Beautiful Beast - Page 132

“Oh, Adam.” Tears pour down my cheeks and there are so many things I want to say, but my throat is thick and aching.

“I’ve wanted to propose to you for months, but I decided to wait for this moment. It’s so pivotal being here with you. Exploring the world together. Having you in my bed all night, exactly where you belong. And, most importantly, being fully healed.”

I start to protest, but he raises his hand to stop me.

“On the inside. You helped me accept myself no matter how I look, but PTSD was going to ruin my life and tear us apart. Now it isn’t. And it’s thanks to you being my partner and encouraging me to do the work that I needed to do to be who I want to be.”

“I love you so much,” I manage through my tears.

“I love you, my beautiful princess Belle. Will you marry me?”

“Yes. Of course, I will. Adam, you’re my dream come true. And I never want to stop having adventures with you.”

Adam slides the ring on my finger, and it’s the perfect fit and the perfect piece. But there’s uncertainty all over his face.

“If you don’t like the ring, I’ll understand. Just tell me and I’ll get you anything you want. I can obviously afford something more extravagant if that’s what you want, it’s just that I… I wanted you to have this ring because it feels like I’m giving you a piece of my heart and the only good part of my history.”

I drop down to my knees and cup his jaw, staring into his eyes. “It’s absolutely stunning, and I am so honored that you gave it to me. Thank you.”

And then I wrap my arms around his neck and kiss him for all I’m worth. He’s smiling under my lips, and I pause to nip him.

“What could possibly be so funny?” I ask.

“You’re kissing me like you want to fuck me.”

“I do. I always do.”

“There are cameramen all over the place,” Adam notes.

“What?” I shriek.

“You’re obsessed with selfies. I figured you’d want pictures of this moment. I timed it so we’d have perfect lighting and memories captured forever.”

“How are you real?” I demand. “You spoil me so much, it’s unreal.”

“And I will never stop.”

Adam takes his phone out, presses a few buttons, and then turns the screen toward me. Ariel and Buster are waiting and I squeal with joy. My best friend is bouncing with excitement, and Buster is wearing a little red bowtie.

“Buster is practicing for the wedding!” Ariel shrieks. “Holy shit, girl, you are getting married! Married!”

“You told her?” I ask Adam before turning my attention back to Ariel. “And you knew this whole time and didn’t tell me?”

“Adam made me promise. And he’s killed people and shit.”

“How do you know I said yes?” I ask.

Ariel rolls her eyes. “Obvi.”

“I just wanted everyone you love to be part of this moment with us,” Adam says.

Hot tears fill my eyes, and I’m officially crying again.

“Buster and I hope you have the best time,” Ariel says. “Call us whenever you can, okay? And have fun celebrating tonight.”

Adam disconnects the line and pulls me up to my feet, dropping his hands to my ass and dipping his head to kiss my lips.

“I’ll wait until the camera crew leaves before I strip you down,” he murmurs.