What Are The Chances

Chapter Seventeen

                                  

     Happy Christmas! We are all in London for Christmas with the Barnes. Everyone that was here last year, attended again this year, with the addition of my family. My parents and the Barnes seemed to be hitting it off. Thomas' mates were just as loud and amusing as ever, and my girls were doing a whole lot of flirting. The house was filled with so much laughter and love. Mrs. Barnes' decoration was so beautiful. From the lights outside to the lit up trees along the walkway. When you enter through the foyer, there are all these rare vintage santa claus statues displayed between sleighs and miniature christmas trees. Then as you walk into the living room you're greeted with a wonderful pine smell that seems to engulf the whole house. The warmth and the smells, draws you to this enormous scotch pine Christmas tree, that's breathtaking. The whole house was just magical. Mrs. Lila has definitely outdone herself this year. Happy Christmas, Remy said as he greeted Thomas and I. I hugged him and said "Merry Christmas to you too. How have you been? I've missed you." I said. "I'm pretty good, I've missed you too. You seem to hide away like Thomas when you work." Remy said. "I know, I'm trying to get better about that. " I added. "If you could excuse me Remy, I need to check on my girls." I said, as I walked to the other side of the living room. Thomas' eyes followed me and when I locked eyes with him, it was as if everyone in the room disappeared. I was quickly brought out of my trance when Thomas's brother Steven snapped his fingers in front of my face. "What are you daydreaming of sunshine?" Steven asked. "Uh, I don't think you would want to know." I said, as I raised an eyebrow and bit down on my bottom lip. "Wow, you two really can't be in a room together without wanting to jump on each other." Steven said. "Nope," I answered. He laughed and took me by the hand and said "You need to meet our Aunt Brie, she's a character. You will love her." He was right. I did love her. She was a spitfire, quick wit and full of energy. I simply adored her.

     Thomas kept glancing over at me so lovingly all throughout the night. He looked so handsome, but he always does. He kept telling me how beautiful I was, then he would place his hand on the center of my back. I would exhale every time he did it. It drove me crazy, but in a good way. I noticed my parents and Mrs. Lila watching us with so much joy in their eyes. I'm so happy to have everyone here with me. Christmas is my favorite time of the year and being away from my family would have been hard, so I am over the moon thankful that Thomas suggested that everyone come with me this year. I walked over to talk to my mom and Mrs. Lila and thank her for having my family and friends along with myself over for Christmas. While we were talking I noticed Thomas doing some hand gestures to Derek. Derek locked eyes with me and tried to play it off, but I knew something was up. A few minutes later (What are you doing the rest of your life.) a song that I love came on performed by Sting. I shared with Mrs. Lila that it's one of my favorite songs. Then I proceeded to ask her if she picked out the music for this evening. She smiled and said no dear, it was all Thomas. Then she told me to turn around. When I did, Thomas was standing in front of me with his hands out reaching for mine. I quickly glanced around the room and saw my girls all gasping, and I realized, this is it. He's going to propose. 

     My hands began to shake. I took a deep breath and released it. Then Thomas began: "You look ravishing tonight." He said. "So do you." I replied back. Thomas laughed and said thank you. "Natalie, it was a year ago today that I fell in love with you, and I have loved you every day since. With each passing day my feelings just intensified. Your passion for life inspires me. You make me try harder in everything I do. I want to be the best version of myself for you always. Thomas drops to one knee. My heart was beating so fast, I felt as if I was going to faint. He looked up at me with those eyes and I almost dropped to my knees just to be down there with him. Natalie, I will support you in everything you do. You will have my admiration and my heart until the day of my last breath." Thomas pulled out the ring and by this point I am full on crying. "Natalie, I hope that you will allow me to love you and laugh with you all the days of our lives. Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?" "Yes" I said, and he wiped away my tears and kissed me. Everyone was clapping and cheering. "I know you like simple things, so I did what I thought was simply beautiful." He said, as he placed the ring on my finger and added. "I hope you like it." The ring is a 2kt white gold French set halo diamond. "I love it and I love you." I said as everyone surrounded us.

     Who would have thought two strangers would meet by chance and connect on all levels. Two strangers, not looking but unexpectedly finding what they needed. Love happens and when it does you must be open to receive it and give it back boldly and with an open heart. See you soon.