Page 36 of Season of Mercy
“I know you’re not the one to blame for that... thing.” Mercy allowed herself a tentative smile. “There’s something else I need to tell you. I’m in love with you.”
One moment, Ethan’s eyes widened, as if he could hardly believe the news.
The next moment, Ethan ran to her, lifted her, and whirled her around. The feeling of elation swept her up. When he put her down, she was dizzy in the most wonderful way.
“Oh, about the box I went to pick up at the office yesterday...” Ethan reached into his pocket.
Mercy shook her head. “I don’t need the proof you needed to be there.”
He took out a small black velvet box and dropped on one knee. “Mercy, will you please marry me?”
She wanted to laugh and cry at the same time. “I already married you.”
“Well, I’m so happy you love me that my thoughts got scrambled. I meant a renewal of vows in the church. I want you to have the wedding of your dreams that you’ll remember forever.” He opened the box. A gorgeous ring sparkled with seven diamonds.
Mercy felt dizzy again. “Of course I’ll marry you. I mean, we’ll renew the vows. How kind of you to think of that. And the ring is beautiful.”
Ethan grinned as he rose to his feet. “The ring was in that box I just mentioned. I had to buy it online because we don’t have a jewelry store in our small town. And then I mailed it to my work address because I didn’t want you to accidentally see it. I meant what I said, Mercy. I love you.” He slipped the ring on her finger.
“I love you, too.” She moved closer to him.
He dipped his head, and a wave of excitement rushed through her in anticipation of a kiss.
Ethan’s father cleared his throat.
Ethan glanced in his dad’s direction. “Oh, sorry, Dad.”
The older man winked at him. “Nothing to be sorry about. It’s about time that you kissed your wife.”
Mercy chuckled. She could see where Ethan got his charisma from.
Stevie stirred, jumped from the bed, and ran to Ethan. “Daddy!” Then he turned to Ethan’s father. “Grandpa!”
Ethan lifted Stevie in the air. “Hey, buddy! I’m happy to see you again.”
Her son turned pleading eyes at her. “Mommy, are we gonna go home?”
Everybody seemed to stay still.
Her heart swelled in her chest. “Yes, sweetie. We’re going home.”
