathroom, guests have started to arrive. I pick Maggie and Alison’s faces out from the growing crowd.
“Beth, you’ve outdone yourself. It looks wonderful,” Maggie says, her voice filled with admiration.
“Thank you. But really, it was a group effort. I couldn’t have done it by myself.”
Alison gives me a knowing look. “You’re always so humble.”
I shake my head, blushing at her compliment. “I’m so glad you’re here! I was nervous you wouldn’t be able to make it.”
“We wouldn’t dream of missing it,” Maggie says lovingly. “Plus, we get to see your hometown. It’s beautiful. I see why Matthew came here for solitude.”
Just as I’m about to respond, the door swings open and in walks Matthew, arm in arm with Nick. His eyes scan the room, and when they land on me, his face lights up.
Matthew looks dashing; his tousled hair is perfectly styled, and he’s wearing a black suit that fits him like a dream. His wide smile lights up his face as he takes in the decorated room and sees all his friends and family gathered together.
“Wow,” he says, releasing Nick to walk toward me.
“I told you,” I whisper to him as he approaches me, “you’d love it.”
He wraps an arm around my waist, pressing a quick kiss to my temple. “I do,” he agrees. “But I wasn’t referring to the party.”
My heart does a little flip, and I find myself blushing. “You’re such a charmer. You look quite handsome yourself.”
“Well, I am the guest of honor.”
“I suppose you are,” I reply, feigning disgruntlement. “It’s only right that you look the part.”
Matthew laughs, pulling me closer. The door opens again, and in walk my parents, followed closely by my brother.
The sight of them triggers an abrupt surge of emotion, and I blink rapidly, trying to keep unexpected tears at bay. My family has been supportive of everything I’ve done.
“We’re so proud of you, Beth.” My mother squeezes me tightly.
“Cassie did most of the work.”
“I’m not talking about the party, honey. Who you’ve become. Chasing after your dreams. Falling in love.”
“We’re just so happy for you,” my father says gruffly, his eyes soft and slightly misty. He claps Matthew on the shoulder.
As they go mingle, I turn to Matthew. “Why are they so emotional? It’s a party; it’s supposed to be fun, upbeat.”
He chuckles, wrapping an arm around me. “You’ve really no idea, do you?” He shakes his head, looking fondly at me.
“What’s that supposed to mean?” I ask, suddenly feeling a little defensive.
Before he can answer, Cassie appears with a glass of champagne for each of us. “It’s time for the toast.”
I look at Matthew questioningly, but he just gives me a reassuring squeeze. Then we’re stepping up on a makeshift stage. The room quiets down as everyone turns their attention toward us. In the hush, my heartbeat seems deafening.
“Wow.” I glance around at the gathered faces, so many people that matter in our lives. “It’s incredible to see all of you here today to celebrate Matthew’s success.” My voice trembles a bit, but I swallow and steady it. “Matthew is more than just an amazing pro golfer—he’s also an incredible person. He’s generous, kind, and he’s possibly the most stubborn person I’ve ever met,” I continue, earning a few chuckles from the crowd. Our eyes meet, and I see warmth and love radiating from his gaze. “You’ve shown everyone here tonight what it means to chase your dreams. You have proven that with hard work comes great reward. And we’re all so incredibly proud of you.”
After a pause, I raise my glass to make a toast. “To Matthew and his wonderful journey. May your future be even brighter. Cheers!”
The room erupts into cheers and applause as everyone raises their glasses in tribute. Matthew grins widely, his cheeks turning a shade of pink that matches mine.
“Thank you, Beth,” Matthew starts but then clears his throat. “Thank you, everyone, for being here to celebrate this milestone, for believing in me, and for supporting me.
“To my mom, who has always been my number one fan. To my dad, even though he’s not here with us tonight. I know he would have been proud of the man I’ve become. To my sister, who is wise beyond her years. To Travis, who’s always had my back and done what’s best for my career.
“To Nick, my caddy and friend, who always knows just what to say to keep me humble. To Owen, for being like a brother and always there when I need something,” he continues, his gaze sweeping the room. Each person he mentions nods or gives a little wave. “And to my Meadowbrook family. You’ve welcomed me with open arms. It feels like home every time I’m here.”
His gaze finally finds mine once more. “And to Beth.” His voice softens when he says my name. It sends a shiver down my spine. “You helped me find myself when I didn’t even know I was lost. With you, I found more than just love. I found a partner, a confidant, a cheerleader.” His eyes never leave mine, his voice filled with raw emotion. “It’s because of you that I stand here today, not just as a successful golfer, but a man who is happier than he’s ever been.”
Before I can say anything, he kneels down on one knee, and the room falls to silence. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a small velvet box.
“Elisabeth Anne Mitchell, will you marry me?”
Tears well up in my eyes as I look at him. A sob of happiness escapes me as I nod frantically, unable to form words amidst the whirlwind of emotions.
“Yes,” I manage finally, rushing forward to hug him tight, the cheers growing louder around us.
Matthew stands, sweeping me into his arms and twirling me around. As he sets me down, he slides the diamond ring onto my finger. The ring is as unique as our love story.
Suddenly, I’m wrapped in a group hug by Desi, Alison, Cassie, Ashley, and Emma, their squeals of delight mixing with my joyful tears. Owen, Nick, and Ethan are next, giving firm handshakes, and our parents follow suit.
Now, it all makes sense why everyone was so emotional tonight. They had been in on the secret all along.
“I love you, Beth,” Matthew whispers, his voice thick with emotion. He cups my face in his hands, his thumbs brushing away the tears rolling down my cheeks.
“And I love you,” I reply, my voice shaky but firm.
The room once again erupts into cheers as Matthew pulls me into a passionate kiss that sends my heart soaring. And just like that, surrounded by our loved ones under the glow of twinkling lights, I’m engaged to the man I love. The End
I hope you fell in love with Matthew and Beth.