He and Sophie got to her door before she could gather her purse and push down the handle, Sophie barking excitedly. “What a fine way to end this day.”

Her heart kicked up. “It is.” She reached for the cooler on the backseat.

“Let me get that.”

She greeted Sophie, ruffing her ears and murmuring doggy greetings.

“Okay, back off, girl, she’s here to see me.” Sophie sat, her fluffy tail sweeping the concrete.

Rick took Roxie’s hand and with the other swung the cooler. “Did you see the general at the pond?”

“If you’re referring to the heron, yes.” She gripped the container with brownies.

“Did you eat supper?”

“Yep.” Not that she’d had much but it was enough.

Instead of walking around the house, he opened the front door and gestured her in. “I take it there is ice cream in the cooler?”

“How’d you guess?”

“What else would need a cooler?”

“Let me put this in the freezer, and since it’s breezy out here, how about lighting the fire pit?”

“Okay, I’ll do that.” He gave her a questioning look that she made sure she answered with an innocent smile.

She put both the champagne and the ice cream in the freezer and the brownies on the counter, then followed him outside, where Sophie greeted her again. Roxie stared out over the dancing lake. Bright sails were still billowing in the wind, with many of them on their way to the docks. Seagulls dipped and squawked, some settling on the ridge of his boathouse. Her hair fluffed in the wind and she wrapped her arms across her middle.

“Are you cold?” Standing behind her, he put both arms around her and nuzzled her neck.

“Just chilly. This view is so peaceful and lovely.”

“It is. I come out here to unwind after the crazy days and putz with the pots and planters. Always reminds me to breathe and let it all go.”

She let her head fall back against his chest and did as he suggested—took a deep breath and let it all out. Turning in his arms, she clasped her hands behind his neck. “I am a woman on a mission.”

“Oh, really?” He kissed her nose.

“Stop that or I can’t think clearly.”

“Okay. I take it thinking clearly is important.”

“It is. Number one.” She stared into his eyes. “I love you, Rich Owens, as much as I am able and plan on loving you more day by day. Number two, I think you mentioned marriage.”

“Yes, I distinctly remember that.”

“Would you like to ask me again?”

He nodded, his smile spreading. “Roxanne Jean Gilburn, will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”

“Yes, Richard Donald Owens…” She started to say something more but talking and kissing did not work together.

“You have just made me the happiest man alive.”

“Good. I’m glad to hear that. Oh, Rich, is this really happening?”

“I think so. You better pinch me to make sure I’m not dreaming.”