Daiquiri Dock Murder (34 page)

“Iguanas?”

“We see them in the water now and then. They swim, you know. Harmless. When I’ve asked Gram to move into our hotel, she begs for reasons as to why she should leave this paradise for the noise and commotion of Key West. I have no reasons to offer. This is her personal Garden of Eden and I come to visit now and then.”

“Why tonight? Why when she’s away from home?”

“There’s something I want to ask you.”

“Okay. Have it your way. Be a lady of mystery. What’s your question?”

I pulled Kane into the bright moonlight and looked into his eyes. Standing on tiptoe, I kissed him lightly on the cheek.

“Kane, will you marry me?”

Startled for only a moment, Kane regained his composure when he turned my light caress into a more probing kiss. When we broke to breathe, he nuzzled his lips along my neck.

“Rafa! I’ve asked you dozens of time to marry me only to hear you say no. I never thought of you asking me.”

“I couldn’t ask you until you knew the worst about me and my past, my past that haunted me right into my future—until a few days ago. Can you accept me as your wife?”

“Yes. With all my heart, yes! When can we tell all our friends at The Frangi?”

“Tomorrow night on one condition.”

“Okay. What condition?”

“That I ask Dolly to write a poem to commemorate the event and that I ask her to become a published poet by filling my column space with her poetry for one week this month.”

Kane hid his groan behind a smile. “Your wish is my command.”

We stayed until dawn, enjoying the moonlight, the breeze, the water, and I knew this special night was another thing Gram would have approved of.