The Harsh Reality Of Life

Eventful Ways

'Our love was made for movie screens...'

When it came to the future, Nick was always sure on what he wanted. He needed Jessica in his life. She was the one for him and everyone knew that. It was pretty much simple; the jock and the 'it girl'. It wasn't easy for Nick though, he had to fight for her. After being in a strong/healthy relationship for four years, he realised it was time to pop the question.

He chose the ring a month before just to prepare himself. He'd gone with his brother to pick it out. His brother thought that his proposal may be a bit cliché, but he thought it was perfect. So Nick purchased it, and he'd been carrying around the black, velvet box for weeks. Tonight just felt right, he didn't know why but it was the right moment.

"I'm doing it tonight, man."

Liam stared at his friend over the rim of the glass he was holding. "Doing what?"

"Proposing to Jessica."

Liam almost choked on hearing his words. "Tonight, like here?"

Nick shifted uncomfortably. "Yeah, should I not? I'm just so nervous; I just want to ask her before I loose the nerve again."

"It'll be great. So, are you doing it privately or...?"

"No. I'm gonna ask her at the dinner table tonight, in front of all of you guys." He smiled. "Well...technically I'm going to do it a little differently.

The boys both glanced at Jessica and Maddie who were setting up the table while Chloe cooked for the night.

"Dinner's ready!" Lea shouted.

---LINE BREAK---

The nights course was 'Baked Teriyaki Chicken' with many side dishes. There was no doubt that Chloe was the best at cooking, with Jessica trailing behind her. The group sat at the dining table, lingering on their desserts.

Liam stormed into the dining room/kitchen. "It's done." Liam whispered as he walked past Nick.

Nick turned fast, facing Jessica. "Jessica, go to the balcony. I need to show you something. All of you girls should go too." He ran a hand through his hair and ran out to the huge cabin garden.

He stood there, looking up at the balcony, waiting for Jessica. Slowly taking out the black velvet box, he sighed nervously knowing this was it.

Jessica glanced down from the balcony at lost for words. Tears formed in her eyes as she looked down at the huge message that was lit. Hundreds of what seemed like candles, were placed on the ground that spelled out, 'Will you marry me?'

"Jess!" Nick shouted from below. By now, it seemed like Lea was already planning the wedding. "Jessica...I know you're the only one I want to share the rest of my life with."

"Cheesy." Tyler smirked at his friends' act. He always knew that Nick was a hopeless romantic.

"Life offers many challenges. I know that I can meet them if you're willing to face them with me. When I met you, I knew I'd met my match. It was only a matter of time until we arrived at this moment. How it turns out, is all in your hands. But I will promise you, no one will work hard to make you happy or cherish you more than me."

He finally knelt down, on one knee, and opened the box to reveal the ring. "Jessica Evans, will you marry me?"

"This.is.so.cute." Chloe whispered in Maddie's ear.

"Say yes you dummy." Lea shouted. Nick waited in anticipation, but Jessica stood still frozen on the balcony.

"Say yes, Jessica. Come on, just say it." Nick straightened up a little.