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“Like I was ripped apart then sewed back together, better than before,” Allison grinned.

That might have been the best description of giving birth that Brianna had ever heard. They visited for a few more moments before walking back out to the waiting room. Brynn and Lena had arrived. Brynn held more balloons in her hand than Brianna had ever seen. Taylor’s sister, Harper arrived withher wife Blakely. They each carried a gift as well. River and Brianna said goodbye to everyone.

As they were walking out, Brianna realized how perfect this moment was. The smile on River’s face was huge. Brianna pulled River out to the gardens in the back of the hospital. They found a bench and sat. Brianna struggled for a moment before finally pulling the box from her pants. She dropped down to one knee in front of River. Brianna watched as the realization of what was happening hit River.

River’s hand covered her mouth. Brianna felt hot tears threatening to fall from her eyes. She had to hurry.

“This is not at all what I had planned,” Brianna began.

“But I realized on our way out how perfect it was. Because this is sort of where everything started for us. After your accident I could no longer deny the feelings, I had for you. I had pushed them down and covered them with friendship. But I loved you. Even then I loved you. How perfect is it that we’re here for a happier occasion. A baby is a new beginning. And today I want us to start our new beginning. River, will you marry me?” Brianna held the ring out and waited.

River’s face broke into a wide smile. She nodded her head yes, too overcome to speak. Her words finally came in a stream, along with her tears.

“I said I would choose you every day. So yes, I want to marry you. I want to start a life with you, and a new beginning with you. You will forever be my yes.”

River pulled Brianna into a hug. It was so forceful, Brianna had to make sure she didn’t lose the ring. Brianna took River’s hand and slid the ring onto her finger. This was the happiest day of her life, and she knew that it would only get better from here.