Another quick update.
"Never doubt that the man you love, loves you. And desires you very much."
With his words she could have wept with relief, instead, she leaned in and pressed her lips to his.
Charles was in heaven, the sweet pressure of her lips on his, their warmth, the softness of her hair on his cheek. When he felt her tongue slide along his bottom lip he slowly pulled back to look at her, and brought his hand up to caress her still swollen face. He ran his fingers through her hair, relishing in the feel of it. He wanted to explore every inch of her, feel and caress every perfect part, to make sure she knew how very beautiful she was. They were so close he could feel her breath on his face.
"Elsie, you are the most beautiful woman I've ever known, both inside and out." The smile and blush that graced her face motivated him to continue.
"I have been surprised by the amount of passion that has taken me, after feeling your touch, but I shouldn't be. Your loveliness has always had quite an effect, and being able to express myself—more openly is making it difficult to be away from from your side."
Elsie shook her head at his words. She had never been a vain woman, but knew she had been considered quite pretty in her youth. This never mattered however as she didn't put much stock in these things. Nevertheless this hadn't been the case for quite some time; age had had its effect on her as it did on everyone. Her face showed every one of her years, her body had filled out as she had given up her physical duties for a more managerial role. But it was lovely to hear him say the words.
From the expression on her face, Charles knew she didn't accept his words, but they pleased her nonetheless. This was something he needed to rectify.
"I would love nothing more than to show you just how beautiful you are—"
"Goodness, perhaps I have underestimated you! Theda Bara's influence has managed to corrupt Charles Carson."
Charles chuckled at her interruption, her need to tease him seemed too great to resist.
"As I was saying, I would love nothing more than to show you just how beautiful you are, but as you may have noticed I am somewhat of a traditionalist." At this statement, she couldn't contain a snort of disbelief.
"Somewhat he says." Charles quickly pressed another kiss to her lips to keep her from continuing. When he pulled back this time, her eyes were closed and a pretty smile graced her features.
"I am somewhat of a traditionalist and as such this would be inappropriate and ungentlemanly." She opened her eyes at his words and was relieved to see a playful expression on his face.
"There is something however, that I would very much like to ask you." As Charles slid from the bed and reached for his pocket, he began to feel nervous, but decided to just do what his heart was telling him. She had asked for honesty with his emotions, and he would be courageous enough to give her that. He had kept his mother's ring in his bedside table for decades, never believing he would have the opportunity to share it with the woman he loved. After their paddle at the beach last year, he had begun carrying it with him every day.
This is what he reached for now, as he lowered himself to one knee.
"Elizabeth Mae Hughes, every moment I spend with you, you make me happier than I ever thought possible. I would like to spend the rest of my life cherishing and loving you to the best of my ability. Will you do me the honour of becoming my wife?"
There you go! Did he speak to soon? How will she respond? Like where this is going? Too sappy? Not sappy enough?
Let me know what you're thinking - please review:)
Thank you for reading.