I really hope he’s wrong because if Dimitri doesn’t approve, I’m not sure what will happen.
I know Danil cares a lot about what his brothers think, and I would hate the idea of him having to choose between me and them…
Before I have a chance to question him further, the waiter appears to take our drinks order and when he leaves, Danil changes the subject.
“I know you still have one more year at college, but what are you planning on doing once you graduate? I remember you mentioning going to grad school…”
I shrug as I take a sip of my wine.
“I think I’d like to, eventually, but maybe it would be a good idea to take a break for a year or two.”
“And do what?”
“Travel. Just experience life outside of education for a while.”
“I think that sounds like a great idea.”
“You do?”
He frowns. “Of course, why wouldn’t I?”
“I don’t know… I guess it’s always been drilled into me to study and work and just hustle because that’s what my parents did.”
“I get that, but this is alsoyourlife, Emily. If you want to spend the rest of it travelling, then so be it.”
I can’t help but laugh.
“I would love to, but I don’t have a limitless bank account like some people…” I grin at Danil, and he rolls his eyes.
“You know you never have to worry about money. I will always take care of you.”
“Danil… That’s an incredibly sweet gesture, but I don’t expect anything from you. If we’re going to do this, I want us to be equal.”
“Are you asking me to be your boyfriend, Emily Mullens?” Danil asks with a boyish grin.
I groan. “Oh, my god.”
He chuckles, flashing me a wink. “I’m taking that as yes. Okay, so you want to travel, but what about marriage, or kids?”
My heart skips a beat at the mention of marriage and kids.
I smile shyly as I think of a bunch of kids running around with Danil’s beautiful eyes and my blonde hair.
We really would make very cute kids.
“It’s on my radar for sure, with the right person…”
I glance up under my lashes and see Danil smiling at me.
I smile back despite having Zara’s comment from earlier about taking things slowly ringing in my head. “Shall we order some food?”
“Already done.” Danil reaches across the table. “I think you forget sometimes how well I know you, Emily Mullens.”
As I thread my fingers through Danil’s, I realize that I’m not falling in love with Danil like I thought.
I’m already there.
26