Page 57 of Fighter's Best Friend

“I was nervous,” I admit, even though it isn’t very manly. “You’re this amazing, talented, beautiful surgeon, and I’m just a guy who can take a punch and keep on swinging.”

She shakes her head. “You’re so much more than that. You’re the man who’s made me happier than ever over the past three years. Of course I want to marry you.” Her lips curl up, and she presses a soft kiss to my forehead. “Now, let’s see this ring.”

I slide the ring from its resting place and onto her finger. It fits, because I learned from Jase’s example and asked Lena to figure out her size. It isn’t flashy or chunky, because if it was she wouldn’t be able to wear it at work. It’s a simple gold band inlaid with small, glittering diamonds.

“Do you like it?” I ask, suddenly afraid that opting for functionality may not have been the best idea.

“Are you kidding?” Her grin widens. “It’s absolutely perfect. Thank you. Actually,” something flickers in her expression, “I have my own news I wanted to share with you today.”

Instantly, my gaze darts to her stomach. It looks the same as usual, but I can tell from the excitement gleaming in her eyes that I’m going to like what she’s about to say.

“I did a test this morning to confirm, but I wanted to wait until the perfect moment to tell you… we’re having a baby, Gabe.”

Reaching over, I haul her into my arms and kiss her senseless. While we haven’t been actively trying to get pregnant, she stopped taking the pill a while ago because we’ve both talked about how much we want a family. Sydney, especially, wants to be a mother. She has so much love to give, and unlike with her mom, it isn’t conditional.

“That’s fucking amazing,” I tell her when I draw back. My hand goes to her belly and caresses it through her dress. It’s hard to believe that there’s a whole other person in there—one who’s half her and half me, the most pure expression of our love. “I can’t wait to meet the little guy.”

“Or girl.” Her lips quirk. “You’re going to be an amazing dad. Our child will be lucky to have you.”

My heart lifts. What did I do to deserve this wonderful woman?

“I love you,mi vida.”

“I love you, too,” she says, and then pushes me onto my back on the blanket and straddles me. “This calls for a celebration.”

Hell, yes.

Every day of the rest of my life will be a celebration with her by my side.

That’s why I’m going to keep her.

My lover, my best friend, my girl.

Forever.

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