Page 114 of Ashes of Saints

I step closer, leaning on the wall. “What is it?”

“I hope you’re serious about loving me, Parker Stone, because I think you’re about to become a father.”

My mouth falls open.

How did that... shit, I know how.

Fuck.

My god.

“No,” I say without thinking, and her tiny smile vanishes. “Crap. Not no.” I close the gap, take her hips, slide my hand behind her neck. “No, I’m not having a child out of wedlock. You are marrying me.”

“Parker.”

“Marry me, damn it.” I demand.

“It’s—we can’t. There’s so much.”

“Marry me. Or I’ll kidnap you and force you to say yes.” I say irrationally.

Aurora laughs.

It’s the first smile I’ve seen of hers in weeks. I start smiling too. We must look stupid as fuck.

“Is that a yes?”

“It’s a you’re in shock and need to settle down, daddy-to-be.” Aurora rests her cheek against my chest. “Park, I’m going to be a mommy.”

I wrap my arms around her tightly, smiling at the nickname. I hate them, but I’ll let her get away with it.

“You’re marrying me.”

“We’ll see.” I hear her smile.

“Are.” I growl softly.

“Maybe.”

I chuckle.

This child is a gift. We aren’t going to make the same mistakes the adults from our past made. I’m more determined than ever to find Aurora’s birth parents—our unborn child’s grandparents.

I hope my grandmother lives long enough to be in this child’s life. I guess I need to make some calls about my mother and younger brother.

It’s amazing how love can change you.

I sought out revenge and instead was gifted with two beautiful souls. Who knows, maybe more?

My decision is made. It’s time to hand over the evidence to the authorities.

And make this woman my wife.

EPILOGUE

AURORA

SIX MONTHS LATER

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