Page 127 of The Gift

“I don’t want to waste time, Erica.”

Something in her chest squeezed.

“We’ve spent the last month together. Every morning. Nearly every meal. I like coming home and finding you there.” His eyes warmed. “And I like having you in my bed.”

A smile trembled on her lips. The simple honesty of it was completely Vince.

“I like you wrapped around me on my bike.”

Blinking away tears, she laughed softly.

“I like us.”

Her heart swelled, and for a moment, neither of them spoke.

“I don’t see much point in waiting.” He opened the box. The diamond inside glittered in the last remnants of daylight. “So, here’s the deal,” he said. “You keep rescuing people with your gift, and I’ll spend the rest of my life making sure you’re safe. Marry me, Erica.”

For a moment, she could only stare at him. Then laughter welled up along with the tears in her eyes. She wrapped her arms around his neck. “Yes. I’ll marry you.”

Relief and joy lit up his face. He slid the ring onto her finger then drew her into his arms and kissed her. By the time their lips parted, only streaks of red and gold remained in the sky.

Her hands slid up his chest, and she finally admired her ring. “It’s beautiful, and this spot… perfect. I’ll remember it always.” She smiled. “Even if you skipped the whole getting-down-on-one-knee part.”

He rolled his shoulder, wincing slightly. “Cut me some slack, darlin’. I’m not twenty-five anymore, and don’t bounce back as fast.”

Sobering instantly, she reached up and cupped his cheek. “I don’t need grand gestures. I need you healthy, safe, and happy by my side until you’re at least ninety-five. Expect Kevlar as a wedding present.”

He let out a husky laugh then turned his head and kissed her palm. “I’ll wear it,” he promised. “Because now I have even more to be careful for.”

Vince mounted up and kick-started the engine.

Erica climbed on behind him, buckling on her helmet. “Where to next?” she asked.

He pointed north. “Vancouver.”

She wrapped her arms around his waist and smiled against his shoulder. The motorcycle roared onto the highway, carrying them along the edge of the continent and into their happily ever after. She didn’t need her gift to know that much was certain.