Chapter 53 ALEX
NANCY GAZED, WIDE-EYED AND OPEN MOUTHED, at the ring I’d been carrying around for the past two weeks, unable to find the right moment to propose.
The scenario was about as far removed from romantic as I could have wished, but still, here we were, bound to one another—heart and soul.
I knew I couldn’t wait a moment longer to make it official.
Tears ran down her cheeks, then her eyes met mine, and she broke into a huge grin. “Yes, you soppy fool, I’ll marry you!”
“Thank you, bella donna.” I framed her face in wonder and drew her in for a reverent kiss. When I moved back, I caught her provocative expression.
“I asked the nurse when it would be okay for us to—”
“And?” My eyes grew keen.
“As soon as I’m discharged, provided we’re not too reckless.”
“Good to know, I have some fun and games planned for us.”
She pulled back with a confounded laugh. “Like what?”
“Patience, darling. A little delayed gratification never hurt anyone, and making love with my wife will make it all the more satisfying.”
“I know our track record, but I hope we’re planning a longer engagement than one day.”
“We could always elope. You, me, and a golden beach somewhere far away. You can wear your scandalous bikini.”
“Sounds heavenly,” she laughed and grazed against my lips. “But Mum would kill me. In fact, she may keel over when I tell her we’re engaged.”
“She already knows.” I smiled at her shocked expression. “I sought her permission. I am a stuffy traditionalist, after all.”
“You think of everything, don’t you?”
“I do my best,” I said as I removed the ring and slid it onto her finger. It fit perfectly, having already been resized. “Every generation of Tovertons has proposed with this ring, and now it’s my turn.”
“And what about your family?” she said uncertainly.
“Our marriage will work because we love each other. That’s all that matters.” I took her hands. “And, when the day comes, you will be a duchess.”
“But I don’t know the first thing about being a duchess.”
“You’ll be perfect just as you are.”
Nancy smiled softly, trying to keep her composure. “How do you always know the right thing to say?”
“Just wise for my age.” I winked.
END OF PART ONE