"Enzo," I say again. "You can't do this. I know this place is booked out months ahead at the least."
He sips his whiskey. "Yeah, well, don't underestimate me and the Syndicate. And you'd be shocked to know just how much clout my last name and my Uncle Gino's name carry."
I just stare at him.
"We helped Henri last year, and so now he's helping me. Mind you, he's charging me a fucking fortune for this. To let me have my moment."
"You can have it."
Everything on the menu is delicious, and the degustation style of tastings is to die for.
I love how I don't have to say no to booze since I'm not offered any, and I don't need to reject something because it's got the wrong cheese in it or is undercooked for me at this stage of my pregnancy.
Henri has taken care of everything and makes the crafted menu more special by modifying it to my needs.
When the dessert comes, we eat the delicate ginger and apple custard tarts that are made to look like seashells until you slide your fork into them.
Enzo finally leans back and studies me.
I smile. "What? Do I have food on my face?"
"No. You're fucking gorgeous, Lola. I just..." He shifts in his seat. "I wanted to do something special for you. We've been through a lot in the short time we've been together. And we've got Squish, who's going to make a break for it one of these days. And then we'll be three. So, I wanted to make some memories. You and me memories."
My heart leaps. "Enzo, that's...sweet..."
He winces, but he's smiling. "Sexy, please."
"I'm touched, really." I look around. "And this is the perfect end to a perfect weekend. In fact, I wish we could stay longer."
"You're the one wanting to be CEO and crack your whip."
"I want the company to thrive."
"Well, since I'm still boss, I say we can stay a few extra nights. To celebrate."
I laugh. "Celebrate what?"
He doesn't laugh with me. "I love you, Lola. And I probably always have, ever since you were a kid. I protected you then because it meant so much...youmeant so much. And when Dad forbade me to have anything to do with you, I helped in hidden ways. And if any of that hurt you, I'm sorry. But just know it always came from a place of love. And now? I'm so fucking in love with you I can't see straight. So, will you celebrate?"
Enzo stands, pushing back his chair, and then he sinks to the floor on one knee.
My heart pounds as blood rushes hot in my veins.
Then he pulls a small black box from his pocket.
Like a jewelry box.
My mouth goes dry.
Is that...?
"Enzo, is that what I think it is?"
He grins. "You don't seem the type for tiny ponies, so yeah. I'm thinking it is."
He opens the box, revealing a gorgeous oval diamond set on a white gold band.
"Oh my God. Yes."
