The Tycoon's Proposition

“I have a government friend who will grant them temporary visas. What else is on your mind?”

“My boss.”

“I feel sorry for the poor devil. He’ll never be able to replace you.”

Terri’s mouth turned up at one corner. “He’s not a poor devil.”

“He will be when he hears the news.”

She took a deep breath. “Won’t your family be shocked?”

“It’s guaranteed.”

“When will you tell them?”

Their glances collided. ?

??Is there any doubt in your mind they already know?”

“I suppose not.” Martha had been furious. And hurt.

“Parker is probably in mourning as we speak.”

Flame licked her cheeks. “Don’t be ridiculous.”

“What else are you worried about?” he drawled.

“I have an apartment to vacate.”

“That’s easy. With one phone call we can hire movers to pack. I’ll send a company plane to transport everything to the ship.”

The man moved with the speed of light. It caused her mind to run in a dozen different directions all at the same time.

“Beth and Tom need a second car. I could give them mine.”

“Speaking of needs, you’ve reminded me that you’ll have to bring along a birth certificate to get the application process started on your passport.”

“I think Mom still has the original in a scrapbook somewhere.”

He leaned closer. “She’s waving to us from the front porch. Before we go in, there’s one more thing to do. Give me your left hand so I can put this on.” His voice sounded husky.

Out of the corner of her eye she saw something glint. Within seconds he’d pushed home a breathtaking diamond solitaire set in gold onto her ring finger. Terri’s body trembled so hard, the different facets kept picking up the light, revealing a heart of fire to match the one blazing inside her.

“Terri? Ben?” Captain Archibald Rogers of the Atlantis stood in front of them looking splendid in his white uniform.

“The day after tomorrow this great ship will undertake its maiden voyage. People around the world will laud it as a truly momentous occasion. They will say it is something unique in the annals of engineering, miraculous in the history of mankind’s achievements.

“But as great as that will be, something more glorious is about to take place right now. Family, friends and business associates from near and far have assembled to witness the joining of you two fine, worthy people in the sacred bonds of holy matrimony. You are about to become a family, the mainspring of civilization.

“When a man and woman honor this hallowed institution, there can be no greater bond on earth, no greater haven, no greater refuge, no greater joy.

“In order for this precious state to exist forever, there’s only one thing you need to ask yourself every day of life, Ben.

“What can I do for my wife today? Then do it!

“Terri? All you need to ask yourself every day is, what can I do for my husband? Then do it!

“When a husband and wife care more for each other than themselves, no power on earth can destroy that love which is blessed.