Page 12 of Addicted to the Lumberjack

“That’s awesome.”

“She’s an amazing kid. Thank you for giving me a niece.”

I chuckled. “Almost. Let’s see if Zola says yes tonight.”

Malia blanched. “Are you crazy? That woman is obsessed with you. Quite Franklin, I don’t see the appeal.”

“Haha, sis. Yes, you do, you love me.”

“That I do. And I expect more nieces and nephews.”

“I’ll make sure to let Zola know.”

“Good. Now where’s the ring? I want to see it.”

I pulled out the box I’ve carried around in my pocket for weeks now. I couldn’t put it down, couldn’t bear to part with it, even though I specifically planned tonight as the night to ask.

Holding it open for Malia, I watched her face for her first reaction satisfied with the large smile she gave me. “It’s gorgeous Mateo! Zola is going to love it!”

“I hope so.”

“Trust me from a woman’s point of view. That rock is nice.”

“Thanks, sis. And thanks again for tonight. I’ll keep you posted.”

“You don’t need to. I know that woman is going to say yes. I see how you two look at each other. It’s real Mateo.” I could only hope for a love like that.”

“For some reason, I have a feeling Apple Falls will be good to you, too.”

And later that night, after a delicious dinner I cooked, I got down on one knee and held out the ring. Zola screamed and covered her mouth, tears filling her eyes. “Oh, my God! Mateo!”

“I love you so much. It would be an hour to spend the rest of my life with you.”

“Yes! yes! A thousand times, yes!” Zola jumped up and down as I got to my feet, slid the ring on, and wrapped my large arms around her.

I squeezed her tight and kissed her again and again. “I love you.”

“I love you. And I kind of have another surprise.” Zola whispered in my ear before leaning back.

I searched her gorgeous eyes, so much love and happiness reflected back.

And then she said the words I’d been hoping she would.

“I’m pregnant.”

Two months later, Charlotte and Zola moved into my cabin.

five months later, I married her.

And after a long nine months, our son was born.

We’d created our family, and for that, I would always treasure my love for her.

THE END