Page 128 of Christmas at the Castle
“You, Dr. Kat Parsons, are the woman I love. The one who makes me smile and laugh and get annoyed when you challenge me to be better. And you do challenge me. Every single day. I don’t want that to change.”
“I won’t come between you and your mother. I know what it’s like not to have parents be a part of your life. I won’t let you hurt the way I have.”
He embraced her and brushed his lips against her hair.
She wanted to stiffen, but her body betrayed her and sank against him.
“I can’t change what happened with your parents. I wish I could, but I promise you won’t come between my mother and me.”
“I want to believe you.”
“Then do.” Gill raised her chin with his fingertip. “I spoke with her. Sophie was part of the conversation via long distance if you need confirmation. My mother may have antiquated ideas when it comes to love and marriage, but she’s not stupid. She has seen the error of her ways and has given us her blessing. I knew if I came here without that, I didn’t stand a chance of winning your heart.”
“But you always win.”
“Not with you, but this time, I hope I will because I can’t imagine my life without you. This week gave me a glimpse of that, and I don’t want to live that way ever again.”
The longing in his voice caressed her heart.
Love wasn’t perfect or easy. Finding a job in a foreign country wouldn’t be either. Add in his mother and his responsibilities and those would make things even harder.
But he loved her. That had to count for something. Okay,everything.
She gazed into his eyes. “I love you.”
His jaw relaxed. “I needed to hear you say those words.”
He kissed her on the lips. A kiss full of desire and hunger. One that hinted of their future together.
Kat leaned closer and soaked up the feel and taste of him. She loved this man who was more teddy bear than beast once she saw through his hard shell.
Outside the exam room, a countdown sounded. Then squeals and laughter.
Gill drew back. “What was that?”
“I think the clock just struck midnight.”
“Happy New Year, princess.”
Kat didn’t think it would take her long to get used to being called that. “Happy New Year, Your Serene Highness.”
He laughed. “I’m just here as a man with a dog.”
“Who lives in a castle and will someday rule over a country.” She winked. “Live with it.”
“As long as I’m living with you, I shall.” He brushed his lips across hers. “I know you can’t drop everything and leave your life here, so Max and I will stay in Cedar Village, and Mama can join us after the puppies are weaned, until you’re ready to go home.”
Home.Kat shivered with delight. She loved the sound of that.
“Max,” Gill called.
The dog trotted over and sat.
A red ribbon was attached to his collar. “What’s that?”
Gill untied the ribbon and removed something, but she couldn’t see what. He dropped to one knee. “You are the most caring, intelligent, beautiful woman I’ve ever met. You make me a better man and will make me a better king. I want to be your husband and wake up next to you each morning for the rest of our lives. Will you do me the honor of marrying me?”
She sucked in a breath and tried not to hyperventilate. Her hands wanted to flap like bird wings. “Yes, yes, I will marry you.”
