Definitely not.
He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a small box.
Smaller than the snow globe box.
Unwrapped.
Oh god, is that--
“I know we’re still figuring things out,” he starts. “Your dissertation defense was three months ago, the restoration initiative is in startup chaos, and we’re navigating two cities. But Sorrel--”
I kiss him before he can finish. Just launch myself across the couch and kiss him hard enough that we almost topple backward.
He’s laughing against my mouth. “You didn’t let me finish.”
“You were going to ask me to marry you,” I say breathlessly, “probably with some beautiful speech about mycorrhizal networks and symbiotic relationships. Am I wrong?”
“Not even a little.”
“The answer is yes!” I kiss him again, and can’t help the sudden tears of joy.
He pulls away long enough to slide the ring on my finger.
It’sperfect.
A simple platinum band with a small stone that catches the firelight. Nothing ostentatious. Nothing that screams I’m-engaged-to-a-billionaire.
Oh my god.
I’m engaged.
Engaged to Gregory Falk.
“Did you ask my dad for permission?” The question just pops out.
“Of course.” He looks almost offended I’d think otherwise. “He said yes. Also told me if I hurt you, he knows how to make bodies disappear.”
I laugh so hard I nearly fall off the couch. “That’s absolutelynotsomething Dad would say.” Then I become serious. “Wait a second, on second thought, actually it is.”
Gregory pulls me to standing. “Dance with me.”
“There’s no music,” I protest.
But he’s already pulling me close, one hand on my lower back, the other holding mine. We sway in the firelight, and it’s quiet except for the crackling logs and distant wind outside.
This is happiness.
This moment.
“Thank you for getting lost in my blizzard,” Gregory murmurs against my hair.
I can’t help but grin. “Thank you for finding me.”
He kisses my forehead. “I love you.”
“I love you, too,” I whisper.
The ring catches the light, and I’m watching it sparkle.
