“I don’t care if it’s too soon to tell you that. Genuine, earth-shattering love is deeper than a feeling. It’s a choice, as my mom used to say, and I choose to love you. You’re the only woman I’ve ever wanted to choose. Stay with me when we leave this place. Make a life with me in Juniper Grove or Hartfield or wherever else you want. Meet my family. I want to meet yours. And when you’re ready, Esme, sweetheart—” Noah pauses, removing his hand from my back and cupping my face, wiping at the liquid streaming from my eyes as it merges with the ocean water already there. “Marry me. Pencil me in. I
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