Voices Deep Inside (Book 1)

Chapter Thirty-One

Chapter Thirty-One

Morning Plans and Departures

Reality struck Talia as Roman asked the question. He was right. Talia knew tomorrow that they both would leave the comfort of the Huntveldt Estate and travel back to their homes. Talia realized she would be apart from Roman, and she couldn't bear the thought.

Ridge and Josie strolled hand in hand over to where Roman and Talia were sitting. Ridge brought up two more chairs for his brother and Josie to sit down and join them.

"Roman, I need to ask you something," said Ridge.

"Sounds serious," said Roman.

"First, let me show Talia," said Josie, and she held out Ridge's ring. "Ridge has asked me to marry him. My father said 'yes', and I also accepted."

"Don't you need my permission since father is not here?"

Ridge did a double take at his brother, and then Roman burst out laughing and slapped him on the back in congratulations.

"Oh, Josie, I am so happy for you," said Talia as she hugged her friend.

"We were going to be sisters-in-law."

Both girls said at the same time, followed by laughter and tears of joy.

"Josie's parents have invited me to their home in York," said Ridge. "Her mother would like to host an engagement party for us, and I was wondering if it would be alright if I spent a few more days away from home."

"I don't see any problem with you traveling with the Johnson's. In fact, Talia and I were just discussing our plans for tomorrow."

"I could ride with you tomorrow in your carriage. I am sure my father would approve."

"We could look at the land that borders the Henderson Estate."

"That would be perfect We would get to spend a couple more days together."

"What are your plans for Devon?"

"I plan on taking him to York with me," said Ridge.

"We still have two of the Thanturnam horses at our estate. The mare is ready to foal, but the stallion could travel back with you."

"See why I love this girl. She is so smart."

Talia blushed at Roman's compliment.

"So, you finally told her. You have to excuse my brother. He is rather a dullard when it comes to women."

The girls laughed as Ridge teased Roman.

The Huntley's and the Johnson's entered the atrium to remind the two couples that it is getting late. Everyone said goodnight as the two couples meandered to the staircase.

After the parents had climbed up the staircase to their bedrooms, Roman pulled Talia into an alcove to kiss her goodnight.

"Good night, my sweet Talia. I look forward to everyday I can spend with you, and I yearn for the time when we no longer have to be apart."

Then Roman kissed her with abandonment leaving Talia's legs weak. She returned his kiss and held on tight to his waist. She felt the padding on the side of his waist and pulled away to look him in the eye.

"Are you all right?" asked Talia with concern in her voice.

"I'm fine," said Roman. "I may have overdone it today with the different competitions."