Page 63 of SEAL'S Secret Vows

“I’d like to thank everyone for making this day special. Your presence here today means the world to me. Let's cherish this moment in our hearts forever because it's not just my birthday. It's a victory day. Cheers!”

I lower the knife into the cake earning a sound of approval from everyone. Lauren cuts the cake into slices and shares it among our guests.

“Thanks for coming, guys,” I call out, offering them warm farewells as they make their way to the door.

“Happy birthday, Chase. We love you!” Joseph yells and shuts the door.

Nora and I find ourselves retreating to my bedroom, seeking solace in each other's arms. “Finally, we’re alone. I’ve been waiting for this moment.” I tug on one of her bikini straps, sliding it off her shoulder.

“So, no more court charges, right?” she asks, intentionally trying to deflect.

“Commander did say that we’d gathered enough evidence to clear my name.” I tug on the other strap wanting to take everything off.

“That’s awesome, I’m glad there won’t be charges.” Her gentle hands slide down my back tugging on my shorts. Her soft lips press light feathery kisses on my neck down to my chest and I shudder. Something deep inside me always flares to life at her touch; she makes everything come alive, completing me.

I trace the tan lines with my lips, grabbing at her waist tightly then taking off the rest of her bikini wanting to see all of her. Myfingers flex on her hips, like I’m trying to carve my own pattern, creating a masterpiece out of the tan lines.

“You’re so beautiful. Have I ever told you that?” I lift her gently, placing her on the bed, and kicking off my shorts. Without waiting for an answer, my lips crash against hers, heat radiating from her into my core. I need to take it slow even though my body is screaming the opposite. I explore every inch of her mouth, taking my time, but she grabs my shoulders pulling me closer. Her tongue dances with mine, frantic and needy. Slowly I withdraw from her lips, alternating between teeth and tongue nibbling at her ears down to her collarbone.

“Chase, I… yes…”

She moans, trying to catch her breath. Was that an answer to my question? My brain is too fuzzy to comprehend that right now. She clutches my shoulders and back for support as I thrust into her, then cups my face and stares deeply into my eyes reading each emotion, feeling, and desire, down to her bones.

She drags her nails down the length of my back as she rolls her hips against mine. My body jerks forward at the sudden action. She looks up at me, her eyes bright with hunger as I let her take control. I can never get tired of her no matter how many times we make love. The bed creaks softly as I flip her around. She’s now on top and able to take control. My hands loosen around her hips, her body molding perfectly around mine. With each stroke, and each gentle movement, the tension melts away, leaving only the overwhelming sense of love and desire that binds us together.

“It's been quite a journey,” Nora says softly, her fingers tracing lazy circles on my chest.

“It has,” I agree, my heart swelling with emotion as I gaze into her eyes. “But we've made it through, together.”

My heart is pounding with nerves as I reach under my pillow, my fingers closing around the small velvet box hidden there.This is the perfect time to do this. With trembling hands, I bring out the ring, its diamond sparkling in the light.

“Nora,” I say, my voice filled with emotion as I get off the bed and drop to one knee before her. “Will you marry me?”

She sits up then covers her mouth in shock.

“Chase…” She looks at the ring and back to me, her eyes filled with joy. “Yes, I will marry you.” I slip the ring on her finger and pull her into an embrace.

Epilogue

Chase

The sun bathes the garden in a warm, golden light as I stand at the altar, my heart racing with anticipation. I watch as she walks down the aisle, her beauty taking my breath away. Every step she takes brings her closer to me, and I can hardly believe that soon she'll be my wife.

As she reaches me, her hand in her father's, I’m overwhelmed with love for this woman. This is it. This is the moment we've been waiting for.

The minister begins the ceremony. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the union of Nora Evans and Chase Steele.”

I look at Nora, and I feel like my heart is about to burst.

“Today, Nora and Chase, you stand before us to declare your love for each other, to walk together and support one another in everything that you do. Marriage is based on trust, mutual respect and commitment. It is a great thing that you have decided to come together today to become one. Marriage is asacred bond; it's a lifelong journey, it's a partnership, for life. I ask, do you love each other?”

“Yes, we do.” Nora says, her voice strong.

“Are you ready to commit to each other?”

“Yes, we are.” I answer.

“Nora and Chase, remember that love is not just a feeling, but it's an everyday thing. You must forgive, embrace, and lift each other up. You must abide by each other. When you do this, you'll rise above all obstacles and difficulties. May your marriage be blessed. May you continue to inspire each other and all those around you.” Everyone choruses an amen before he continues.

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