“And it should be somewhere that makes Daddy happy.”
I tap my temple, pretending to think. “The National Gallery?”
“Yes!” she shrieks. “That’s perfect, Spence! Today?”
I look at my watch. “Do you think we could pull it off today?”
“Yes,” she says solemnly. “But I need something pretty to wear too.”
“Yes, you do.” I stand and take her hand. “Let’s go and get ready.”
Spence:Meet us atWhistlejacketat six.
Corey:Why?
Spence:Lexi wanted to see your favourite painting.
Corey:Okay. I’ll see you later. Love you, Daddy.
Spence:I love you too, sweet boy.
* * *
Lexi and I arrive at the National Gallery in plenty of time. I’m wearing my best suit, and she’s wearing a baby blue dress with a big white bow at the back. I even managed to brush her hair and put it up in high bunches. Emily would be proud of me. I pace nervously while we wait for Corey. Lexi sits on the seats Corey and I painted on several months ago, kicking her feet together.
“Why are you nervous?” she asks.
“I’m about to propose to your daddy.”
She leans back on her hands. “He’ll say yes.”
“You’re sure?”
“Yes. He loves you. You make him happy. Why would he say no?”
I shrug. I don’t have an answer to that, but it doesn’t quell the butterflies in my stomach or the tight sensation in my chest. I check my phone. There aren’t any messages from Corey, which means he’s not running late.
I put my phone into my pocket and look to the end of the gallery. The butterflies intensify as I see Corey walking towards us. He catches sight of me and falters, frowning, no doubt because I’m wearing a suit.
“Your daddy is here,” I tell Lexi.
She jumps up and comes to stand beside me, clutching my hand, a big grin on her face. Corey picks up the pace again.
“What’s going on?” he asks. “Why are you both all dressed up?”
Lexi squeaks but doesn’t say a word. I kneel down.
“Spence?” Corey asks, staring at me.
I clear my throat. “Corey, I love you and Lexi with all my heart. Will you marry me?”
When Corey continues to stare, Lexi bounces from foot to foot.
“Say yes, Daddy! Say yes!”
Corey shakes himself. “Yes, D—" He closes his eyes for a second and takes a breath. “Yes.”
I hadn’t realised that other visitors to the gallery had stopped to watch. They all begin to clap and cheer while a few take photos on their phones. I stand and scoop Corey into my arms, kissing him hard before I drag Lexi into our embrace.
