Page 10 of Mountain Soldier

On one knee.

"Celeste, love," he says, and then takes a deep breath, his throat bobbing as he swallows. My brave soldier is nervous, and I'm aware of a crowd forming around us, but I refuse to look away from the handsome man in front of me. "I want you in my life forever. I love you more than I will ever be able to truly show you. I'm not perfect, by a long shot, but I promise I'll always love you. Will you marry me?"

There's a ring box in his hand, the light of the restaurant glinting off the stone and throwing rainbows around us. I want to say yes.

"Are you sure about this?" I ask him instead and watch as his jaw goes tight. "You know I sing Christmas carols in the shower and leave my decorations up pretty much year round. Can you live with that level of holiday celebration for the rest of your life?"

He smiles, the tension bleeding out of him, and he nods. "I'll manage."

"Then my answer is absolutely yes. I will marry you."

Cheers erupt, and I hear the telling click of photos being taken, but none of it matters. Because Leo is standing up, his strong hand taking mine, pulling me to stand with him, and the ring he's chosen slipping onto my finger. A perfect fit.

Then he kisses me and that's perfect, too.

My Forever Christmas Gift.