Wait No More

Part Sixteen

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden hue over the picturesque landscape of Asheville. The vibrant colors of the sky mirrored the excitement bubbling within Ethan as he prepared for a night he hoped would be unforgettable. It was their last night in the charming mountain town, and he wanted to make it special for Olivia.

After a day of exploring the local art galleries and enjoying the stunning views from the Blue Ridge Parkway, Ethan had been planning something unique for their evening. He had wanted to make the prom proposal memorable, and he was determined to sweep Olivia off her feet.

As the first stars began to twinkle in the deepening blue sky, Ethan led Olivia to a secluded spot near the edge of a serene lake. The water reflected the fading light, creating a shimmering canvas that felt almost magical. He had set up a cozy picnic blanket adorned with fairy lights, twinkling softly in the evening air, and a basket filled with her favorite snacks and drinks.

"Wow, Ethan, this is beautiful!" Olivia exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight as she took in the scene.

Ethan smiled, feeling a sense of pride and warmth at her reaction. "I wanted to create a special memory for us before we head back on center ," he said, gesturing for her to sit.

As they settled onto the blanket, he poured them each a glass of sparkling cider, raising his in a toast. "To our adventures in Asheville and to many more memories to come," he said, his heart racing with anticipation.

"To us!" Olivia replied, clinking her glass against his, a radiant smile lighting up her face.

They spent the next hour laughing, reminiscing about their time in Asheville, and sharing stories that deepened their connection. The air was filled with the sounds of nature, the occasional rustle of leaves, and the soft croaking of frogs nearby. It felt as if the world belonged only to them.

Ethan's heart raced as he prepared for the moment he had been dreaming about. He reached into the backpack he had brought along and pulled out a small, beautifully wrapped box. "Olivia," he said, trying to keep his voice steady, "I have something for you."

Her brow furrowed in curiosity as she took the box from him, her fingers brushing against his. "What is it?"

"Just open it," he urged, his excitement palpable.

With delicate fingers, Olivia unwrapped the box, revealing a silver bracelet adorned with tiny charms — each one representing a significant moment they had shared throughout their relationship. There was a small camera for their spontaneous photo shoots, a paint palette for their creative adventures, and a tiny mountain to symbolize their unforgettable trip to Asheville.

"Ethan, this is beautiful!" Olivia gasped, her eyes glistening with emotion as she gently picked up the bracelet, examining each charm closely. "You made this?"

"I found the charms and thought it would be a perfect way to capture our memories," he said, his heart swelling with affection. "But there's one more thing."

Olivia looked up, curiosity and excitement mingling in her gaze.

Taking a deep breath, Ethan reached into his pocket and pulled out a small piece of paper. "I know prom is coming up soon, and I couldn't imagine going with anyone else but you," he said, his voice steady despite the flutter of nerves in his stomach. "So, Olivia, will you go to prom with me?"

He unfolded the paper, revealing a hand-drawn illustration of a picturesque scene — a couple dancing under twinkling stars, with the words "Prom?" written in bold, colorful letters.

Olivia's eyes widened in surprise, and a smile broke across her face like the sun breaking through clouds after a storm. "Oh my gosh, Ethan! This is so sweet! Yes, of course, I'll go to prom with you!"