Master of the Inn(31)

“You want to – marry me?”

He took her hand and pressed it to his lips. “I picked out the ring, but I won’t have it until next week. I wanted to ask you properly over Christmas, but I couldn’t wait.”

“I don’t know what to say.”

“I’m hoping it’ll be a yes. I know I’m rushing you, but I can’t wait. I’ve fallen deeply, madly in love with you.”

“You – love me?” she squeaked through new tears.

“Yes.” He brushed his lips against hers. “You took me by surprise. When you showed up here that night, I thought you’d stay a day or two. I never expected to fall so fast and so hard.”

“Me either.” She kissed him. “I love you so much.” She stroked his cheek. “I have ever since that night when we made love on the couch.”

He smiled. “I felt it that night too, but I wasn’t sure what was happening. I’ve never been in love before.”

“I want to marry you. I’ve dreamed about running this inn with you since my first night here. I thought I was being crazy, but I came here for you. I know I did.”

“I’m glad you did. I needed you.”

“We needed each other.” She hugged him indulging in his strong hold.

“This is only the beginning.” He held her tighter. “We have the rest of our lives.”

“To make fantasies into realities.” Something drew her here that warm night in September and it was the same thing that had made her stay. A force she never fully understood until now. Him.

“At Pleasure Inn.”