“I’m feeling very emotional right now,” I admit, drawing back so I can look at him.
“I’ve wanted to tell you for a while.” He circles his arms around my back. “But I didn’t want to just throw it out there. I wanted the moment to be right.”
“I’ve known for months, but I didn’t want to say it and pressure you into saying it back.”
“You’re the first girl I’ve said those words to,” he admits, sending a thrill through me, “and I plan on you being the last.”
My heart is going crazy, and I’m so happy I cry. “Callan, stop.” Tears stream down my face. “You’re so romantic, and I’m completely and utterly madly in love with you. If you keep this up, I’ll be a sobbing mess getting off this ride.”
“You make me really happy, Astrid.” He kisses me softly. “I’m so glad we moved to Ryemont and I met you.” He presses kisses to my cheeks. “Open your present.”
I pop the lid, and fresh tears well in my eyes as I lift the Claddagh necklace and admire it up close. A delicate purple gemstone is centered in the middle of the silver Celtic design. “It’s an amethyst.”
Alarm flares in his eyes. “That is your birthstone, right?”
“Yes, yes. I’m just amazed all over again at how much thought you put into everything. I have the absolute best boyfriend in the entire world.”
“Better thanXaden?” He hisses the name as he plucks the necklace from my hands.
My mouth hangs open, and then I’m laughing because it’s just too funny.
“Not feeling reassured, babe.” He moves my ponytail aside to put the necklace on me.
I rub tears from my eyes when I finally manage to stop laughing. I claim a seat on his lap and wind my arms around his neck. “You’re better than every real-life and imaginary boyfriend out there.” I press my mouth to his ear. “And I can’t wait for you to prove it to me later.”
I stand in front of the mirror in the hotel bathroom, staring at my reflection, wondering if I’ll look different when I’m no longer a virgin. Like, will people be able to tell from the expression on my face or how I’m walking?
Stop being ridiculous, Astrid.
I swallow over the lump in my throat and tell myself to get a grip. Callan must think I’ve fallen down the drain by now. I have showered, shaved, and rubbed rose-scented lotion all over my body. My teeth are gleaming, my breath is minty fresh, and my face is freshly moisturized. A delicate flush crawls from my chestto my neck as I stare at myself, and two pink spots bloom like apples on my cheeks.
I’m ready, and I want this with Callan, so why am I cowering in the bathroom?
Today has been the best day of my life, and it’s not over yet.
Time to get over myself and stop procrastinating.
Callan will take care of me, and there’s nothing to be afraid of.
I take one last look at myself in the mirror, smoothing a hand down the blush-pink satin nightdress, wondering if maybe I should’ve worn the red lacy bra and underwear set Gwen bought me last year. She assumes I’m wearing it, but what she doesn’t know won’t hurt her. I feel pretty and sexy, and I would’ve only felt uncomfortable in the red.
Summoning courage, I tiptoe to the door and draw a brave breath before stepping out into the bedroom. Soft music plays in the background, instantly helping to relax me. Callan has dimmed the lights and lit a few candles around the room. Emotion builds behind my eyes when I spot the rose petals decorating the bed.
“Don’t worry.” He walks toward me in black pajama pants, carrying two glasses of champagne. “I didn’t ruin your bouquet. I ordered extra from the florist.”
“I don’t have words,” I whisper because I am virtually speechless.
“Is this special enough?” He hands me a flute, and I gratefully accept it.
“More than. You have excelled, Callan. Seems you’re an overachiever in all areas, not just soccer.”
“I would do anything for you, Astrid. Anything.” He clinks his glass against mine. “Dara bought this for your birthday before he left. I’ve been hiding it in my wardrobe so Ma wouldn’t find it. Thought it might help to relax you a little.”
“I’m that obvious?” I ask before taking a sip the same time he does. The bubbly liquid glides down my throat and settles in my stomach.
“I was about to call a search party to rescue you from the bathroom,” he jokes.
“I’m nervous.” I gulp back a bit more of my drink.
