He pressed his lips to hers in the softest of kisses before pulling back. “Marry me, Preslee.”

“No. Stop saying that.”

He lowered his forehead to hers and swallowed hard. “Look, I didn’t plan this. Hell, I didn’t even know I would see you today, much less that we would get back together. I don’t have a ring to offer you. I’m not down on one knee. And I’m certain your father is going to kill me for not asking him for your hand in marriage first. But I want this. I want you. This feels right. Just say yes.”

She blinked at him. “You’re serious?”

His intense eyes narrowed onto her. “Absolutely.”

“Adam, you don’t have to propose. I’ve already forgiven you.”

He lifted one dark brow. “Do you really think I’d play around about something like this?”

“No, but…”

“Preslee. Please say you’ll marry me.”

Tears filled her eyes. “Adam.”

“Look, I know this is happening fast, and you probably think I’m crazy by asking you to be my wife, but I don’t care. I’m laying it all on the line because I want you to know how serious I am about you. About us. Marry me.”

Her voice warbled. “No.”

His eyes widened slightly. “No?”

“Yes.”

“Okay, you’re confusing me. Is your answer yes or no?” he asked.

“The answer is no. I can’t marry you.”

He glanced over her face as if waiting on her to say, Psych! About ten seconds later, he realized she wasn’t kidding and the corners of his mouth drooped. “You’re serious? Your answer is no?”

Preslee shook her head. “I’m sorry, Adam. I’m not saying no to forever. I’m just saying no right now. I don’t think we’re ready for that kind of commitment.”

“What do I have to do to prove we are—get down on my knees and beg?”

“No.” She didn’t want him to beg. Nor did she want pretty words. She just wanted…him. “There’s no need. I just want to be certain about such a big decision.”

“I’m sure. I’ve never wanted anything more. You’re it for me.”

“I feel the same way.”

“Then why are you turning me down?”

“Because I would like to make a different proposal of sorts. One that I think better suits us right now.”

“Okay, I’m listening.”

“I think we should move in together.”

He grinned. “Hmm. Living in sin. Okay. While I’m not sure your dad is going to like that, I love where this is going so far.”

She smirked. “And I would like us to get a dog. I’ve been volunteering at the local shelter and there are so many that could use a good home. Then after some time, we’ll reconsider your proposal.”

He nodded. “Done.”