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“Yes.” She huffs, looking down and away from me. “That’s what I want.”

There’s a moment of silence where I can tell she’s chewing on an admission, but I wait patiently for her to speak.

“I’m sorry it took me so long to get here.” She says softly, finally glancing up to meet my gaze and putting her hands on my chest. “But I want this. I want you.”

I reach up to push back one of her curls behind her ear.

“That’s not enough, Elsie,” I say with a teasing smirk. “You know what I need to hear.”

“Marshall.” She whines.

“Elsie,” I say in a jokingly stern tone.

“Fine.” She pushes away from me and turns around. “But I’m not saying it to your face.”

I take a few steps forward and wrap Elsie up in my arms so my hands can cup her belly.

“Tell me how you feel, Elsie.” She sighs, her body tense, but I bring my lips to her ear and whisper, “What do you want, princess?”

A shiver rolls through her body, and she relaxes into my arms.

“I... I made a new agreement.” She says quickly before breaking out of my hold and returning to the dining table. “It’s for both of us to review and sign.”

“Elsie...” I say, losing hold of my patience a little.

“Look.” She turns to me and looks at me straight on. “This isn’t easy for me. I’m good with negotiations and business deals, not feelings. I’m trying to do this the best way I know how. I love you so damn much and...”

Her eyes grow wide, and I can’t help the chuckle that escapes.

“You love me, Elsie Snow?” I ask, my voice bright with the knowledge.

“Yes.” She says sternly with a furrowed brow. “I love you, and it feels like such a stupid thing to have to admit.”

“But you did.” I point out.

“Yes. Fine. I did.”

“You love me,” I say softly.

“Yes, you silly man. I love you, and if you’ll let me, I’d like to tell you that on occasion.”

“For how long?” I ask with a smirk.

She returns my expression. “How does forever sound?”

“Show me the agreement, and I’ll consider it.” I laugh.

“And the house?” She asks nervously.

“It’s perfect,” I say, pulling her in for a kiss.

Chapter 38

Elsie

Marshall’s lips against mine feel like coming home, truly home.

There’s comfort, passion, and love in every touch of our lips.

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