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“I don’t need anything but you.” She kissed me again. “But okay, I want to see. Where is it?”

Laughing, I walked her over to the stuffed animal. “Chococat has it.” I reached for the shiny black box, turned to her, and opened it.

She gasped at the circular black opal with a gold band that I had customized for her. “Forrest, this is gorgeous.”

Islid it on her finger, and it fit perfectly.Kiera was going to be my wife, and I was a blessed man.

“It’s the most beautiful ring I’ve ever seen.” She placed her hand up in the air, admiring it. It suited her splendidly.

“As far as I know, there’s only one.”

“How do you know?” she asked.

“Because not everyone can afford a black opal. They’re worth more than diamonds. It all comes down to rarity and quality. And black opal is extremely rare.” I tipped up her chin. “Just like you.”

Moving her hand around, she admired the ring. The sunlight streaming down from the glass ceiling panel made the liquid fire in the gem appear brighter than usual. She made the ring more brilliant.

She smiled. “I really did get my Opals are Forever.”

“What are you talking about?”

She told me about the challenge the SSG had given her.

“You should have just told me. I would havemadeall your Super Spy Girl dreams come true. I would have said those three words sooner.”

“It wouldn’t have been as fun and would definitely be less meaningful. I only want to hear ‘I love you’ without provocation.” She smiled. “I’m going to call my mom and then my friends.”

I didn’t tell her I’d already asked Ms. Ford for permission to marry her daughter. I wasn’t a manused to asking for permission regarding anything, but I knew this was important to Kiera and her mom.

Kiera wrapped her arms around me. “But I want to celebrate with my fiancé first.”

Her hands slid down and cupped my ass.

“What do you have in mind?” My hands slid down to claim her ass.

Her eyes sparkled. “Since you have a bunch of herbs, I want to make you a meal using them. I appreciate everything you’ve done for me—because of me. I want to be the best wife to you.”

“You’re already the best.”

“I know.” She winked, giving me a mischievous smile. “Want to help me gather some basil, mint, and cilantro? I plan on making a delicious meal to eat off of you.”

I loved her heart, mind, and imagination.

“I’d be a fool to refuse such an enticing offer.”

We rounded the garden, admiring its beauty, and prepared for our flourishing future.

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