“You can still become a Templar,” she protested. “You don’t have to give up your dream.”
“I can no longer become a Templar,” he insisted.
Raven stepped away from him. “Is it because of what we did? Is it your vow of chastity?”
“No,” he said, following her retreat. “I was never meant for a life of chastity. I realize that now.”
“Then what?” Raven asked, her brow twisting with concern. “Don’t give up your dream of becoming a Templar as my father did.”
“For me, the Templars were a temporary oasis. A refuge from Boucher. A path to…” He took her shoulders and drew her to him. “You. You are my dream now.”
She blinked, stunned.
“You are strong and honorable, confident and resourceful.”
She blushed and bowed her head. “And excellent with a sword.”
Laughter rumbled through him. “Aye. Excellent with a sword. And so very much more.” He hooked his finger beneath her chin and lifted it to meet her gaze. “I was not going to leave. I gave you my word I would not, and I never will.”
“Never?” she doubted, her eyebrows rising.
“Never,” he promised, holding her against him.
She cocked her head to the side playfully while entwining her arms around him. “What if you find out that I snore?”
“I already know you do.”
Her mouth dropped in mock insult. Then it snapped shut, and her chin tilted up. “What if you find out that I can’t farm?”
“I am not looking for a farmer.”
She sighed softly, melting against him. “What if you find out I am not the woman youarelooking for?”
“You are unlike any other woman I’ve ever known. You have proven yourself to be more honorable and compassionate than anyone I’ve met. You are stunningly beautiful and talented and…” He couldn’t resist. He pressed his lips to hers, covering any more objections. She was soft and passionate and thrilling and irresistible. He pulled back to look into her lidded eyes. “And I love you, Raven. I’ve fallen completely in love with you.”
“You have?” she asked hopefully.
“Aye,” he replied with a small grin.
“I love you, too, Landyn,” she admitted, placing a warm hand against his cheek. “I think I’ve loved you for longer than I even knew.” She inhaled deeply and lowered her hand. “Then, it is settled. We will find Sage and Willow, and you will marry me.”
Landyn laughed out loud, throwing his head back. His joy surged to the heavens.
She gently hit his arm. “Isn’t that what men and women who are in love do?”
“Aye,” Landyn agreed tenderly. “It is.”
