As I walked back into the restaurant, I tried my best to act normal, but it felt impossible. My smile gave me away, and I couldn't contain the joy that was radiating from within me. Max looked up from his seat and caught my eye, a knowing glint in his eye.
"Hey, Ryan, how did it go?" he asked, his voice casual, but his eyes sparkling with curiosity. He set his fork down on his plate and leaned back in his chair, his eyes fixed on mine.
I took a deep breath, trying to compose myself before launching into the story. "Max, it was amazing," I began, my voice barely above a whisper. I pulled out the chair across from him and sat down, my eyes locked on his. "Lydia made everything so easy for me. Before I could even get the chance to tell her how I felt, she kissed me!"
Max's eyes widened in surprise, and he let out a low whistle. "Whoa, that's amazing!" he exclaimed, his voice full of excitement. "I can't believe it! You're a lover boy now!" He chuckled and shook his head, his eyes teasing.
I laughed, feeling a flush rise to my cheeks. "Shut up, Max," I said, playfully rolling my eyes. "But seriously, it was like the whole world had come to a standstill. I couldn't believe it was happening." I shook my head, still trying to process the events of the past few minutes.
Max grinned, his eyes teasing. "I can't believe the change in you, Ryan. You're like a different person. I mean, ten years of being single, and now you're head over heels in love. It's like a dream come true!" He leaned forward, his elbows on the table, his eyes sparkling with excitement.
I chuckled, feeling a warmth spread through my chest. "I know, right? It's like I've been living in a dream world. But it feels so real, so right. I can't imagine my life without Lydia now." I shook my head, still trying to wrap my mind around the sudden turn of events.
Max nodded, his expression serious for a moment. "I'm really happy for you, Ryan. You deserve it. You've been through a lot, and it's time you found happiness again." He smiled, his eyes warm with friendship. "You know, I was starting to think you were never going to find someone. But Lydia is perfect for you. She's smart, funny, and beautiful. What more could you ask for?"
I smiled, feeling grateful for my brother's support. "Thanks, Max. That means a lot coming from you. You've been a rock for me through all this." I paused, taking a deep breath. "I don't know what I would do without you, man. You're the best friend a guy could ask for."
Max grinned, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Anytime, lover boy. Now let's celebrate with some drinks!" He raised his juice in a toast, his eyes sparkling with excitement.
I laughed, feeling a sense of joy and contentment wash over me. "Sounds like a plan to me!" I raised my energy drink, clinking it against Max's. "To love, and happiness, and new beginnings!"
Max chuckled, his eyes shining with amusement. "To love, and happiness, and new beginnings!" he echoed, taking a sip of his drink.
After the restaurant closed for the day, Max and I changed out of our uniforms and back into our casual clothes. We were both excited for the night's plans and didn't want to waste any time. As we walked out of the restaurant, Max turned to me with a mischievous grin.
"Hey, Ryan, are you ready for tonight?" he asked, his eyes shining with excitement. "We've got a lot to do before we head to Marie's place."
"I was born ready, Max," I replied, grinning back at him. "What's the plan again? You've been keeping it under wraps for weeks now."
Max chuckled, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Ah, my bro, the plan is to make this night one to remember. First, we're going to head to the fashion center and get me looking sharp. I want to make a statement when I propose to Marie."
I raised an eyebrow, impressed. "You're going all out, aren't you?"
Max nodded, his smile growing wider. "I want this night to be perfect. Marie deserves it. And then, we're going to pick up the Lamborghini I just bought. It's going to be a night to remember, Ryan."
I whistled, impressed. "You're really pulling out all the stops, Max. I can't wait to see how it all goes down."
We arrived at the fashion center, and Max was treated to a makeover. His hair was styled, his face was trimmed, and he was dressed in a sleek black suit that made him look like a million bucks.
"Wow, Max, you look like a supermodel," I said, impressed.
Max grinned, admiring himself in the mirror. "Thanks, Ryan. I feel like a million bucks. Now, let's get the car and make this night official."
Next, we headed to the car dealership, where Max picked up his brand new Lamborghini. The car was sleek, black, and shiny, and Max couldn't stop smiling as he got behind the wheel.
"This baby is going to make a statement," Max said, revving the engine. "I can't wait to see Marie's face when she sees it."
I laughed, shaking my head. "You're something else, Max. You're really going all out for this proposal."
Max chuckled, his eyes shining with excitement. "I want this night to be perfect, Ryan. I want Marie to know how much she means to me."
As we drove to Marie's place, Max's excitement grew. He was nervous but determined, and I could tell he was ready for whatever the night might bring.
"Hey, Ryan, wish me luck," Max said, his voice filled with anticipation.
"Luck, Max," I replied, grinning. "You're going to need it. But I have a feeling it's all going to work out in your favor."
Max smiled, his eyes shining with confidence. "I've got this, Ryan. Tonight's going to be a night to remember."