Epilogue
THREE MONTHS LATER
CELESTE
I wait at the restaurant, my leg bouncing with nervous energy as I scan the parking lot through the window.
Leo said he'd be here, that he could get a pass tonight, and my body aches with missing him.
I traveled here to see him one more time before he has to deploy, but it's unlike him to be delayed.
A contingent of soldiers enters the restaurant and my heart soars, but Leo isn't among them.
"Ma'am?" The server is standing beside my table, a steaming drink on her tray. "This is for you."
She sets the mug on the table in front of me and gives me a smile, then steps away to take an order. The sweet smell of hot chocolate wafts up and I'm thrown back into the memory of that night. Snowed in, Christmas, wearing sweats borrowed from the man I was falling in love with.
I take a sip and close my eyes, savoring the taste, and wishing Leo was here with me.
When I open my eyes once more, I think I'm dreaming. Because Leo is here.
Beside my table.
On one knee.
"Celeste, love," he says, and then takes a deep breath, his throat bobbing as he swallows.
My brave soldier is nervous, and I'm aware of a crowd forming around us, but I refuse to look away from the handsome man in front of me.
"I want you in my life forever. I love you more than I will ever be able to truly show you.
I'm not perfect, by a long shot, but I promise I'll always love you. Will you marry me?"
There's a ring box in his hand, the light of the restaurant glinting off the stone and throwing rainbows around us. I want to say yes.
"Are you sure about this?" I ask him instead and watch as his jaw goes tight. "You know I sing Christmas carols in the shower and leave my decorations up pretty much year round. Can you live with that level of holiday celebration for the rest of your life?"
He smiles, the tension bleeding out of him, and he nods. "I'll manage."
"Then my answer is absolutely yes. I will marry you."
Cheers erupt, and I hear the telling click of photos being taken, but none of it matters. Because Leo is standing up, his strong hand taking mine, pulling me to stand with him, and the ring he's chosen slipping onto my finger. A perfect fit.
Then he kisses me and that's perfect, too.
My Forever Christmas Gift.