*Isla*

I never really envisioned this moment. Maddox is down on one knee, his eyes turned up to meet mine expectantly. I realize with a start that at this moment, this man, this Alpha King most people won’t even look in the eye out of fear and respect, is kneeling before me… me. 

“I love you,” I say, my voice trembling. The column of his throat bobs as he swallows, his brow furrowing. 

“Are you saying no?”

“Of course not,” I say softly, then slide off the bench so I’m resting on my knees in front of him. I hold out my hand, and he takes an audible breath, his...