Page 53 of The Cowboy's Justice

“Nope, not ever.”

When they reached the house and pulled off their heavy coats, she offered to make them hot chocolate.

“Sure, that sounds great, but there’s something I need to talk to you about first,” he said, softening his voice. “Let’s go into the lounge and warm up by the fire.”

Curious, she followed him into the living room and settled on the couch while he threw another log into the flames. But when he sat next to her, a frown crossed his brow

“Devlin? What’s wrong? You look worried.”

“I am, well, not really worried, I’m just…”

“Okay, now you’re scaring me. What’s up?”

“Uh…hold on,” he muttered, rising to his feet.

With her pulse ticking up she watched him walk across to the bookshelf, open the low cabinet and take something out.

“This is for you…if you want it,” he murmured, returning to sit next to her.

As he opened his hand, she found herself gazing down at a ring box, and before she could speak he lifted the lid exposing a sparkling, pear-shaped diamond surrounded by tiny, green stones.

“Oh my gosh. Is that what I think it is?”

“Portia, I love you like I’ve never loved anyone. Please will you marry me? Please will you be my wife and spend the rest of your life drivin’ me crazy?”

“Yes, of c-course,” she managed, though tears suddenly sprang from her eyes and she could barely breathe. “I can’t believe it.”

“Honestly, darlin’, I never thought I’d say this, but I’m so damn glad you hit my truck on that freeway. Talk about a happy accident.”

Gazing down at the twinkling ring, she took in a deep breath, then raised her eyes.

“Devlin, my grandad is the smartest man you’ll ever meet, and he says there are no such things as accidents.”

“Lookin’ at you right now I have to agree. You—me—we’re way too special to be an accident.”

“So…does this mean I’m finally forgiven for hitting your truck?” she asked with a giggle.

“Damn, girl, you just never give up. But, yeah, since it was fate you’re forgiven. Now get in that bedroom and take off your clothes so I can ravage you.”

“Don’t you mean thank me?”

Throwing back his head, he laughed out loud, then suddenly grabbed her and jerked her over his knee.

“What are you doin?”

“I’m thankin’ you, darlin, the best way I know how.”