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Jolie laughed and hugged her, rocking her from side to side. “Nothing could have been more perfect for my brother, absolutely nothing. This is perfect, just like you’re perfect for him.”

“He’s perfect for me, too.”

“I agree. Now, let’s get it wrapped and double-check the other gifts while I get myself together.”

Rissa laughed and wiped her own face. The present might be damaged, but it worked anyway, kind of like Rissa herself.

Chapter 24

Pop The Question

Burke woke on Christmas morning with Rissa wrapped in his arms—the perfect present.

He didn’t want to disturb her yet, so he basked in the moment. Had he ever basked before? Had he ever thought about the word bask? Probably not in either case, but he loved it now.

He’d found his home in the most unlikely of places. A Vermont apple farm with his family and close friends. Most importantly, with Rissa.

His life had been nothing but work and investigation for the past year. He’d been burned out and heartsore.

Now, he’d found the person he wanted to spend the rest of his life with in a place they both loved. He could do his job remotely, and even take on new clients in the area when he was ready. He could ensure his family, friends, and neighbors were set up financially. He would put up a metaphorical shingle and help anyone who needed it.

He looked forward to traveling with Rissa and Frizzle to whatever jobs she booked and helping her with online lessons here on the farm. Her brain exploded with unique ideas. Her students would love it. So would he.

When Rissa sighed, the sound was full of contentment. She snuggled even closer to him, and then her fingers wandered over his chest. He kissed her hair. “Good morning.”

“Good morning. Wait. Merry Christmas. It’s Christmas!”

Rissa shoved up to her elbow, grinning down at him. “Our first Christmas here at the farm. Merry Christmas.”

He kissed the joy pouring out of her and lifted her until she lay on top of him. She wiggled in the very best way, and his body roared to life.

The kiss escalated quickly, and soon they were naked again, his body and heart hungry for more. For it all. When she shifted to take him into her heat, he couldn’t contain the groan of pleasure. She rose, her hands on his chest, and smiled down at him as she moved.

She sparkled like the twinkle lights she loved so much. He traced his hands over her hips, up her back, and to her breasts. Her head dropped back at the sensations.

When her movements quickened, she opened her eyes to look at him. “I love you, Burke.”

“I love you, Rissa. So much. Fly for me.”

Watching the orgasm take over her face and consume her body was magical. Her delight and wonder fueled him.

While she was shuddering, he reversed their positions and kept moving inside her, trying to draw out her pleasure.

When her eyes fluttered open, she smiled. He kissed, her then lowered his mouth to her breast, working her body back up to the heights.

“Together, Burke. Together.”

He changed the angle, and in a few more thrusts, they flew as a single unit.

He dropped his head to her shoulder and sucked in air. “I vote we start every Christmas like this.”

Her laugh trembled. “Seconded.”

He levered himself up to look down at her. With her hair tousled around her face, her flushed cheeks, and a bright smile, he figured the finest art in the world had nothing on her. “Marry me, Rissa.”

Her eyes widened, and the joy he saw gave him his answer before her words confirmed it. “Yes. Always yes.”

He kissed her with all the passion and love he had. Then he reached for the small box from the nightstand.