Chapter 10 - The Forever Ride
Tristan sank slowly onto one knee.
He pulled out a small, black velvet box, opening it to reveal a breathtaking, flawless emerald-cut diamond ring, surrounded by a delicate band of smaller diamonds that sparkled like the Manhattan rain.
"Bianca Mendes," Tristan said, his voice thick with emotion, his eyes shining with absolute certainty. "Six months ago, you climbed into my car by mistake, and you ended up saving my life in more ways than you will ever know. You showed me what it means to love, to trust, and to be truly happy. I don't want to spend another day of my life without you by my side. Will you do me the honor of marrying me?"
Tears of pure, unadulterated happiness streamed down Bianca’s cheeks. She didn't hesitate for a single second.
"Yes," she sobbed, throwing herself into his arms, sending them both laughing onto the clean, wooden floor of their new home. "Yes, Tristan! A million times, yes!"
He slipped the ring onto her finger, its weight a beautiful, permanent promise of their future. He held her close, his heart beating strong and steady against her chest.
They spent the rest of the afternoon exploring their new home, planning their future, and laughing about the improbable, beautiful twist of fate that had brought them together.
A year later, the historic St. Patrick’s Cathedral was filled with the sound of beautiful organ music.
Bianca walked down the aisle in a stunning, ivory lace gown, her arm linked with Eleanor’s, who insisted on walking her down the aisle in place of her late father.
At the altar stood Tristan, looking more handsome than he ever had, his eyes locked onto his bride with a fierce, tearful devotion.
Their vows were simple, heartfelt, and witnessed by their closest friends, family, and a very proud Dominic. It was a celebration of survival, of love overcoming the darkest shadows, and of two entirely different worlds finding a perfect, harmonious orbit.
As they walked out of the cathedral as husband and wife, a crowd of reporters and well-wishers cheered.
Waiting at the curb was their getaway vehicle—not a vintage carriage, nor a flashy sports car, but a sleek, beautifully polished black SUV.
Tristan opened the back door, a brilliant, dashing smile on his face.
"After you, Mrs. Bellamy," he said, bowing slightly.
Bianca laughed, her eyes sparkling with pure joy as she climbed inside. The leather was incredibly soft, smelling of cedar, amber, and a love that would last a lifetime.
Tristan climbed in beside her, pulling her into his arms as the door clicked shut, shutting out the noise of the world.
"Are you tired, my love?" he whispered, his lips brushing her temple.
May you like
"Not at all," Bianca smiled, looking at the ring on her finger, then into the beautiful, dark eyes of her husband. "For the first time in my life, Tristan... I am wide awake."
The SUV pulled away from the curb, blending into the glittering lights of Manhattan, carrying them forward into their beautiful, endless tomorrow.
