Page 42 of Thalen

“Why are we going up there?”

I simply smiled, hoping that I hadn't miscalculated in how he’d take my surprise. “Come on,” I finally got out, both of my hearts lodged in my throat.

“Thalen.”

“Trust me.”

His eyes narrowed.

“You have been acting strangely for the past few days. What is going on?”

I couldn't stop smiling.

“It is quite likely that I have acted out of sorts recently.”

“And you wouldn't tell me why.”

“That is also true.”

“Thalen —”

I tugged gently on his hand.

“Come on.”

He followed me, still looking suspicious.

Vrann and Jason followed on our heels, although they were much less confused than Evan from their expressions. They were giggling, nudging each other. We reached the stage. Jesse stepped back as Johree moved forward.

“Evan,” he said warmly.

Evan looked from Johree to me.

Then to the arch.

His eyes widened as he realized that during his questioning, Johree and Jesse had repositioned themselves so that when we came to a stop, we were beneath the arch.

“No.”

I smiled.

“Yes.”

“You're —”

His gaze came back to mine.

“You're marrying me?”

“Yes.”

He stared at me for another heartbeat.

“It’s not them getting married. It’s us,” I confirmed.

Soft laughter from the crowd and the other males on the stage with us had him blushing as he glanced around, remembering them after apparently having forgotten for a moment as he tried to parse what was happening.

“You're —” His gaze came back to mine, and he swallowed. “You're marrying me?”