Page 89 of Hard to Break
“Because winning a championship is hard but running it back is harder. To the Kodiaks family.”
We all drink.
As I move around the kitchen, helping Jay with the last-minute details, I feel Miles's presence beside me. His hand finds mine beneath the table, and he leans in close.
“Can I steal you away for a moment?” he whispers, his breath warm against my ear.
Curiosity piqued, I nod and allow him to lead me into the hallway.
Miles takes a deep breath, emotion rolling off him in waves. “From the moment I met you, I knew my life would never be the same. You've been my rock, my guiding light through the darkest of times. Your strength, your compassion, your unwavering belief in me… it's everything.”
Tears spring to my eyes as I’m overwhelmed by the depth of his words. My hand tightens around his, anchoring myself in this moment.
“I can't imagine my life without you,” Miles continues, and suddenly he's dropping to one knee. My heart leaps into my throat. “You make me want to be better, even when things are hard. And I want to spend the rest of my days proving myself worthy of your love.” With trembling hands, he pulls out a small velvet box and opens it, revealing a stunning diamond ring. “Brooke Ellis, will you marry me?”
For a moment, I'm frozen, overcome with emotion. Through my tears, I find my voice. “Yes,” I whisper, nodding emphatically. “Yes, I will.”
As he slips the ring onto my finger, a sense of rightness washes over me. This is where I belong—by Miles's side, ready to face whatever life throws our way.
Hand in hand, we return to the dining room, our faces glowing with joy. My family and our friends erupt in cheers and congratulations when they notice the ring. Miles pulls me close, and I melt into his embrace.
“I love you,” he murmurs, pressing a soft kiss to my temple. “I want to do everything with you—in public and in private. I booked us an island trip where we can go surfing and swim with dolphins and do all the things we talked about.”
My chest squeezes, but it’s the best feeling in the world.
“I love you too,” I reply, my eyes shining with the promise of our future together.
As the celebration swirls around us, I know that this is just the beginning. A new chapter in our story, one filled with love, laughter, and the unshakable bond we've forged through adversity.
Together, we're ready for anything.