Because he could never get enough of Sloane.
But first…
Preston cleared his throat. “Did you ask me to marry you?”
She tensed. Her head lifted. She searched his eyes.
Behind her, sunlight began to drift past the mountains. Dawn was coming. No more darkness.
“I…” Sloane wet her lips. “I said ‘when we are married’…pretty sure those were my words.”
“So you think we’re going to get married.” His dick was definitely hard in her again.
“I…” Her hips squirmed against him. “We don’t have to rush…there’s plenty of time.”
He dropped one hand. Teased her clit. “All the time in the world. But…”
She ground her hips against him.
“But if you’re asking,” he growled.
Her eyes flared wide. “Marry me.”
“Hell, yes.”
As if he’d be fool enough to ever let her go.
She smiled at him. His favorite smile. The one that lit the darkness of her eyes and made him see streaks of gold. Made him see the light.
She was his light, and he’d protect her for the rest of his days.
Epilogue - One
Not many mourners showed up at the funeral service. Not that Preston had expected a crowd. Truth be told, he was surprised more than two people were there.
He’d planned to attend the burial. He had to attend. After all, it was his brother being put to rest.
Adam.
Sloane was at Preston’s side because, of course, she was. She was his partner. Whatever darkness he faced, Sloane was there to meet it. Unflinchingly.
Lily and her Atlas were also in attendance. Something that did surprise him. He hadn’t exactly expected them to linger in town, but they had. The twins were doing well, or so Sloane had assured him. Two strong heartbeats.
Debra waited nearby. Eyes dry. The star on her uniform gleamed.
Frankie had gotten out of the hospital, too. The FBI agents believed that Eugene had been the one to attack Frankie. The working theory was that the deputy had attacked Frankie with a taser from behind, when Frankie had tried to stop Adam from taking Sloane in the hospital parking lot.
Frankie wasn’t at the cemetery. He was enjoying a few days of well-deserved vacation and recovery time with his sister. Preston had gotten them a two-week stay at a luxury beach resort.
He’d tried to send Debra away for some relaxation time, too. She’d refused. She was already back at the sheriff’s station.
Noble stood a few feet away. Jaw tight. Body tense.
One spray of flowers rested on top of the coffin. Just one. The flowers were a mix of lilies and carnations. Sloane had picked out the flowers. Lilies—for peace and restored innocence.
Adam’s innocence had been stolen from him long ago.
The carnations? Sloane had told him those were for remembrance.
