Page 67 of Scent of Evil
She stared in shock, pretty much ignoring the diamond engagement ring to look into his earnest eyes. “Justin, are you sure about this?”
“Absolutely.” Stone crossed over to sit next to Justin, as if to make sure she knew they were a package deal. The two of them looking up at her expectantly made her smile.
“Yes, Justin.” Why was she hesitating? She loved this man who was honorable, sweet, and praised God every chance he had. “Yes,” she repeated. “I love you and would be honored to be your wife.”
Justin sprang up, caught her in his arms, and spun her in a circle before setting her back down. Then his gaze turned serious. “We can live in Cheyenne if that’s better for your job, Raine. I don’t mind. We can visit here when we have time. The good news is that our SAR missions take us across the state and sometimes into Montana and Idaho. Where we live won’t be a problem for my siblings.”
She looked into his eyes. “I’m not sure I want my job.” She braced herself for his ire. “I have some money saved, so it’s not like I plan to live off you, Justin. I’ll do my part, but I think I need to consider something different.”
He looked surprised. “Really?”
“Yes.” She waited a beat. “Does that make you mad?”
“Why would that make me mad?” Justin released her and reached for her left hand. He slid the engagement ring on her finger. “If you want the truth, I’m thrilled. Not that I would stop you from being a marshal if that’s what you really wanted.”
She was surprised. “Ah, okay. But don’t worry, like I said, I have some money saved up.”
“Raine, I don’t want your money. And we can live here for free.” He grinned, then added, “I suppose I should tell you that money isn’t a big deal for us. Our parents left a substantial trust after they died. We don’t use it much except for a modest salary and the general upkeep of the ranch.”
“A trust?” For some reason that worried her. “Wow, that’s great, Justin, and you don’t even have to ask. Of course, I’ll sign a prenup.”
“No, Raine. That’s not necessary.” He pulled her into his arms. “All I ask is that you love me.”
“I do.” Tears pricked her eyes. “I love you so much it scares me.”
“No need to be scared.” He grinned and kissed her. “I do think we should get married soon, though.” His eyes glittered with amusement. “We don’t have any time to waste if you want to have kids.”
She swatted him, despite knowing he was right. She was thirty-four, and to her surprise, her biological clock was ticking rather loudly. “Okay, a quick engagement it is.” She wrapped her arms around his neck. “Here’s to the next generation of Sullivans.”
“I can’t wait,” he whispered, and sealed the deal with a kiss.