Practice Makes Perfect

“Because I knew once I did—it would be over for me. Some part of me has always known I would love you.”

“Annie?”

“Yes?”

“I love you.”

“And then I called my brother, and as we talked, I realized that leaving this town without you was the scariest thought I’ve ever had. I need you in my life like I need air, Annie. You have wrecked me in the best way I could ever imagine, and I’ll never be the same. Never want to be the same.” He kisses my forehead. “I love you. And I know marriage is something that’s deeply important to you—and what you want is deeply important to me, so…marry me, Annie. No one else.”

It was easier to say I don’t believe in love, rather than admitting to myself that I was afraid I wouldn’t be loved back.”

I splay my hand over his chest. “Heartbreaking, Will. It’s impossible not to love you.”

“Annabell, I need you to know, I’ve fallen madly in love with you.”

I hold still. “But you don’t believe in love.”

“Come with me?”

I nod. “Anywhere.”

“Good. Now…can I finish my kidnapping, please?”

“I would never ever leave without telling you. Never.”

“My name is Captain Blackheart,” he says before hoisting me up over his shoulder, making me squeal. “And you, my lady, are being kidnapped.”

First things first. “Whose truck is this?”

“Mine.”

“But you don’t have a truck.”