Going Full Tilt (Carter Baizen)

Fourteen - The Decision

Elizabeth Westfield, you have been my beacon for the last two years. You are the most amazing girl I have ever known and I want to see if life will be like with you and I at the helm. He pulled out a velvet box and opened it to show a giant diamond ring for her. The van der Bilt family ring.

Will you marry me?

Ellie stood stunned in the middle of the room. "Nate..."

"Please Ellie? I love you so much and I know, I know we had it rough the last few months, but I can't see a future without you." Nate pleaded with his eyes.

She closed her eyes.

Nate or Carter?

Safety or Adventure?

Security or Love?

"I need time."

"What?" Nate stood up.

"I need time to think about this. I'm only 18, Nate and I need time. I need to talk to my family." Ellie looked into his eyes and he could see the pain in them. He was sure that she was going to say yes.

Nate took her hands. "I have an opportunity in LA for school and I want you to come with me. I thought if we went out there engaged it would be easier."

"When did you find out about this?"

"Last week. I didn't know how to tell you. I don't want to leave you behind. Come with me please?"

Ellie pulled away. "I have to think about this. When do you leave?"

"Tomorrow. Please Ellie, I love you, come with me?"

"I... I have to go. I just... just give me until the morning, ok?"

Nate looked resigned. "My flight leaves at 10 AM tomorrow. I hope I will see you there." He kissed her cheek. "I really do love you."

Ellie turned and walked out of the restaurant. She started to walk towards her building when she pulled out her phone.

E: You were right. He did propose.
C: Did you say yes
E: No, I said I needed to think about it
C: Where are you?
E: Headed to my father's. I just need to clear my head
C: Please Elizabeth, run away with me.
E: its not that easy
C: It can be. Don't choose him
C: I'm here if you want to talk.
C: I love you
E: Thank you Carter

Ellie walked up to her parents' penthouse and let herself in. "Daddy? Are you here?"

"Hey baby," Christian walked up to his daughter and kissed her head. "You look nice. Are you ok?"

"No." Ellie moved to the living room and sat. Christian sat next to her and she leaned her head on him.

"Princess, what's wrong?"

"How did you know Mama was the one?"

Christian smiled. "The first time she told me to screw myself." He chuckled. "She was so fiery and strong. I knew she would be able to put up with me and my shit."

"What if you had a choice and one is someone you've know for a long time and the other is new but exciting?"

"Depends on how they love you. If they love you for you and not who you are out to the world, then they deserve your love. If they love you for what you could bring them, I say let them go."

"So, would it be ok if I choose someone who I think is a good man, instead of someone everyone thinks is the right for me?"

"Why wouldn't it be ok? Sweetheart, you need to do what you feel is right in your heart. If this guy is honest and wants you, the sweet, honest, loving you that I know, then he is worthy of your love." He held his daughter closer. "You couldn't disappoint me."