ZOE’S POV
I stood frozen on the sidewalk.
I had no idea what I expected Austin to say after today—the warm smiles we shared during Jamie’s school event, the comfort of his presence, the way he looked at me like something had clicked into place. But marriage? The word felt louder than the school bell.
I looked at him in shock.
“We should get married.”
The words created an awkward silence between us. My heart started racing as I studied his face for any sign he was joking. But he wasn’t. He looked at me with complete seriousness, as if he’d been thinking about this for a long time.
I forced a breath. “Austin… no.”
His expression faltered, just slightly. “Zoe, listen—”
“No,” I repeated, softer but firmer this time. “I’m not doing this. I can’t marry you out of convenience.”
His bro
