Chapter 8

Dakota responded, "I told you that I felt the same way, you feel like my home, and I don't want to lose that; I don't . . ."

Dakota paused, then looked into his eyes and said, "I don't want to lose you."

Maxwell then took her in his arms, pulled her into him, and said, "Well, I guess there is nothing left to do then, except to buy my steady girl a ring, and not to hang on a chain, but to wear on her finger. I don't mean some friendship ring, but an engagement ring. I want to make what we have tonight permanent at some point. What do you think about that?"

She paused and then replied, "Are you asking me to marry you?"

"I told you earlier today that when I see something I want, I go after it, and I want you. So, yes, I am asking you to marry me. Now, not today or tomorrow, but when we both feel the time is right."

Dakota bowed her head down and rested it on Maxwell's chest. He could hear her sobbing quietly.

Maxwell raised her head up by her chin, wiping the tears away from her cheeks.