Caitlin moved to face Garrett and took his face in her hands. "You were doing what you do best-protecting me. There were moments when I was angry and hurt over a few things, but you have been and always will be in my heart. I'm sorry I got preoccupied with the B&B transformation and forgot to call, but it had nothing to do with you or my feelings for you."
"How do you feel about me?" Garrett's eyes harbored sadness yet a faint light tried to break though the pain.
Caitlin took a deep breath. "I love you, Garrett Winston. Nothing will ever change that. I once asked if you thought true love existed in today's world. It does. We're proof of it. When you call my name, when you look at me, when you hold my hand, my insides do flip-flops. One thought of you puts a smile on my face that lasts an entire day. A life without you seems impossible."
Biting her lip and shaking her head, Caitlin looked at him. "I have to know if you accept the fact I'm grown-up and I need love and support more than protection. Can we be partners, respecting one another's ideas and opinions? Can you let me make mistakes and learn from them? Are you sure you see me as a woman, and not that little girl who tagged along with you?"
"You ask tough questions, Ms. Chadwick." He exhaled. As he stood he pulled Caitlin up, never releasing her hands. "How can I see you as anything but a woman? You take my breath away with your warm smile, gentle laugh, and those eyes that glisten in any light. When you look at me, it's like you only see me. That's a wonderful gift." His smile wound around her heart in a loving embrace. "Loving and supporting you is easy. As for protection, is it wrong for me to keep you from harm?"
"No, but I can't handle surprises. Please tell me what you know, despite pain and confusion it may cause."
"Okay." His gaze lingered on her face and tugged at her heart. "Every time I see you, you grow more beautiful. Earlier today I couldn't keep from looking at you."
Grimacing, Caitlin said, "Do you need glasses? I had dirt marks on my face, I was wearing old clothes, and I had a bandana tied around my head."
"You were beautiful. I saw animated women who are alive and on a mission. I left because when women have a mission, we men get roped into helping." His laugh was brief. Garrett turned serious as the held Caitlin's hands. "I have never seen you this vibrant and alive. You are strong and independent, but will you let me help?"