Page 102 of Risks

“Okay. Be out in a bit.”

I close the door as Dad walks away.

“Thank god,” Toya says. She climbsout of bed and comes over to hug me.

I kiss her forehead and hold her tightly.“Thank god indeed.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll take care of herwhile I’m here.”

“It’s not your job, babe. Ali shouldthink of her health.”

She eases back a little to look atme, voice soft as she asks, “Are you okay?”

I nod. “I am now.”

“All right. I’m going to jump intothe shower.”

“Hey.” I grasp her hand before shewalks away. “There’s something I have for you.” I turn to rifle in my carry-onluggage, retrieving the small box.

Toya smiles when I take out theengagement ring. She switches her other ring to her right hand, allowing me toslide the new one on. It’s a perfect fit.

“It’s beautiful, Varen,” she murmursas if amazed. “Can I say yes again?”

I chuckle. “You can say it as manytimes as you want, babe.”

“Then yes,” she says. “A milliontimes, yes. I’ll marry you.”

I lean down for a slow and sensualkiss, so damn happy I’ll get to call her my wife in the future.

After stuffing ourselves with ahearty breakfast, we relax at the outdoor table, enjoying the warm day while talking.

“I’m sorry for worrying you guys,”Alison says for the hundredth time. “What happened was a wakeup to slow down.”

Dad holds her hand on the table. “Iknow you’re trying to prove yourself at the firm. Just don’t push so hard, allright. We need you with us.”

“I’ll do better, Dad.” She looks atToya and me. “Sorry again that you cut your trip short.”

“It’s okay,” Toya tells her, wavingit off with her right hand. “Family first.”

Alison frowns. “Speaking of family.I didn’t scare Grandma and Grandpa too much, did I?”

“I called them earlier,” Dad says.“They’re happy you’re all right and promised to visit us soon.” He chuckles softly.“They’re excited for their new grandchild.”

“Me too,” Alison chimes, the grayhue in her eyes brighter than ever. “I’m happy I’ll have a little sibling.”

“Hm.”

I grasp Toya’s hand on her knee,giving it a little squeeze before looking at her.

She catches the gist and nods for meto go ahead.

“Um, we have something to tell you,”I start, drawing a deep breath.

Dad and Alison straighten withinterest.

“What’s up?” Dad asks.

“Well…” I smile at Toya and lookback at my dad and sister. “I asked Toya to marry me.”

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