Chapter 91: Hamilton

I shift in my seat to pull the tiny black velvet box from my front pocket. “I’ve carried this with me since January.” I fall to one knee in front of her.

Madison’s hands fly to her mouth. Her eyes grow wide, and her breath hitches.

Smiling, I continue. “My life changed on my last night in Athens. I’ve missed you more every day since. I can’t tolerate my life, any life, without you by my side. Madison Crocker, will you save my lonely existence and marry me?” I extend the open ring box toward her.

I attempt to regulate my racing heart. I did it. I finally admitted everything. I’ve placed my heart in her hands.

“Ham,” she whispers as large tears flow down her face. “I have to tell you something first.”

“No, you need to answer me. Then you can tell me anything you like.”

“Hamilton, I’m afraid you may not want to marry me after I tell you…”

I realize the exhaustion I recognized earlier on her face was also fear.