The Aftermath

[Emily Shale-Vanders]

Emily felt her heart begin to speed up as Jared got on one knee. She couldn't believe that this was happening, especially because it was happening so soon. Jared proposed, and Emily felt her mouth open slightly, and she found herself unable to respond. She knew the answer to his question, but in her surprise, Emily couldn't form the words.

It was Jared's nerve fueled words that broke her silence. "Shut up," she said, kneeling with him. "Of course I'll marry you!"

Emily kissed him and smiled. Her heart rate was still elevated from the excitement. She didn't want to let go of the kiss, so she pulled him closer to keep him from ending it. He didn't pull away until she finally did to take a breath.

Breathing hard, she looked into his eyes. "I love you," she said again. Standing, she pulled him to his feet. "I know you have to go soon, but I want you to stay for as long as you can."

Emily pulled herself closer to him so that there was no room in between them. She kissed him and put his hand on her waist. "I have a few hours before I have to be back to HQ." Jared said, brushing her hair.

Emily smiled and pulled him towards her bedroom. She knew how she wanted to spend those few hours.