Chapter 31
Nick
I sat at the island, drinking my coffee and staring at Claire as she made waffles for breakfast. I was so in love with her and didn’t think I could ever be this happy.
“Here you go.” She brightly smiled, setting the plate of waffles in front of me.
“Thanks, babe. They look great.”
“I have to go get ready.” She leaned over the island and kissed me.
I grabbed my phone and texted Sam, Stefan, Sebastian, Simon, and Shaun, asking them to come over in about an hour.
“You look beautiful.” I smiled as Claire emerged from the bedroom.
“Thanks.” She grinned. “I’ll see you later. I love you, Dr. Russo.”
“I love you too, babe.” I smiled, walking her to the door. “Have fun with the girls.”
“I will.” Our lips met.
I made another cup of coffee and took it outside on the patio. A few moments later, Claire’s brothers walked over.
“What’s up, man?” Simon asked.
“Thank you all for coming. There’s something I need to talk to you about.”
“Don’t tell us there’s trouble in paradise,” Sebastian said.
“No.” I chuckled. “The opposite.” I pulled the small velvet ring box from my pocket and flipped the lid. “I want to ask Claire to marry me, but I wanted to get your permission first. After all, she is your sister, and you’re very protective of her.” I smirked.
“Damn. That’s a beautiful ring.” Shaun grinned.
“I don’t know,” Simon said. “What do you all think? Is he worthy of our sister?”
“Dude, really?” I cocked my head.
“Do you promise to love her for eternity?” Stefan asked.
“Yes, of course.”
“You have our blessing.” Sam smiled. “We’re just fucking with you.” He hugged me.
“Welcome to the family, Dr. Russo.” Sebastian smiled.
“I’m nervous. What if she says no? What if she’s not ready for marriage?”
“She’s ready.” Simon smiled, placing his hand on my shoulder. “Stop worrying.”
“When are you going to propose?” Shaun asked.
“I’ve been thinking about that. I want it to be very special and romantic—a day she’ll never forget.”
“Then you’ve called the right people.” Stefan grinned.
“We’re as romantic as they come.” Sam smiled.
“I think the boat would be romantic,” Sebastian said.
“I have an idea.” A grin crossed Shaun’s face.
The Next Day
“Ican’t believe the hospital called you in.” Claire pouted. “We were supposed to go on the boat.”
“I know, babe. I’m sorry. The ER is short a doctor and needs me.” I kissed the top of her head, holding her tight in my arms. “You go have an awesome day with your family. I’ll see you tonight and make it up to you.”
“How?” She lifted her head and stared at me.
“You’ll find out later.” I winked. “But I promise you’ll forgive me.”
“I can’t wait.” She reached up and kissed my lips.
“I have to shower and get out of here.” I climbed out of bed.
I made sure to shave before pretending to leave for the hospital. Noticing the spots on the mirror, I grabbed the cleaner and cloth from under the sink and wiped it down.
“Good boy.” Claire smiled, wrapping her arms around me from behind. “Julia just called and said they’re leaving in five minutes, so I have to go. Have a good day at the hospital.”
“Have a good day on the boat.” I smiled, kissing her lips.
“I would if you were there with me.” Her lips formed a pout.
“Like I said. I’ll make it up to you later. Now go.”
She walked out of the house, and I let out a breath. I knew I shouldn’t have been nervous, but I was. I wanted this to be perfect. I stared at the three-carat princess-cut flawless diamond in the blue velvet box. I called my parents last week and told them I was proposing to Claire. They had only met her over Facetime because I wasn’t interested in going back to Seattle, and they showed no interest in coming to Los Angeles to meet her in person, which was fine with me. They seemed to like her, but I could care less if they didn’t.
The sliding door opened, and Shaun walked in.
“You ready?” He smiled. “Jenni just texted me and said they’re out on the water.”
“I’m ready.” I placed the box in my pocket.
Jenni had told Claire that Shaun wasn’t feeling well and decided to stay back. They left his boat at the dock and took out the others. When we reached the marina and climbed on his boat, I smiled when I went up on deck and saw the beautiful red and white rose arrangements on each side with red rose petals scattered all over the deck floor.
“This looks great, Shaun.” I placed my hand on his shoulder. “I can’t thank you enough.”
“Anything for my future brother-in-law. Let’s get this baby out on the water so you can propose to my sister.”