Page 15 of The Score

His fingers settle in my hair, except for his thumb. It makes arches on my cheek.

I nod. It shouldn't be hard to take his help. He's right— I need a break. Finding a way to make my life amazing should be an easy decision.

"Yes," I say. "I'll do it. We'll come up with a plan, and we'll do my bucket list. Maybe I'll find a way to cut back on work."

"Good." He kisses my temple. "Because I have something else I'd like us to do."

The ground is a mix of packed sand and large stones under my feet. Orange light flickers on everything, casting shadows that dance all over. It's hypnotizing, but something about his voice makes me stare up at him and hold.

He presses his lips like he's nervous. For a guy who doesn't seem to know what anxiety is, it's major. Whatever his plan was, it didn't end with him convincing me to take a leave from work.

"Bear?" I whisper.

I've never been one for premonitions but, the moment he leans close, I know our lives are about to change.

He's close enough that I think he's going to put his forehead to mine, but he doesn't. His breath caresses my face as he takes a deep breath. My lungs stop, as if I can't fathom stealing any air from him as he prepares to speak.

Then I freeze as I process his words.

"Marry me, Pen."