him in years.
“A guy can get used to this,” William said while lowering her to the floor.
“Come on,” she said, grabbing his hand and leading him to the bedroom.
They cuddled in in silence after they were done, both staring at the ceiling above
them. William felt the stress of his new responsibilities fade from his mind. The
smile on Emily’s face hadn’t faded.
William couldn't believe how happy and full of life she seemed. He thought of the
ring tucked into his sock drawer and his grandmother's final conversation. He
wondered if now would be a good time to propose or if he should wait until they
were dressed.
“That was good,” Emily told him. “We needed that.”
“We did,” William agreed.
“This has been fun,” Emily told him. “I enjoyed all of it.”
“I have too,” William responded.
“I'm glad,” Emily said. “You were there for me when I needed you.”
“There's nowhere else I would rather be,” William told her.
“I know,” she said, sitting up on the bed. “The last few years have been good.”
“They have been.”
“I know, we met at the right time, under the right circumstances,” Emily started.
“It was like the stars aligned for us.”
William smiled. He glanced at his dresser and felt the urge to grab the ring. It
was a good moment.
“I want to thank you for everything, William. The place to stay, being my summer
boyfriend all these years. I wouldn't be where I am without you.”