Releasing her hands, Eli gestured to the blond guy. “This is my second in command, Sterling. He’s been asking for more control of the company for years. He’ll take over my day-to-day duties while I manage things from here. I’ll oversee the new project, and if it works well, perhaps I can try something similar somewhere else. But all my plans are dependent on you, my love.” He took a deep breath and looked straight into her eyes. “Will you have me?”

She couldn’t believe what he was saying. It was too good to be true. The sweetness of his gesture was more than she’d ever dreamed of, the love in his eyes was real, and the passion in his voice blew her away. He wanted to be with her even though she’d blown hot and cold and had taken far too long to make up her mind about him. He wanted her despite everything.

Eli choked out an awkward laugh. “Say something, Ri.”

“Are you serious?” she gasped, still struggling to comprehend the momentous news he’d delivered.

Eli stroked her cheek and tilted her chin up. “More than I’ve ever been in my life, sweetheart.”

“Yes, you silly man. A million times, yes!” She launched herself into his arms and wound her arms around his neck. “Stay with me,” she whispered. “Love me.”

Then she kissed him. He responded quickly, holding her against him and kissing her sweetly again and again, raining kisses on her lips, her neck, her shoulders. Finally, they broke apart.

“This makes you happy?” he asked, only a hint of doubt lingering in his voice.

“It makes me very happy,” she said, then kissed him again. “I thought I’d lost my chance with you. After all, you’re smart and sexy and perfect. I’m just me.”

He pulled back from her. “You’re good. Like no one I’ve ever known. Don’t ever doubt yourself.” He grinned. “By the way, I have more news.”

“More?” she asked breathlessly. How could there be more?

“Teri is going to live with me. With us, I hope. If that’s okay with you. My parents have agreed. They’re hoping I can turn her into a businesswoman.”

Aria’s mind whirled, trying to keep up with him. “Absolutely. I love Teri.”

“And?”

“You,” she said, kissing his cheek. “I love you, Elijah Lockwood.”

Eli’s eyes closed and he exhaled slowly, a slight curve to his lips. With a jolt of surprise, she realized he hadn’t been sure of her answer. He’d been nervous because he didn’t want to lose her any more than she wanted to lose him.

In the dusty construction site, Eli dropped to one knee and drew a box out of his pocket.

“Marry me,” he said, opening the box to reveal a gold ring with a dazzling ruby set between two diamonds.