Page 54 of Your Heart & Mine

Her amazed gaze swung to Wyck. The house looked stunningly familiar though she'd never been there before. "What is this?"

His smile held a hint of his old cockiness. "Our house, just like we dreamed and planned. I hired Brad and Conner to start construction before everything happened." He nodded out at the panoramic view. "For our future. I've always seen you in it, Angel."

Overwhelmed, Harper turned shining eyes back to the magnificent scene. Wyck had been building them a life here while she wavered. Fate had almost stolen this breathtaking vision from them.

Wyck slowly climbed the steps up to the expansive front deck, Harper's hand clasped firmly in his for support. At the top, he turned to take in her reaction.

"Well, what do you think?" His tone was hopeful but tinged with vulnerability. After all, he'd designed this grand retreat for their future based solely on the plans made by a couple of young kids years ago.

Harper's gaze roamed over the impressively timbered structure, its soaring windows and sweeping decks designed to maximize the staggering natural views. She could picture lush ferns hanging off the expansive porch, the vibrant rhododendrons lining the ridges creating a natural, colorful welcome when they came home every day.

Her eyes tracked down the sloping clearing, imagination painting pebbled pathways trailing through wildflowers leading to a gazebo tucked into the glen of pines. Just like the one they'd hid in dreaming about this exact house so many years ago.

Turning slowly on the weathered boards, she took in the panorama of majestic peaks framing the valley vista like stoic sentinels. Eagles and hawks rode the currents above, only enhancing the sense of awe. Wyck had chosen the location perfectly.

Finally, Harper faced him, joy shining through her tears. "It's beyond perfect," she managed thickly. She cradled his face in her hands. "You're incredible."

"You're perfect, Angel," he said, voice raspy with emotion.

Harper tangled her hands in his hair and pulled him toward her. The terrifying days when he lay unconscious seemed a lifetime ago now. "I am so thankful for you," she told him softly.

Wyck's gaze turned solemn, regret etching his face. "I'm so sorry I put you and everyone through all this..." He stared down at his hands resting lightly on her waist.

"Hey, the only thing that matters is you're still here." Harper waited until he met her earnest gaze again. "We're together, and the worst is behind us. Everything else will keep healing."

Wyck searched her face as though rememorizing every loved feature. "Have I told you that you're my hero?" he asked hoarsely. "I'd never have made it through this without you fighting for me."

Emotion clogged Harper's throat. She laced her fingers with his. "We fought together. Just like we'll keep fighting until you're one hundred percent. You're not getting rid of me so easily again."

"I never want to be without you again." Wyck's eyes crinkled with delight before he pulled a small box from his pocket.

Harper's eyes shone with unshed tears as Wyck eased himself down to one knee with the assistance of the wooden railing.

"I've asked this before, and you weren't ready," Wyck said, grey eyes searching hers intently. "But this accident reminded me how fragile life is. I don't want to miss any more time with you, Harper."

He extended the glittering ring, hope and trepidation on his face. "Marry me, Angel? I've loved you practically my entire life. Say you'll stay by my side forever."

Harper's hands flew to her mouth, emotion welling powerfully. When she found her voice, it trembled. "I've been so stupid and scared, Wyck. I let the past make me doubt you and my feelings, when all I want is to be with you."

She reached out to cradle his beloved face in her hands. "I love you with everything in me, Wyck Crockett. It would make me the happiest, luckiest woman alive to be your wife."

Wyck's fingers shook slightly as he slid the ring onto her finger. Reverently, he brought her hand to his lips, sealing their promise with a kiss.

When Harper helped him rise, joyful tears in both their eyes, Wyck drew her into his arms. Their mouths met with unrestrained passion, making up for wasted time and doubts. Harper lost herself in his embrace, thrilling to his hands roaming her body again. He was her past, present and future.

When at last they broke apart, flushed and breathless, Wyck rested his forehead against hers. "Thank you for taking this leap with me. I'll spend the rest of my life making you happy."

Harper gazed at her ring catching the vibrant sunset. "Thank you for not giving up on me, Wyck," she whispered. With his hand warm in hers, she finally let herself feel nothing but hope and happiness.

Chapter forty-two

Epilogue

Harperpeekednervouslyoutof the window watching as the last of the guest were seated under the large white tent. Outdoor heaters had been placed all around the space to keep everyone warm. She knew it was folly to plan an outdoor wedding in December, but she and Wyck didn't want to waste one more day being apart, and Harper wanted her wedding to take place at her new home, overlooking the valley she loved.

The day had dawned cold and clear, the sun doing its winter best to shine for their big day. She swallowed a little nervously as she took in all the people. Most of the town must have shown up.

"Ready for the red carpet, Love?" A warm voice asked behind her.

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