Page 22 of Val (Wild Rose Ridge #1)

“Are you sure that’s all?” Micah asked.

The music stopped for a moment, then started again. Before she answered, he took her by the hand. “Shall we dance?”

Val caught movement out of the corner of her eye. Mrs. Schulte was speaking to Mrs. Beck, both smiling at her.

“Yes, why not?” She let Micah lead her to the floor, and they began to dance.

It was all Val could do not to cry. This man and his wonderful, gentle nature was like an anchor in a storm.

With him she felt calm, peaceful. Was she willing to give that up without a fight?

But who was she fighting. Him or herself?

Micah led her with practiced precision. “Where did you learn to dance so well?” she asked.

He smiled down at her. “Don’t you remember where I’m from. I’ve attended my share of balls and parties.”

Ah, yes, Philadelphia, Val reminded herself. “Well, you’re very good at it. I can only hope I don’t step on your toes.”

“You’re not bad either. Where did you learn to dance?”

“Growing up, attending gatherings like this a few times a year. My da taught me.”

He smiled. “I’m glad he did a good job.” He pulled her a little closer, and Val’s heart skipped.

“Val, there’s something I wanted to talk to you about…”

She nodded, and before she could stop herself, the words tumbled out. “Your bride, I know. But don’t worry, I made a list of attributes she needs to have.”

He gaped at her. “You did?”

She gave him a curt nod, all business now. “Aye, and she’ll be a fitting lass for ye.”

A slow smile curved his mouth. “Your brogue just got thick, Val. Real thick.”

“What has that got to do with anything?” She almost stumbled, and he righted her, holding her closer.

“Tell me about this list,” he said, looking into her eyes.

“Oh, um… well, all the things we talked about. She’ll have to cook and sew and keep house, but also help you with the church, your sermons, your flock, make your rounds with ye and…”

“And I think you’ll do just fine.” He waggled his eyebrows.

She tripped again, and they stopped. “What are ye saying, Micah Sutton?”

His shoulders shook with silent laughter. “I’m saying that I think you’re perfect for the role.”

“What role?” she shot back, drawing attention.

He leaned down. “Of my wife, of course.”

Val gasped. “What? Oh, no, but… I’m not…”

“Oh, yes, you are,” he purred. “I knew it the moment I saw you. You have more than your share of gumption, and that’s what it will take to be by my side.”

She stared up at him. “Micah, what are you saying?”

He locked his gaze with hers. “I’m saying, Valentine O’Malley, that I love you.”

He kissed her.

Val didn’t see it coming. One minute he was talking, the next his lips were on hers. They were warm, gentle, and her knees gave out!

Micah held her against him to keep her upright, but he didn’t break the kiss.

Giggles sounded around them, a few gasps of indignation, and even some applause.

When Micah finally broke the kiss, she stared up at him in disbelief.

He smiled. “Valentine O’Malley…”

“Val, if you please,” she breathed.

“Val.” He bent his head again, then went down on one knee, taking her hands in his. “Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife? Will you marry me?”

She sucked in a breath, noticing all eyes on them. Her breaths came in short pants, and she half-feared she’d faint.

Say yes! the sisters cried in her head.

Val nodded. “All right, if you say so.”

“What?” Micah laughed. “Was that a yes?”

She looked up at him, heart in her throat, and laughed. “Yes, I suppose it was!”

He grinned and got to his feet. “Does this mean you love me?”

She laughed, sounding a little hysterical. “It does, Micah. It does!” She threw her arms around him as people crowded around, offering congratulations.

When things settled and the dance resumed, Micah took Val to the refreshment table for some punch. “Proposals make one thirsty.” He handed her a glass and took one for himself. “Are you all right?”

She nodded, her heart and mind still reeling. “I don’t know what to say. You’ve shocked me.” Val looked up at him. “But you’ve made me happy, Micah Sutton. I almost…” She shook her head, unable to finish.

“What?” he asked gently.

Val met his gaze. “I almost walked away. From all of this. I couldn’t believe I could find happiness…”

“You deserve it, Val. You deserve everything I can give you and more. Never forget that.”

A rush of emotion coursed through her, and she realized she’d spent years convincing herself she didn’t deserve it. Her eyes went wide. “Good grief!”

“What, darling?” Micah wrapped an arm around her.

“If you’re marrying off my four brides, then who’s going to marry us?”

He laughed. “There are a few circuit preachers that come through town. Preacher Dan, a friend of mine, will be here early spring if not sooner. He can marry us. In the meantime, perhaps you could continue at the hotel. I’ll take care of everything.

” He set his empty glass aside and held her.

“Now, what say we see your young ladies wed?”

She smiled up at him. “That’s a good idea, Micah.”

“Oh, but first, I have something for you.”

“Another gift?”

He smiled as he reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a small box. He opened it. “For you.”

Val sucked in a breath. “Micah, it’s beautiful.” She pulled out the silver ring. It had a sapphire, the biggest she’d ever seen. “This must have cost a fortune.”

“It was my mother’s. She gave it to me before I came west and told me to put it on the finger of the woman I planned to marry.” He took her left hand and slipped the ring on her finger.

“It fits perfectly,” she whispered in wonder.

“I thought it might.” He drew her into his arms again. “Now, let’s go perform a wedding… or four.”

Val laughed, wrapped her arms around him, and snuggled into his chest. “All right, Preacher Sutton. Let’s.”