I just wasn't able to say it before now.' He blinked. 'You needed to knee a man in the groin before you could tell me you loved me?' 'No!' Then she thought about his words. 'Well, yes, in a way. I've always been so fearful that you would run my life. But I've learned that having you with me doesn't mean that I can't take care of myself as well.' 'You certainly made short work of Eversleigh.' Her chin lifted a notch and she allowed herself a satisfied smile. 'Yes, I did, didn't I? And do you know, but I think I couldn't have done it without you.' 'Victoria, you did this all on your own. I wasn't even present.' 'Yes, you were.' She picked up his hand and placed it over her heart.