"Hmm?" His arms were locked around her while her face rested against his chest, listening to his steady heartbeat.

"Can we get married now? Like at that Justice of the Peace?"

Scotty hesitated. "No. Not until this is over."

She looked up. "Why?"

Because if I go to jail Vanessa, I will not have you tied to a murderer. If things don't turn out the way I want them to, then you will lead the life that you were meant to lead—the life I want you to lead. ...