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"Come for me." His hand slid between us, finding that perfect spot. "Let me feel you."

I shattered. Everything went white and bright and perfect. I heard myself cry out, felt him drive deeper, harder, then his own release as he buried his face in my neck and groaned my name.

We stayed like that for a long moment, both of us breathing hard, hearts pounding against each other.

Finally, he lifted his head and kissed me, soft and sweet. "Don't move."

He disappeared into the bathroom. I heard water running, then he came back with a warm washcloth, cleaning me gently before tossing it aside and pulling me against his chest.

I settled into his arms, my head on his shoulder, listening to his heartbeat slow.

I felt sleep beginning to take me over.

"Wait. Don’t go to sleep yet."

I kept my eyes closed. “If you want another round, you have to do all the work.”

He shifted, reaching over to the nightstand on his side. The drawer opened. "I was going to do this downstairs. Make it romantic with candles or some shit. But this feels right. Here. Now."

He pulled out a small velvet box.

My heart stopped.

"Katherine Lord." He opened the box. Inside was a ring—simple, elegant, a single diamond on a platinum band. "I've spent twenty years analyzing threats and making tactical decisions, and I've never been more certain of anything than I am of this." His eyes met mine. "Marry me. Be my wife. Build a life with me in this town with these crazy people. Let me spend the rest of my life making you happy."

I stared at the ring, then at him. This man who'd saved me, protected me, seen past every facade to the real person underneath. This man who'd given up his career for the right reasons, who loved his chaotic family fiercely, who made me feel safe and seen and cherished.

"Yes."

His eyes widened. "Yes?"

"Yes, you idiot." I laughed, tears spilling over. "Yes, I'll marry you."

He pulled me into a kiss that tasted like salt and joy and promises. When we finally broke apart, he slid the ring onto my finger. It fit perfectly.

"How did you⁠—"

"I asked Angelica for your ring size three months ago."

"Three months? Code, we were still⁠—"

"I know." He grinned, looking younger and lighter than I'd ever seen him. "But I told you. I was certain. Plus, I called your Grandma Laurie yesterday, and she gave me her permission. I’ve already arranged for her to fly out here this coming weekend."

I kissed him again, deep and slow, my hand with the ring resting on his chest. "I love you."

"I love you too. My fierce, beautiful, stubborn future wife, and I’m going to do everything in my power to make you the happiest woman on the planet."

I looked up and cupped his cheek. “You’re mine now, Code,” I whispered. “I know you’re going to knock yourself out trying to keep me and our children safe and happy, but just know, I’ll always be here, making sure you’re taken care of too.”