As Fate Would Have It | ✓

chapter forty-five

Song for the chapter: You and I, by One Direction

Ryker and I had stood awake for a bit, just talking. Ryker kept me caged against his body as he stroked my back softly, telling me about a guy he met named Uriah and how he'd love to meet me now that I'm back.

I didn't even get to tell him about Owen before I heard his sleepy breath. Ryker passed out fast, which made my heart sink. I knew he looked so tired and worn out, and I hate to think that I was the cause of it.

I press my head against his chest as he tightens his grip against my waist. I smile slightly, not being able to get it out of my head that we were gonna get married soon.

Ryker was going to be my husband. That was so strange.

I smile, closing my eyes. I'm glad that Ryker had met this Uriah fellow and Kyler to be here for him while I was gone. I hated hearing that he was broken without me, but I truly hope he understands that I needed to do this.

It was for us, and now look at us—engaged.

I couldn't stop the chuckle. If you would've told me last year that by this time, I'd be engaged to Ryker Brooks, I'd tell you that you'd need mental help. But this is where we are now, and I couldn't be happier.

This is all I ever wanted, him and I. Us.

When I finally fell asleep, it was the best nights rest I'd gotten in months. I'd never felt quite as safe and as peaceful as I do beside Ryker, or in his arms. It's like, subconsciously, I knew he'd always protect me and keep me safe.

It just took me this long to finally realize it.

When we wake up in the morning, the smile that's across our faces is bigger than I've ever seen. Ryker double checks, makes sure if this is what I want, to get married in a court house without friends or family.

"It's always been just us, Ryker." I shake my head. "I'm never going to change my mind about that."

And that's all it took for him to get out of the bed and start getting ready. I let him shower first as I made some breakfast. Ryker barely kept the fridge stocked up, but I was able to make due with some bacon, hash browns I made from potatoes and toast.

He came out with his hair damp, a very fancy white button down and black slacks. I smile up at him as he leans down and kisses my lips, which lingers a moment too long.

I tell him to eat while I shower and get ready. It didn't take me long to pull up my hair and wash my body. When I stepped out, I put on a basic black bra and matching underwear and looked in the mirror. I turn my body, looking at the white marks that's carved on my body.

But it didn't bother me like it used to. I accept it, because it's a part of me, it makes me who I am.

I grab a white v-neck shirt that has three buttons and cute black designs on the sleeves, light blue skinny jeans and white flats. I let my hair fall down around me and brush through it before I apply some mascara, blush and chapstick.

I join Ryker and he just stares at me, which makes me raise a brow.

"You just never fail to take my breath away."

I blush, shaking my head. "Stop."

He smiles, us finishing our breakfast in silence. When we're done, I take our dishes to the sink. I'm in the middle of washing them when I feel Ryker come up behind me, pressing his chest against my back. I almost let the plate slip through my fingers.

"I can't believe you're about to be my wife."

His voice was low as he pressed a kiss to my neck. I shiver involuntarily.