“Really? I don’t know about that. I also have to give up my family, but at least they can visit.”
“What makes you think I’ll grow resentful?”
“Because of all the past failures of those who thought they could leave everything behind, but ultimately couldn’t.”
“I am my own man. Once I make a decision, I stick with it.”
“You say that now, but the odds are not in my favor. Don’t you agree the possibility of eventual resentment exists?”
He shrugged. “Once I got past the part where I was sure I’d fallen asleep watching science fiction theater, future resentment still wasn’t a part of my thought process.”
“Be serious.”
“Okay. You’re right. It would be hard, I get it. However, I love you. I don’t want anyone else. Even if my memory is erased, I can’t imagine myself loving anyone except you for the rest of my life. Without you, I will never marry, never have children and die alone one day slumped over in my wheelchair when I’m 108 years old.”
“What if Daphne Charlene comes after you?”
“Oh, trust me on this one, she’s already after me.”
“What if she catches you?”
Wyatt rolled his eyes. “She won’t. I won’t let her because I don’t like her in that way. Even if you and I had never met, I would not haveanyromantic feelings for that woman.”
Valene moved closer. “What I’m hearing is that you have romantic feelings for me?”
“Ihaveasked you to marry me twice.”
She shrugged. “Marriage proposals don’t necessarily mean romance.”
“Well, they do in my book.” Wyatt reached into his pocket and pulled out the ring he’d shown her at the Smokin’ Hog Saloon. It was just the ring without its box. He grabbed her hand, slipped the amazing diamond ring on her third finger and said, “Pretend I’m an alien and answer a question for me.”
“Yes.”
“I love you. Will you marry me, Vee?”
“Yes.”
“Really?”
“I’ve loved you for three years, Wyatt. Of course I want to marry you, if only I could.”
“We’re pretending and I’m an alien now, remember.”
“Oh. Right. Wyatt the alien.” She giggled.
“Wait a minute. Can you read my mind?”
Valene shook her head. “Not everyone is as talented as Cam. Axel can only see vague images, which he regards as useless. I can see colors and…” She paused as if considering whether to continue. “And I can also occasionally sense a person’s feelings, but only in short bursts. Also fairly useless as mind reading abilities go.”
“Feelings?”
“You know, like extreme anger, hurt, love.”
“Can you read my feelings right now?”
Valene closed her eyes and concentrated. “You love me. I already knew that.” She moved close, kissed Wyatt and whispered, “Are you going to let me sleep here tonight?”
“Yes.”
