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Elijah grinned mischievously. “Emily told me you asked her sister out on a date. How did that go?” he asked.
Chandler tossed the now empty bottle into the bin before he faced his brother again, “What the hell do you think? And I’m not talking to you about it.”
Elijah hooted. “Oh man, she already did a number on you, didn’t she?”
Chandler snarled and pointed a finger at him. “Didn’t I just say that I didn’t want to talk about it?”
“Tough shit, Bro.” Elijah replied and held up his hands. “I don’t see anyone else lining up to help you with your problems.”.
“I don’t have any problems, except for my busy body brother not knowing when the hell to shut the fuck up,” he dabbed his face with a towel, then tossed it on his shoulder. Facing Elijah again, he said, “What else did Emily tell you?”
Elijah burst into laughter, “I thought you didn’t want to talk about it. I knew it! You’re indeed smitten with Emily’s twin. Well, good luck to you…. Emily is going to fry your ass,”
Chandler rolled his eyes, “Just answer the damn question. Did she say anything about… Elena… I mean… The date?”
“No she didn’t. All she told me was that you guys went out. What exactly happened between you guys,”
“I kissed someone else,”
Elijah’s eyes widened, “You did what?”
“Stop yelling, okay. I know I’m the worst human on earth… You don’t have to remind me,” he sighed, “She kissed me actually, but it doesn’t matter because Elena saw us and clearly she didn’t take it well. Trust me, it was the worst date ever in the history of dates so if she doesn’t want to talk to me anymore, I can’t blame her,”
Elijah nodded, “Well, have you reached out to her”
“No,”
There was a pause, “You know you’re just making her angrier if you don’t call, right?” Elijah asked while Chandler stared blankly at him, “Wow, it’s obvious that you haven’t been in a serious relationship for a long time… It’s like you know nothing about women. Also, the angrier she gets, the higher the chances of her sister killing you and I know Emily… She will.”
Chandler narrowed his eyes at him, “What? Now you’re going to teach me about women? What makes you think you’re qualified?”
Elijah scratched his neck and leaned closer with a smile on his face, “Well, brother, I know this is not really the best time to bring it up, but as someone who is getting married soon, I think I’m pretty qualified,”
Chandler frowned, confused at first, then understanding lit up in his eyes, “Seriously?” he asked.
Elijah nodded, pride and happiness written all over his face, “Seriously…. I’m going to ask Lexi to marry me,”
Surprise and joy spread across Chandler’s face, a silent understanding blossoming between them. “Wow, Elijah, that’s huge! I’m happy for you, man.” He clapped a hand onto his brother’s shoulder, offering a reassuring squeeze.
Elijah’s grin widened, relief and elation evident in his eyes. “I’ve already got the ring. I’m planning to pop the question tomorrow.”
Chandler chuckled, feeling the rush of brotherly pride. “That’s incredible! She’s going to say yes, no doubt about it.”
A blend of nervous energy and eagerness danced in Elijah’s movements. “I hope so. I just… I can’t wait to start this new chapter with her.”
A surge of camaraderie passed between them, their bond stronger than ever in this moment of shared anticipation. Chandler pulled Elijah into a brief but firm hug, expressing his support wordlessly. Chandler’s voice held a note of assurance. “You’ve got this, brother. Tomorrow’s going to be unforgettable. Lexi loves you… I know that for sure, and I know that the both of you are going to be very happy together,”
Later that afternoon after Elijah had gone, Chandler drove back to his home and wondered what it’d be like to have a family. To drive home knowing that he had someone…A lovely woman, And maybe kids waiting for him. People he loved and who loved him back. It’d be amazing to have that no doubt, but how could he have that when he couldn’t go on a date with a woman without screwing things up.
———–
In the heart of Lexi’s chic apartment, soft golden light cascaded through sheer curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. The faint aroma of scented candles mingled with freshly baked cookies, creating an atmosphere that felt like a cozy haven.
Lexi, Elena, Emily, Beth and Charlotte sat in the living room, smiling and laughing as they sipped wine and discussed different topics. The chatter among the friends danced like musical notes, filling the air with anecdotes and laughter. Lexi, fidgeting with excitement, couldn’t contain the news any longer. With a radiant smile, she interrupted the conversation, “Okay guys, The truth is that I didn’t just ask you to come over for drinks. I have something absolutely amazing to share with you!”Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive © material.
All eyes turned to Lexi, curiosity sparking in their gazes. Lexi’s fingers trembled with anticipation as she pulled up the sleeves of the sweater she was wearing and held her hand out to them. On her finger was a shimmering ring, and she grinned, presenting it a cherished treasure. The diamond sparkled, catching the light in a breathtaking display of elegance.
Gasps and delighted squeals filled the room as the ring caught the light, reflecting its dazzling brilliance. Beth clasped her hands to her chest, exclaiming, “Oh my goodness, Lexi! It’s stunning!”
Charlotte leaned in closer, admiring the intricate design while Elena gushed, “Congratulations, Lexi! I’m so happy for you!”
Emily, with tears welling up in her eyes, wrapped Lexi in a tight hug, beaming with joy. “I’m beyond thrilled for you and Elijah, Lexi. You’re going to be the most beautiful bride,” she exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine happiness.
The room buzzed with chatter as the friends surrounded Lexi, each expressing their heartfelt congratulations. Glasses of sparkling cider were raised in a toast, the clinking sound filled the air, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Lexi’s life and laughter echoed through the apartment, intertwining with the sweet melodies of their friendship, creating a moment so rich and vibrant that time seemed to stand still…
At least it did for a while, until Charlotte said; “You’re so lucky Lexi. You got yourself a good man…. Unlike me… I cannot remember the last time I went out with a man and actually liked him,”