Page 69 of Not Over You (Prosperity Ranch 3)

Somehow, she made it through the rest of the meal without blushing again, and everyone congratulated her once more as she and Knox prepared to leave.

“Come over anytime,” Heidi told Jana. “We know Knox’s traveling schedule is intense right now, but that doesn’t mean you need to be a stranger.”

Jana was truly touched, but there was no way she was hanging out at Prosperity Ranch without Knox. Not that she’d tell that to Heidi.

Rex gave her another hug. Holt shook her hand. Macie waved goodbye. But Ruby stole the show by wrapping her tiny arms about Jana’s legs and not wanting to let go. Everyone laughed, and Jana left the ranch feeling like maybe things would be okay at these family gatherings. She’d find her place, and not be the odd woman out.

On the drive back to her place, Jana’s mind raced with all the conversations she’d had, and she wondered if she could have done things better or differently. There was no going back now, and Knox seemed content with everything.

The sun had set, but splashes of gold across the sky bathed the small ranch house in warm orange. Knox parked and climbed out, then motioned for Jana to come out on the driver’s side. He helped her out of the truck, then walked her to the front door, keeping ahold of her hand. They walked up the porch steps in silence, and at the top, Knox paused and looked down at her, his green eyes unreadable. “My family loves you, and I’m not surprised.”

“Well, at least Ruby does.”

Knox’s smile was soft as he drew her close. “Not just Ruby.” He kissed the top of her head. “You know, my mom was serious about you being welcome there anytime.”

Jana met his gaze. “Yeah, and that was sweet of her. But going over there randomly feels too… I don’t know… family-like? It’s not like we’re engaged or married.”

Knox’s gaze seemed to intensify. “About that…”

Jana’s breath stalled as he released her hand and knelt on one knee before her. She could only stare as he reached into his pocket and pulled out something small and round and sparkly.

“Knox,” she whispered.

He smiled, but as he held up the ring, his hand trembled. “Jana Harris… you are the love of my life.” He exhaled. “Will you marry me, sweetheart?”

Jana already knew her answer, but standing here, with Knox kneeling in front of her holding up a beautiful ring, made her wonder if she had even breath left to speak a simple word.

She leaned down and rested a hand on Knox’s cheek, then kissed him. He rose to meet her kiss, pulling her close. She pressed into him, loving how his arms around her had become her true home.

“Is this an answer?” Knox whispered, drawing away to meet her gaze, “or is that still coming?”

She gave a half-laugh. “It’s a yes.”

He grinned. “Then you better see if this fits.”

“Okay.” She was the one trembling now as he slid the ring onto her left ring finger. The diamond and platinum setting were gorgeous. “When did you pick this out?”

“A couple of weeks ago.”

“What? Are you serious?”

“I’m serious about you.” Knox moved in close again, his lips brushing her jaw. “And I love you, sweetheart.”

“I love you, too.” Jana slid her hands up his chest and behind his neck.

“That’s good to hear,” he kissed the edge of her mouth, “because it looks like you’re gonna be my wife.”

Jana laughed.

“And I’m hoping that my fiancée will read the rest of her book to me tonight.”

“Oh?” She smiled. “Is that your way of getting an invite into the house?”

“Whatever it takes.”

Jana smirked. “Then come on in, Mr. Prosper.” She led him by the hand inside. They settled on the couch together, and she nestled against Knox’s side. She opened her laptop to read the last couple of chapters.

Knox rested his chin on top of her head, and randomly stole kisses.

---