Caught in the Frame (23 page)

“We only have two more days here.” Chloe lamented. “I’m excited about going home, but I also don’t want to leave. I like spending my days and nights with you. And I don’t want you to go back to your father’s house.” She finished quietly, not quite meeting his gaze. She didn’t want to push her luck; make him feel like she wanted more than he was ready to give. But if she was honest with herself, Chloe knew her feelings ran deep—and she hoped they were on the same page.

Nate pulled himself into a sitting position, set his cup on a nearby end table and leaned toward her. He gently placed a finger under her chin and lifted Chloe’s face until they were looking into one another’s eyes. “I don’t want to go back either. I want to stay with you, forever. I love you, Chloe.” As he spoke, Nate shifted onto his knees and pulled the box from where it was stashed between two pillows.

“I’ve always loved you, and I want to spend the rest of my life making you happy. Will you make me the happiest man alive?” And with that, he opened the box and held his breath as he watched her expression change from casual excitement to gleeful incredulity. Nestled inside the box was a ring that would make any woman sing; a vintage, white gold pave band sparkled in the firelight, twisting around an exquisite, princess-cut diamond at least two carats in weight.

It was beautiful, but Chloe would have said yes to whatever had come out of a Cracker Jack box. Her breath caught in her throat as she realized this wasn’t a dream—she really would get to keep Nate by her side forever. Wrapping her arms around his neck with a vice-like grip, Chloe answered Nate’s question with a deep, head-swimming kiss. When she finally released him, her jubilant “yes” left no room for doubt.

THE END