“Oh, Raven…” she says on a heavy sigh.
Not wanting her focus on me, I quickly remind her, “You know it’s nothing serious. When I answered, I thought you might burst through the phone with excitement. What’s going on?”
“I’m engaged!” she screams so loud, I almost drop my phone.
“Ohmigod! I’m so excited for you!” I quickly amp up to her level of enthusiasm. “Congratulations!”
I knew this was coming but didn’t know when. Jax reached out a few weeks ago, while Sloane was distracted with work. He wished I could be there in person to pick out her ring, but since they’re touring the eastern seaboard, and I had finals, it just wasn’t possible. Thank God for modern technology. He knewSloane so well, my job was simple. We picked out a kickass ring, though I’m sure Sloane could care less in this moment. All that matters for her is being with Jax. The way this man loves my sister so completely makes my heart melt for her.
Before she can get off track again, I demand as only a sister can, “Give me all the details!”
“Oh, God… where do I begin?” Sloane practically sputters, which is hilarious because my sister isneverat a loss for words.
“Start with the fact that you freaking said yes!” Jax shouts beside her.
“I’ve already told her we’re engaged… that’s implied…”
Without being there, I know she’s swatting at Jax with one hell of an eye roll.
Through the phone, I hear a rustling sound, and I’d bet my last dollar he’s pulling her in for a kiss. When she remembers I’m on the other line, her tone sounds rather dreamy for my serious sister. “What was I saying?”
God, I’m dying. Only Jax can make my straight-laced, prim and proper twin lose all train of thought. This is priceless.
“First,” I chime in, “remind me where you are. I’ve lost all track of days with finals.”
She starts to talk… but I cut her off. “Wait, let’s switch to video. I’ve missed your face.”
“Just look in the mirror, goofball.”
Once we’ve connected, my heart swells. Her smiling face is radiant. Jax snuggles into her and between the two of them, their mood is infectious.
Not that I’d ever let Sloane know, but I’ve missed her like crazy since she’s been searching for talent across the country while touring with Jax’s band. I’m so happy that she and Jax are following their dreams, but it’s not the same as seeing her every day. Thankfully, she’s oblivious to my true feelings, and her focus stays on her.
In the most unlike Sloane fashion, she talks nearly ninety miles a minute. “We made it to New York City last night. Jax and his band performed at Terminal 5. Afterward, Jax asked to go for a walk. Since we’ve never been to New York, I wanted to see Times Square and the Empire State Building at night. Of course, being the amazing boyfriend he is…”
“Fiancé,” Jax interjects by pulling her in tight and kissing her neck.
“Ohhh… I like the sound of that,” Sloane coos.
Before they get out of hand, I tease, “I know howamazingJax is… Sloane, you’re killing me… tell me what happened!”
Sloane laughs as her eyes roll to the back of her head. “Geesh… have patience…”
“That’s usually my line,” I mutter on a laugh.
“Oh, how the roles have reversed,” Jax interjects as Sloane shakes her head with laughter.
“Anyway…” Sloane interrupts. “We were enjoying the view of Central Park from the observation deck at the Empire State Building… The view was incredible. You’ve got to see it for yourself.”
“Sloane…” I prompt impatiently, making Jax laugh again.
“Well, Jax was snuggling me from behind and suddenly, he disappeared. When I turned around, I couldn’t see him. Seriously, I almost panicked, but then I felt something brush my leg and looked down.”
I gasp, knowing what’s coming next.
Pointing a thumb in his direction, she continues. “There, this fool was on bended knee, reaching for my hand.”
Jax caresses Sloane’s cheek as he gazes lovingly at her and says, “I told her she may have discovered me as an artist, but when I found her, I quickly learned just how much I was missing in my life. She pushes me to be the best version of myself. She challenges me to break the glass ceiling I’d always held in placeand with her in my life, I know I can conquer anything that comes my way.”
