And there it was, the question she’d wanted to avoid at all costs. Now was the moment of truth. She could either lie and put off the inevitable for a while longer, or admit to her role and face his wrath. “On a metal slab.”
He blinked. “Who?”
She dragged in a deep breath and made the biggest gamble of her life. “Me.”
“Okay.”
Iona waited for the repercussions. They didn’t come. “Wait. That’s it? Just acceptance?”
His lips curved. “When can I get out of here?”
She stared. “Seriously?” Iona dropped the volume of her voice. “Elias, I just admitted to killing your father, and you want to know when you can get out of here?”
“It’s the most important piece of information I need.”
Iona blinked. “Why?”
“Is your memory going?”
“I don’t think so, but I’m wondering about yours.”
“Baby, nothing is more important to me than putting my ring on your finger. The only thing stopping me is the doctor’s permission to leave this hospital. How soon will the doctor let me out of here?”
“I don’t know. He wouldn’t say until you came around and could talk to him.”
“What time is it?”
She glanced at her tactical watch. “Just after two in the morning. Why?”
“I want you in line at the County Clerk’s office when they open today.”
“Elias.”
“You promised to marry me as soon as possible. Today is the day.”
She shook her head. This couldn’t be happening that fast. Didn’t he want pictures? Iona studied his face and decided that perhaps pictures could wait until the swelling and bruising went down in his face. “Elias, I want to wait until you’re able to leave the hospital.”
His bruised jaw hardened. “No.”
“Honeymoon, babe. I want one somewhere besides this hospital.”
Elias paused. “Hmm. That is a problem.”
“Right. I’ll get the license, but we’re not getting married until the day you leave this place. Deal?”
“Deal.”
Thank God. Stubborn man. She sat on the edge of the bed and cradled his hand between the two of hers. “You scared me.”
“I’m sorry.”
Iona held up a hand. “Don’t apologize for something that isn’t your fault. I thought we would die together in those woods.”
“Then why did you reveal yourself in the compound? You should have stayed hidden instead of making yourself a pawn for my father to use.”
“Separately, we’re vulnerable. Together we’re unbeatable.”
“Can’t argue with the results.” He raised their clasped hands and kissed the back of hers. “I love you, Iona Byrne.”
