Page 79 of Under the Radar
“It’s a cobalt blue tanzanite that was my great grandmother’s. I’ll buy you any ring you want, but I can’t buy history and heart. This ring has both. Each diamond represents a long, loving, happy marriage.”
Mo’s hand trembled with excitement. “I love it, and I love you for sharing it with me. Such a gorgeous legacy. Thank you for wanting me to have it.” She stood on her tiptoes and pulled him in for a kiss.
Mac lifted her, and in between sensual kisses, slowly duck-walked toward the dunes and the table. Mo was the only woman he’d ever proposed to in his life. “Thank you for saying yes. I’m happier than I’ve ever been. You are such a gift.” His insides burned hot like a warrior god who had vanquished every enemy and claimed his kingdom. She was all that and more.
Mo raised an eyebrow. “You didn’t think I’d say no?”
He rested his forehead on hers. “Not really, but it’s a nerve-wracking rite of passage to ask.”
Her eyes lit with amusement. “You outdid yourself with the fireworks and the drones, Commander.” She spread her arms wide. “And look at this romantic beach. I only wish I could see it all again like it’s the first time.”
Mac cleared his throat and nodded to the waiter opening a bottle of champagne. “There’s a videographer past the dunes who recorded the whole thing.”
“Really?” She slipped from his arms and craned her neck to see over the waving sea grasses. “You’re kidding, right?”
“No, we want to remember this night forever.”
Mo grinned and wrapped her arms around him. “You’re so thoughtful. Thank you.”
Mac handed her a champagne glass. “To you, my love. You’ve made me the happiest man alive.”
She ran a hand down his chest. “You blindsided me in a good way, Mac. I love you. I’m smitten beyond words.”
Mac traced her bottom lip tenderly with his thumb. He wanted to give her every important thing—all the special moments and treats in life, especially the ones that money couldn’t buy. He pulled her into his arms and kissed her, each sigh and touch warming his lips.
From somewhere on the dunes, a voice bellowed, “Hey, get a room.” Mac broke the kiss and laughed softly into the curve of her neck.
Mo cocked her head. “Who was that?”
An ornery smile crossed his face. “My father.”
“What?” She spun around. “Your father’s here?”
“Yes, and my mother and your parents.” He ran his fingers through her hair. “I knew it would mean a lot to include them.”
“That is the coolest.” Mo set her champagne glass on the table. “My mom and dad are back there? Is that why there are six place settings at the table?”
She glanced toward the dunes. Their parents were already parading down the boardwalk. She flew back into Mac’s arms. “Oh, thank you. What a wonderful surprise. All my folks have ever wanted was my happiness and you make me deliriously happy.” She gave his lip a nibble. “Would you ask my father for my hand? He’s kind of old fashioned. I’m his only child.”
He gave her a wink and a peck on the lips. “Already done, cupcake. How do you think I got them here?”
Two waiters strode behind their parents, carrying trays of food. Mo pointed at them. “How many people do you have stashed behind those dunes?”
He crooned like a cocky rooster. “Let’s see, two chefs, a full wait staff, security personnel, a sommelier, one very discreet photographer…”
A puzzled expression danced across Mo’s face. “Oh, my goodness. Did they see the fireworks and your proposal?”
He stuffed his hands in his pockets and offered a sheepish grin. “Yes, but not the part when we rolled around in the sand. And just so you’re prepared, our parents have been enjoying cocktails and chatting back there for quite a while. They might be a little toasted at this point.”
Mo burst out laughing. “I’m so in love with you, Mac Mackenzie. You’ve not only delighted me, but you’ve given them the sweetest night to remember.” She took off running and leaped into her dad’s arms, pulling her mother in for a group hug overflowing with best wishes, congratulations and tears.
Mac’s father clasped Mac’s hand as he gave his teary mother a long embrace. “That was a proposal for the record books,” his mother sniffled. “I’m so happy for you. She’s a lovely girl.”
They feasted on tableside cooked-to-order surf and turf, twice baked potatoes and roasted-to-perfection fresh vegetables. The wine flowed and laughter drifted above the dunes as each parent took a turn telling funny stories. Mo positively glowed with happiness in the candlelight.
Replete, Mac sat back and reveled in the warm family and romantic atmosphere he’d envisioned.
Mo’s mother crossed her knife and fork on her plate. “I don’t suppose you two have thought about a venue or date for the wedding? It takes time to plan these things.”