Page 31 of The Mobster’s Prize

Dag pinches my butt.

“What? I want to hear more stories of you as a kid.” They all have shared the funniest moments of young Dagastino. The little prince of the house, letting his sisters paint his nails and dress him up in their clothes. The picture they brought as evidence almost made me pee my pants.

“We would love to stay,” his mother says. “I brought cannoli and will make espresso. Girls, can you wash the plates and set the table?”

I don’t know if I can eat any more, but I’m happy they’re staying. But my boyfriend is very much not pleased with the plan. That’s okay. I’ll make it up to him later.

* * *

“You’re in trouble, cupcake.”

He shuts the door, locking it as he comes back in from seeing them out.

“Why is that?” I put the last dish in the dishwasher and rinse off my hands.

“Because.”

He comes up behind me, kissing my neck before turning me to face him.

“You’ve made me wait hours.”

He swoops in, kissing me long and slow. I’m ready for him to put me to bed. It’s been a long day.

“I wanted to spend time with them. Plus, I could tell your mom needed it. She’s amazing, by the way. I think you’re a very lucky man to have her in your life.”

“I know I am.” He kisses my cheek. My neck. My ear. “I also think I’m lucky to have you. They absolutely love you, babe. But I knew they would.”

“I love them too.”

The entire day felt easy. It was such a great memory.

“That’s a good thing because they’re going to be your family now.”

I love the sound of that. They would make the most amazing in-laws.

When he pulls a ring from his pocket, I gasp. I didn’t realize he was asking me now. Is this really happening?

He slides down to one knee, looking up, that handsome smile lighting up his eyes. No more creases around the edges. No more permanent scowl. Nothing but warmth exuding from him.

“I wanted to give you a chance to meet my family before I asked the question, but I’m done waiting now. Will you marry me, Alexandra?”

I think I’ve been waiting my entire life for this moment. All I ever dreamed was to find love. But I never imagined it would be this amazing.

“Yes, Dag. I will marry you.”

He puts the ring on my finger then he scoops me up into his arms, kissing me until I’ve forgotten my own name.

“I think we should play a game.” He smirks, carrying me into the bedroom.

“What game?”

“Who can come the fastest.”

“And what does the winner get?” I ask, my back hitting the mattress.

“Anything her heart desires.”

I’ve already won. He’s the only thing I want.