Page 63 of Hold Me

“If they find out the truth about me...” His desperate eyes meet mine.

“It doesn’t matter.”

“But...”

“Marry me,” I say.

“What?” He’s gaping at me like a fish.

“Marry me,” I repeat, a smile curving my lips.

“Why would you want...? You know what I was and what happened... I’m damaged goods. And your mother hates me.”

“Don’t say that, because it’s not true.” I take his hand and nuzzle my cheek against it. “You’re a wonderful person. So strong and caring. You’re far better than most people. You’re the man I fell in love with, my friend, my lover, my soulmate, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. My mom will come around once she realizes how happy I am.” I blink back the tears pooling in my eyes. “So what do you say? Will you be my husband?”

He’s quiet for a moment, then his lips spread into a smile. “Yes.”

I fling myself into his arms, then grab his face and kiss him until we’re both breathless and dizzy.

“Can I take your last name?” he suddenly asks, his face completely serious, which makes me grin.

“Sure.” I pull him in for a long kiss.