Page 450 of Cold Case, Warm Hearts

“I like both.”

He shifted to stand behind her, then carefully tugged her against him—ouch—as he wound his arms around her. “I’ll have to find the tree where Grandpa carved his name.”

“We should carve our names.”

“I’m not sure I’m in favor of destroying nature like that, but I appreciate the sentiment.” He shifted and pulled the tiny thing from his pocket.

So small in his big hand.

Jacob held it in front of her and spoke over her shoulder. Whispered in her ear. “Marry me, Addie.”

She tensed.

Jacob held himself completely still, not sure what her reaction would be. It was on his heart to ask if she would be the subject of his next book. But maybe that was a story they’d write together—one that would last a lifetime.

Then she whispered back a single word.

“Yes.” Addie’s lips spread to a wide smile.

Jacob lifted his gaze to the sunrise.You were right, Grandpa.

There was always hope.

The End.

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