Page 87 of The Miracle of Love
“I cannot tell you how long it has been since I’ve felt happy. My body is singing and my heart is dancing, and…”
She was sloshed.
On less than two cups.
“And I shall never forget this beautiful night you have given me.”
“Nor will I, love.” He rose and came around to her side. They had finished their supper and it was time to return to the parlor.
He gave her his arm, more to be sure she would not trip over her own two feet. She gasped as they entered and rushed to the doors leading onto the terrace, opening them slightly. “The Bramson’s orchestra is tuning up. Listen.”
“I hear it. Sounds like they are about to play a waltz.” He took off his jacket and wrapped it around her shoulders to keep her warm. It was far too big for her and swallowed her up so that all he saw was her beautiful face.
He led her onto the terrace, for the stars were bright and thousands were visible on this clear night. The moon was big and splendid, reflecting on the water with its silver shimmer. Was it merely the effect Grace had on him? Or did the sky and water sparkle particularly brightly tonight?
Nothing could match the sparkle in Grace’s eyes.
The music started, the gentle refrains carrying on the night breeze.
“Dance with me, love.”
She beamed like a ray of moonlight and set his jacket on the balustrade before walking into his open arms.
He slowly began to twirl her around the terrace. “Do you remember this, Grace?”
She nodded. “We waltzed like this on the night we pretend met on that made up summer in Bath.”
“This dance will be real for us.” He drew her closer in his arms, holding her up against his body not only to keep her warm, but because he loved the feel of her against him. “We have the evening to ourselves. The music, the moonlight, and all these stars are out for us alone.”
She nodded again. “Because the world has melted away for everyone but us.”
“That’s right. No one exists but you and me.” He kissed her as they waltzed, claiming her soft mouth. She tasted so sweet, of honey and mulled cider, and the orange ice they’d had for dessert. “I love you, Grace Montford. This is real. No pretend words on a make-believe night. Here and now. You are everything to me.”
“I love you, too. Deklan, I am so sorry for every dismissive thing I said about you. There is no one with a better heart than yours. Can you forgive me for being such a fool?”
“I gave you so much cause to doubt. How can I blame you for all that was my own fault? As soon as it is safe to bring you out of hiding, I am taking you to Gretna Green. I want you to be my wife. Will you, Grace? I am asking you to marry me.”
She took a deep breath and smiled up at him. “Well, you have done it now. Made every wish of mine come true. Made every dream of mine come true. I am joyful and grateful, and my heart is bursting with love for you.”
“Is that a yes?”
She nodded. “You have made this a magical moment for me. Yes and yes again. Can you ever forgive me for being so wrong about you?The Book of Lovespoke of sacrifices and compromises, and seeing clearly what is before your very eyes. I was blinded by my high ideals, just as you warned.”
“You wanted a husband to share your life.”
“And I almost lost the perfect man because I was too foolish to understand what truly matters. It isn’t the number of days we are together. It is the quality of them that counts. What am I holding out for? Why would I change you when I love everything about you? I may not have you at home as often as I would like, but what you offer me will never be crumbs.Never. I’m so sorry I ever accused you of that. Your love is precious and every day you share with me is a priceless gift.”
He kissed her again. “I was born a stubborn and irreverent arse, and shall always remain so. Hopefully never beyond your tolerance. I never want to hurt you.”
“Speaking of your arse, I shall have to get used to that snake of yours.” Her lopsided smile reappeared and she seemed a little unsteady on her feet. Well, that blast of cold air as they danced could not have been good for her. “Hideous fanged thing on your rump, but I am sure I shall grow to love it as much as I love you.”
Bollocks, had he ever had a stupider idea than that tattoo?
But it seemed to fascinate women and arouse them.
Sweet Grace would likely be no exception. “Never mind about the snake, as long as you enjoy its tail. However, it will not be making an appearance for you tonight.”
“Why not?”
