“For what?” she asked, sliding off the desk and grabbing her bag.
“For you to marry me.”
She blinked once. Then twice. “Right. That.”
The drive to Theo’s place was quiet, but not uncomfortable. The city blurred past the windows, steel and glass giving way to quieter streets and tree-lined neighborhoods. My grip on the steering wheel was tight, knuckles pale, while Evania leaned back in the passenger seat like she was on her way to brunch.
“You always this tense?” she asked, glancing at me.
“Only when my entire future is riding on the next hour,” I replied dryly.
She hummed. “You should try breathing.”
I shot her a look. She grinned.
Theo’s house came into view—a modern place tucked behind a tall iron gate, all clean lines and warm lighting. After entering the security code, I pulled into the driveway and cut the engine.
“This is your best friend?” she asked.
“Yeah, he's one of the few people who doesn’t work for me or want something from me,” I said. “He’s ordained. Got certified online to impress a woman.”
Her eyebrows shot up. “Of course he did.”
Theo opened the door before I even rang the bell, wearing sweats and an expression that shifted rapidly from surprise to suspicion.
“Cal?” he said. “Why do you look like you’re about to commit a felony?”
“Good to see you too,” I replied, stepping inside. “I need you to marry us.”
He stared at me. Then at Evania. Then back at me.
“I’m sorry,” he said slowly, “you want me to what?”
“Marry us,” I repeated. “Now. Preferably before my parents find a way to sabotage this.”
Theo laughed once, sharp and incredulous. “You show up unannounced, demand I officiate a wedding, and don’t think I’m going to ask questions?”
“I think you’re going to ask a lot of questions,” I said. “But I recommend doing it after you marry us.”
He turned to Evania, lowering his voice conspiratorially. “Blink twice if he kidnapped you.”
She laughed. Actually laughed. “He didn’t kidnap me. I promise.”
Theo crossed his arms. “That’s exactly what someone being held hostage would say.”
“I signed a contract,” she added. “Very willingly.”
Theo’s eyes widened. “There’s a contract?”
“Yes,” she said cheerfully. “He’s very thorough.”
I shot her a look. “You’re enjoying this.”
“A little,” she admitted.
Theo dragged a hand down his face. “Cal, you are insane.”
“Probably,” I agreed. “But this is happening.”
