"Of course. I'm not the greedy knave everyone thinks I am."
"But I thought you wanted to amass extensive amounts of property and wealth for your clan."
"I will, but some other way. All I want is…" He took her hand into his. "For you to be by my side forevermore, my partner in life, the mother of my future children, the holder of my complete trust… and my heart."
"Oh, heavens." Smiling, she blinked back tears. "'Tis the most romantic thing I have ever heard."
He chuckled, enjoying her smile so much. "Promise you won't tell anyone."
She laughed, tugging at his hand. "Come here, before I crawl out of this bed to join you on the floor."
He arose and sat on the mattress facing her, impatiently awaiting her answer. When she slid her hand around his neck, he leaned down and captured her lips in a stunning kiss, so delicate, yet fierce at the same time. Saints, how he treasured her.
He pulled back to search her beautiful amber eyes. "Does that mean you accept my proposal?"
"Aye, of course." She beamed. "Nothing would make me happier than to be your wife."
He had never felt such relief. "Thank the saints, for I cannot imagine my life without you."
Tilting her head, she gave him a sly grin. "You knew I would sayaye."
He stroked his thumb over the corner of her beautiful lips. "I was unsure because you are an independent woman who has little need for a husband."
"Well… I need you, Cyrus MacKenzie. And I love you."
Joy such as he'd never felt filled his entire being and the words leapt out before he could stop them. "I love you, too."
∞∞∞
Cyrus poured a round of whisky for Rebbie, Dirk, Fraser, and Kilverntay in the library later that night after supper. He hoped Elspeth was sleeping and recovering. Though he would miss holding her this night, she needed a lot of rest.
"Did you two talk about Lily?" Rebbie glanced back and forth between his father and Cyrus.
"Aye." Kilverntay accepted the small glass of whisky Cyrus offered him. "He had already decided not to sign the betrothal contract."
"He did?" Rebbie quirked a brow and eyed Cyrus. "Has the impossible happened?"
Hell. Cyrus knew what was coming.
"He has indeed found a love match." Kilverntay grinned.
"Lady Grey?" Dirk inquired.
"As if there was any doubt." Fraser smirked. "He was smitten from the moment he saw her."
How the devil had Fraser known that? Frowning, Cyrus felt a slight heat rise to his face. Damnation, he could not be blushing. He would do no such ridiculous thing. But to have been so wrong about what he thought he'd wanted for his own future, he did feel a bit embarrassed.
"Isobel will be thrilled with this news," Dirk said.
"Well, I for one am glad you've come to your senses." Rebbie smiled. "Has she agreed to marry you?"
"Aye." Cyrus was thankful for that. What if she'd refused? He would've been miserable.
Kilverntay raised his glass in toast. "To the Earl of Stornmor's upcoming marriage."
"Slàinte," they said in unison.
Later, after everyone retired to their chambers, Cyrus paused outside Elspeth's door. He was glad someone had given him the room next to hers. Had that been her idea? If so, he was pleased she wanted him close-by.
