“I love you too.” She barely got the words out before he captured her lips in a kiss that warmed her through. That caused her to tremble with joy. That made her forget they were in public.

Was this really happening? They’d talked in terms of forever, but they hadn’t talked rings or wedding ceremony. But ever since he’d returned, she knew he was hers forever.

A long moment later he drew away, wearing that sleepy look she loved so much. He would be hers, and she would be his—for as long as they both shall live.

“You really proposed to me,” she whispered in wonder as she drank him in.

“And you really said yes.”

She laughed. “I said yes!”

“Without so much as even looking at the ring.”

“The ring!” She laughed. “I got a little distracted.”

He set her on the ground and opened the blue velvet box.

She sucked in a breath. “Oh! It’s gorgeous.” The ring featured a round diamond center that twinkled in the evening light. A shimmering row of diamonds highlighted the open-twist shoulders.

“Are you sure? My feelings won’t be hurt if you want to pick out your own.”

“I feel like I already did.” She waggled her fingers. “Put it on, put it on.”

“Patience, woman.” He chuckled as he pulled it from its velvet nest and set down the case. He slid the ring easily into place—a perfect fit.

“I love it.” She admired the ring for several long seconds, turning it this way and that before peering up at Aiden. “I love you. I am so happy right now.”

His smile widened. “Me too, Jelly Bean.”

“When do you want to get married? And where?”

“You know, some people say their vows while they’re free falling . . .”

“Aiden Maddox.” She gave him a pointed look. “Don’t even.”

“On the other hand . . .” He pressed a kiss to her lips, making her go all soft and squishy. “A beach wedding is always nice too.”

Discussion Questions