Page 100 of The Renter

“I know,” I say, although I rarely see it from her. “With me, she’ll never have to worry about so much. She deserves the world, and I intend to give it to her.”

He sighs, the lines of worry on his face now deepening. “I don’t care about your money. I want to know that you will treat her right. She’s never been in a healthy relationship before. There was a …”

“Sorin,” I say, filling in the gap.

He nods. “We just want her to be happy, to be with someone who is good for her and good to her.”

“Always.”

“Don’t give her a reason to lean into that other part of herself.”

I look him directly in the eyes. “I will always be her biggest champion. Dani means everything to me.”

There’s a moment of silence as he absorbs my words. I hope I’ve conveyed the depth of my feelings for Dani and my intentions toward her.

Finally, he nods slowly. “Just … make sure you keep her happy.”

“I will,” I promise, feeling a sense of responsibility and honor in that promise. I wasn’t planning to have this be the conversation where I asked for her hand, but it happened, and Carl didn’t say no.

86

As I lean forward to blow out the candles on my birthday cake, the warmth and love surrounding me is almost uncomfortable. Everyone is so happy. Whatever Adam said to my dad outside has lightened the mood. There’s maybe even a hint of approval. It’s weird to feel so happy and light, especially here, in this house that holds so many different memories for me. This birthday is the best I’ve ever had.

As I enjoy the cake at the dining room table, I steal glances at Adam.This is happening.He’s meeting the parents. I have a boyfriend who’s meeting the parents. It’s so wild.

“I’m surprised to see you eat so much cake,” Mom says, squeezing Adam’s biceps. I shoot daggers at her with my eyes.

“What? He looks like the kind of guy that wouldn’t touch a carb.”

Adam laughs, unfazed. “It’s all about the eighty-twenty rule. Right now, it’s a splurge.”

Mom looks at my dad like he should be taking notes. I giggle, happy with the lightheartedness.

He’s blended into my family setting with an ease that surprises me. The conversation flows easily, with my parents sharing memories from my childhood. My dad plays old DVDsof some of my best motocross races, and Adam looks at me bug-eyed, not believing it. I feel so fucking happy. I can’t remember when I was this happy in this house.

87

“Remember when you walked in here in your black bikini?” I ask, struck by the sense of nostalgia while sitting on the cottage’s porch.

Dani playfully punches my arm.

“I’m so happy you did.” I smile. “We’ve been inseparable ever since,” I say, kissing the top of her head. “Dani.” I scoot back so we can have eye contact. “This summer with you has been unexpected and amazing. I didn’t anticipate finding someone. I wasn’t looking … and there you were, in my kitchen.”

She giggles. “The best summer.”

“I’ve always hoped for a family, a life partner.” I pause, swallowing the lump in my throat, trying to keep my emotions in check. “You’re everything I could ask for. I want you to know how serious I am about giving you the best life possible and supporting your passions.” I pause, my heart pounding in my chest. “Don’t say anything. I’m not looking for an answer right now. I want to declare that you’re the one for me. And as time goes on, I hope you’ll feel the same way.” Reaching into my pocket, I pull out the ring. It’s the one that caught her eye. “It’s only three carats,” I say, recalling the jeweler’s comment.

Dani’s eyes well up with tears.

“I saw how you looked at this ring, and I knew I had to get it for you. It’s not a proposal unless you want it to be, just a promise that I’m here for you, for whatever the future holds.”

Dani looks at the ring, then at me. I can see a mix of emotions playing across her face—surprise, joy, and maybe fear.

“Wear it on any finger you like. This isn’t a symbol of ownership. This ring is a symbol of my commitment to you.”

I take her hand gently. “I know it’s a big step. I want you to have a piece of my heart, to know how committed I am to you, to us. But we’ll do this at a pace you’re comfortable with. Whether you take this ring or not, my commitment remains the same.”

Dani takes a deep breath, her eyes searching mine. “Adam.” I can’t place her tone and hope she wants all of this too. “You want to marry me?”