Page 129 of Yours, Finally

Years I waited and time stood still when I met you again, anew

That I could be so lucky turned history on its feet

I'm the priest holding the truth of possibility

A sanctuary made of the love I have for you

And the love you feel for me, too

I hadn't been sure if Jake would choose a song about me to sing to our family and friends. Hearing words of love that lasts and feels mystical, it's so special… My throat hurt, grateful tears building behind my eyes.

Mistakes had been made. Months where we postponed the inevitable. Yet a world where Jake and I didn't end up together and in love seemed impossible. With his song, he told everyone he felt that way, too.

In the open, he told our family that he would love me forever.

"I'm so happy for you," Mom whispered again.

I smiled at her, tears in my eyes. Jake's music had a way of making my feelings come to the surface. Without even a hint of embarrassment, I allowed them to show through, too. If Jake could, I could, too.

Scattered bones on sacred ground

They tell me not to wait, time is not our debt

If ancient rock has built our shrine

A crystal tribute should belong to you and I

The music transitioned; it quieted. He played just a few notes with his right hand. The melody was airy, hopeful, and it fell on me like dew on a bright morning.

His left hand searched for something in his pocket. I frowned, momentarily distracted. He put a small velvet box on the top lid, and slid it to a corner where everyone could see.

I gasped.

Promise me forever, my love

Take this gemstone, if you will

Speak your heart, my life, yours

If you'll have me, I'll hold you still

A ring with your name my finest vestment

If you will

"Holy fuck," someone muttered nearby.

The sweet air I breathed until that moment disappeared. His words became a warm anointment, bathing my shoulders and dripping down my ribcage. The moment turned bright and intense, just as the music reached its tail end. The last notes were welcome, as I processed the true meaning of what had just happened, and my brain put two-and-two together.

Silence filled the room. Jake gazed down at the piano, his shoulders lifting in a deep breath.

He turned and found my eyes. "Violeta—"

"Yes!" I exclaimed.

His face pulled in a half smile. "Let me ask you first, please. I agonized over doing it this way, in front of everyone—"

"You asked— with the song." I stood, a hand on my chest. "I said yes."