Chapter Fifteen
Ivy stared at the brook, at the sunlight dancing on the water, the rippling reflections. When she was certain—well, almost certain—she wasn’t going to cry, she lifted her gaze to Hugh. He was watching her, an expression of cautious hope on his face.
They looked at each other for long seconds, and then Hugh smiled at her. “Ivy, will you please marry me?”
The urge to cry ambushed her again. Ivy bit her lip and nodded.
Hugh’s smile broadened into a grin. “Thank you. That was the answer I wanted.” He stepped closer, gathered her in his arms, and kissed her gently.
Ivy closed her eyes and leaned into Hugh’s kiss. Her crutch fell unheeded to the ground. Hugh’s arms were strong, his mouth tender, and he loved her. Hugh Dappleward didn’t care that she was lame. He loved her.
