Page 144 of Outcast’s Return

Fabien takes a seat next to me on the couch.

“What do you think he was after? He wants me to join the Castaways.”

My heart sinks. If I had it my way, I’d never hear another word about that stupid society for the rest of my life. We were doing so well. This place? Fabien buying it and making it our own? I was starting to feel good again. The vacation in Japan?

But now Fabien might get involved with the Order again, and I know that’ll ruin our peace.

“What did you say to him?”

I’m so scared of what Fabien might say next. His expression is unreadable. I honestly don’t know what he might do. I know how much joining the Order means to him, and no one ever turns down the Castaways. He might even go back to them.

I brace for heartbreak.

“I ended it,” he replies quietly. “I refused. If I have to choose between the Castaways and you, then I choose you every fucking day of the week.”

It takes a moment for the words to sink in.

He chooses me. Every day.

“But... that would’ve cost so much to do. Jesus, Fabien, they mean everything to you.”

“Yeah, but you mean more, Angel.”

I wrap my arms around him.

“I would do anything for you,” I mutter into his ear.

“Anything?”

“Yeah.”

Fabien pauses for a heartbeat.

“Well, there is something...”

“What?” I ask. “I’d do anything.”

“Would you be my wife?”

“What?”

Fabien’s already off the couch. He’s on one knee in front of me.

He’s pulling out a ring.

“I thought I needed the Castaways to fulfill my father’s legacy,” he says, “but that’s not true. I just need you, Angel. And I know that’s what my father would’ve wanted. For me to be happy. You make me happy. You’re so damn smart, sassy, independent, caring. You’re everything I want, and I want you to be my wife, Angel.”

What else can I do but nod enthusiastically?

And Fabien’s back up. He’s grabbed my face and is kissing me passionately.

And I’m kissing him back, his words echoing in my mind. Joy takes over my heart.

“Mrs. Cote,” I say quietly. “I like the sound of that.”

“Me too.”

And then, in one movement, Fabien lifts my entire body up into the air and spins us around. I’m laughing as he holds me in his strong arms.