Innocence and Interceptions

15 | A New Beginning

#### Xander's POV

After the season ended, I found myself back home, feeling a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration. The past year had been a whirlwind, but the sense of accomplishment was undeniable. Walking through the familiar streets, I felt a strange combination of nostalgia and anticipation.

I completely cut off my father when I signed the contract with FC Dallas. He was furious, but I didn’t care. I had the last laugh. It was liberating to focus on my career and my future without his toxic influence. My siblings were over the moon for me and my achievements, and we stayed in touch regularly. Their support meant the world to me.

But the highlight of my homecoming was seeing Bree. The distance between us had given me time to think clearly about our relationship. I couldn't imagine my life without her anymore. Every moment apart had made me realize just how much she meant to me. I knew I wanted to propose to her, to make her mine forever.

I sat down with Woody, my best friend and confidant, to share my thoughts. "Woody, I’ve been thinking a lot about Bree and me," I started, feeling a bit nervous.

Woody raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile on his face. "Yeah? What about?"

"I want to propose to her. I can’t stay away from her any longer. She’s everything to me," I confessed, my voice steady with determination.

Woody leaned back, nodding thoughtfully. "I had a feeling this was coming. You two are perfect for each other. How do you plan to do it?"

"I want it to be memorable and romantic. I want her to remember it forever," I said, my mind racing with ideas. "Can you and Mia help me plan it?"

"Of course, man. Mia will be thrilled to help," Woody said, clapping me on the shoulder. "Let's make this perfect for Bree."

With Woody and Mia's help, we started planning the proposal. We decided on a beautiful park where Bree and I had spent a lot of time together. It was the perfect spot, filled with memories and the serenity of nature. Mia suggested decorating the area with fairy lights and rose petals, creating a magical atmosphere.

The days leading up to the proposal were filled with excitement and a bit of nervousness. I wanted everything to be perfect for Bree. The night before the proposal, I couldn’t sleep. I kept imagining her reaction, hoping she would say yes.

#### Brielle's POV

A few days has passed since Xander's arrival. Xander seemed a bit distracted from that moment onwards, but I didn't think much of it. He asked me to meet him at the park later that evening, saying he had a surprise for me. I was curious and excited, wondering what he had planned.

When I arrived at the park, I was stunned. The area was decorated with fairy lights and rose petals, creating a magical atmosphere. My heart pounded as I looked around, searching for Xander.

"Xander? What's all this?" I called out, my voice trembling with emotion.

He appeared from behind a tree, looking more handsome than ever. "Bree," he said, walking towards me. "This past year has made me realize just how much I love you and how much I need you in my life."

Tears filled my eyes as I listened to him. "I love you too, Xander."

He took my hands in his, his eyes locking onto mine. "Bree, you are my everything. You’ve supported me through thick and thin, and I can't imagine my life without you."

With that, he dropped to one knee, pulling out a beautiful ring. "Brielle Williams, Will you marry me?" he popped the question.

My hands flew to my mouth in shock and joy. "Yes, Xander! Yes, I will!" I cried, tears streaming down my face.