Chapter 14
We found Tallulah pacing outside the closed treatment room where Carlisle was. As soon as she saw me, she erupted into tears. I hurriedly grabbed her, and, with a sense of déjà vu, I pulled her into my arms. "I've got you," I said.
She whispered, "He did it all, Pen," looking at me.
"My father. He was responsible for everything.
" My anger flared when I saw Tallulah break her heart while she was in my arms. It was awful to see her in pain.
How could I possibly be of use to my closest friend?
She was always the strong one until the truth about her brother and now her father came out.
As soon as I met Jessop's gaze, he moved forward and embraced us both with his powerful arms. "None of this is your fault," he said.
Tallulah's weeping soon subsided after he kissed her on the head. "Heck, I'm sorry," she sniffled.
"How's my brother?"
"The doctor and a nurse are in with him." She let out a sigh. "Nothing is broken. He has bruised ribs and cuts on his face. Just a few bruises, but he'll be fine." She struggled to contain her tears as they began to build up in her eyes. "I was so scared. I thought my dad was going to kill him."
Jessop tensed beside me. He kissed me briefly on the lips, then gave Talla a quick kiss on the forehead before entering the treatment room. I watched the door shut, his back vanishing into the room.
As we leaned back against the wall, Talla wrapped her hand around mine. "Pen, are you feeling okay? Carlisle asked Jessop, but they're guys. They don't ask the right questions."
I couldn't help but chuckle. "I'm more than okay." I paused. "I think we're getting married." Saying the words aloud made me feel a little bit euphoric. "I mean, he asked about it. I said yes. But he hasn't said anything since." I frowned. "Do you think he's changed his mind?"
She laughed. "You're kidding, right? That man is in love with you. Anyone can see that. I'm really happy for you, Pen." She put her head on my shoulder and said in a playful voice, "You deserve happiness, and I know you'll always have it with Jessop."
"Talla," Jessop said the moment he opened the door. "He wants you."
Without waiting a moment, my friend shot into the room as Jessop took my hand and pulled me into the empty waiting room. I frowned when I saw the hard look on his face.
"What?" My heart suddenly dropped.
He shook his head and got down on one knee.
Now, my heart raced with shock and excitement.
"Will you marry me?" Jessop asked, holding out a delicate gold ring.
His hand trembled, and his eyes filled with love.
"I wanted a more romantic setting than a hospital waiting room, but I can't wait.
I'll take you out and juice and dine you soon.”
I burst out laughing. "Juice?"
"I can't wine and dine you because of our baby, so yeah, juice and dine." He smirked. "What'd you say?"
Tears sparkled in my eyes, and I was speechless with joy. "Yes," I whispered. "I love you."
He quickly got to his feet and, resting his forehead on mine, slipped the ring onto my finger. "This was my mother's engagement ring. If you'd rather have a different one, I can get you one."
"Hell no! Wearing your mother's ring means a lot to me. You're not getting it back."
He grinned. "I never want it back."
I threw myself into his arms and held on tight. This man was going to be mine. I never thought I would have him. "I love you, Penelope," he said. I buried my face in his neck and breathed him in.
The sound of a throat being cleared drew our attention. Kendrick stood awkwardly beside us. "Sorry to interrupt." He waved his hand between us. "Is Carlisle okay?"
Jessop blew out a breath. "He'll be fine. Nothing's broken. Just bruised." He smiled wryly. "I'm sure Tallulah will look after him."
"Is it all over now?" I asked.
"In Sugar Briar, yes. Stillman has been moved to solitary until Riley, Lane, and Hodges arrive to question him." Kendrick offered me a smile. "The threat to you is gone, Pen." He glanced between Jessop and me. "Congratulations, huh?"
"Thanks," Jessop said, an embarrassed flush spreading across his cheeks.
"Thank you, Oliver."
"Well, if no one needs me, I'm going to head home and sleep for the next forty-eight hours." He waved as he left.
I turned and grinned at Jessop, who pecked me on the lips.
"God, I love you."