CH.85

I felt dizzy and a little shaky on my feet when he finally let go, clutching to his forearms for stability.

"Shall we head up to the upper deck?" Karl’s voice was slightly husky as he brushed the pad of his thumb over my swollen bottom lip. "I have a little surprise waiting for you up there."

My interest was immediately piqued. I nodded eagerly, allowing him to take my hand and lead me up the winding staircase to the yacht's top deck.

The sight that awaited me there literally stole my breath away.

A small table had been set for two right in the middle of the open-air space, covered with a crisp white tablecloth and fine china settings.

A bouquet of deep red roses rested in a crystal vase as the centerpiece, surrounded by a smattering of votive candles that cast a warm, romantic glow over the entire area.

Twinkling fairy lights were strung all along the railings, adding an extra touch of magic and whimsy.

"Oh Karl..." I breathed, slowly turning in a circle as I tried to take