Garrett came inside with a sigh.  "Cassidy?!"

"I'm here," she called, emerging from the bathroom.  "You're back."

"I am.  I missed you."

"I missed you too."  She smiled. "Good trip?"

"Yeah...in some ways."

"Well, I guess that's good."  She kissed him.

"I really, really did miss you."

"And I missed you, Garrett."

"I don't ever want to be without you."

"I hope you'll never have to be.  I don't plan on going anywhere."

"I brought you something."

"You did?"

"I did."  He bent down on one knee, rifling through the duffle bag he'd sat on the ground.  "Ah...here it is."  He opened a box, displaying a gorgeous platinum diamond ring, highlighted with emerald accents.  "Cassidy Kincaide.  Will you marry me?"

Her jaw dropped.  "I... yes, Garrett."  She dropped to her knees to kiss him firmly.

"Really?"  He whispered.

"Really."

"I love you so much."  He smiled.

"I'm going to be your wife." The word seemed to have gained a few syllables when she wasn't looking.

"Yes.  You are."

"I love you... Garrett, this is amazing."

"Why?"

"You want to marry me."

"Yes I do."

"All I can promise is to be the best wife I know how."

"You'll be perfect."

"You're already pretty much my husband."

"I know."

She fairly threw her arms around him.  "Thank you."

"For what?"  He laughed, holding her close.

"For loving me. For wanting me to be your wife."

"Then I should be thanking you."

"I love you."  She kissed him.

"I love you too."

"Make love to your future wife?"

"Of course."

To The Next Part