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“But it’s your birthday,” she protested. “You can’t just?—”
He took her hand in his and pressed a kiss to it. “I can because it’s my birthday and I get to do what I want on my birthday.”
She pouted but didn’t argue with him.
Mike pushed open the door to the newly renovated studio. There were already paintings there that she’d completed when she spent her evenings at his place. He wandered among the easels, shaking his head with wonder.
“Never in my wildest dreams did I think that this place could feel like home.” Mike eyed Rose, turning to face her fully. “You did that, you know? You’re the reason for all of it.”
Rose reached up and feathered her fingers through the hair at his temple. “Have you talked to anyone about selling it? I know that was where you were leaning, but it’s been complete for almost a full year now, and you’re still not?—”
He couldn’t fight his smile a minute longer. “I was never going to sell it.”
She snapped her mouth shut, her eyes widening. “But I thought?—”
“I had the lawyer draw up the paperwork, took out a loan… I couldn’t sell it. I just… I knew this was where I wanted to be.”
“Really?” she whispered with awe in her voice.
“Really,” he said firmly.
“Oh, Mike! That makes me so happy. The memories…”
“I know.” He pulled her close, slipping his hands around her waist. “But that’s not the surprise.”
“It’s not?” She blinked, glancing around the room with curiosity.
“It’s not in this room, either… well, okay, it is.” Mike shoved his hand deep into his pocket and wrapped his fingers around the ring. “But it’s not what you think.” He pulled the ring from his pocket and slowly lowered down onto one knee. “Rose, I want to ask you?—”
“Yes!” She let out a squeal of delight. “Yes! I’ll marry you.”
Before he could figure out what was happening, she’d thrown her arms around his neck and collided with him hard enough that they nearly tumbled to the floor. She peppered his face with kisses. “I thought you’d never ask.”
Mike grinned. He should have known better than to think she wasn’t ready. Already, he could see a future with Rose—one where he could keep the memories of his grandparents alive. And they’d do it together.
