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The plastic bags cut into Jon’s hands. He smiled when the door opened. “Thanks for letting me crash here tonight, Gus.”

Gus grinned and motioned Jon through the door. “It’s no problem. I’m always glad to have the company. How’d Levi take it when you told him you wouldn’t be home until tomorrow?”

“He’s not happy about it, but he understands. It’d be dumb to make the trip twice if you’re willing to let me stay here.”

Gus raised an eyebrow and nodded at the bags. “What’s all this?”

“Well, I kinda stopped at the store after I talked to you. I hadn’t been planning on spending the night in Galveston, so I picked up some clean clothes to wear tomorrow. I was on the phone with Levi while I was shopping, so I may have gone a little overboard.”

Gus laughed. “It looks like it. There’s a lot more than just multiple changes of clothes here too. What’s going on?”

Jon felt the blood rush to his face and looked down. He chewed on his upper lip.

“Jon? You know you can’t get shit past me. Is this what I think it is?”

“I dunno. When I was in the hospital, I thought you figured out that I was thinking about proposing to Levi. I know I want to spend the rest of my life with him. He’s my soulmate. Something about us just fits so perfectly.”

Gus smiled. “I thought that was the case, but I didn’t want to come right out and say it… especially since he tried his damndest to not leave your room.”

“That’s why this couldn’t have happened at a better time. I know he asked you to let us borrow this place next weekend. The forecast says it’s supposed to be beautiful. I want to do it then. Catch him by surprise. Ya know?”

Gus smiled. “I think that would be perfect, kid. So you got a few supplies for your surprise to stash here. Am I right?”

Jon grinned. “Yep. I’m hoping to walk up and down the beach a little to think about the perfect placement and way to do it.”

Gus shook his head. “You’re overthinking this…” He looked as if he was going to say more, but stopped.

“Are you ok Gus? What’s wrong?”

Gus laughed. “I’m fine. Just trying to remember if I still have a suit that would be appropriate for a wedding.”

Jon’s eyes widened. “Honestly, I’ve not really thought about the logistics past this.” He pulled a small box from his pocket. “I don’t think Levi’s the type to snoop around, but I’m not the best at hiding things, so I didn’t want to risk him accidentally finding it if he was looking for something.” He opened the box, revealing a large antique ring. The top was a square field of sapphire with a golden triquetra nestled amongst the stones.

Gus gave a slight smile and nodded. “You did good, kid. He’ll love it.”

“I hope so. I’m trying not to think about it too much.”

“Why is that?”

“The more I think about it, the more stressed and scared I get.”

“Why scared?”

“What if he says ‘no’?”

Gus shook his head. “I’ve known Levi a long time. I don’t think you have to worry about that. He adores you.”

Jon smiled. “You really think so? I’ve always been worried he’ll find someone better and let me go.”

Gus stared at him blankly. “Are you serious?”

“Yes.”

Gus sighed. “Jon. Stop it. You are so much more than you think you are. I love you guys like you’re my own sons, but I am so sick of you both selling yourselves short. If you love Levi, that’s all that matters.”

Jon smiled. “I’ve missed your words of wisdom.”

Gus grinned, shaking his head. “Pizza ok for supper? If you set that stuff down, you could probably get your walk in before it gets here. You might even have a little time in the hot tub after we eat if you get started now.”

“That sounds like a plan, Gus. I’m going to change right quick. What are your thoughts about the location?”

“I have no clue what you’re envisioning. You’ll just have to see what works for you. Personally, I think Levi would be fine over there on the couch… But if you want to put in the effort, who am I to rain on your parade?”

Jon rushed to the guestroom and changed into a new pair of swim trunks. He made his way out to the beach. He didn’t make it far. The moment his feet hit the sand, he looked out over the water. The evening sun was at his back. He cast a long shadow toward the water’s edge and studied the angle. Entranced by the crashing waves, he framed the image in his mind. He wanted the framing to be perfect. The scene was right. Gus was right, too. Levi wasn’t one to stand on the ceremony of a proposal.

His shadow grew longer with each passing moment. He was unsure of how much time had passed when a hand squeezed his shoulder.

“Betty loved the sunrise here. She said it was a beautiful view. I never got to see it with her, though. I kept waiting, wanting to sleep in. Then it was too late. Maybe that’s why I’m always nagging you boys about not always waiting for the perfect moment.”

Jon smiled.