Chapter 8 - A New Chapter
The news hit Elena like a wave of warm light. Her heart hammered against her ribs—not from low sugar, but from pure, unadulterated joy.
"You're staying?" she asked, her voice breathless.
"I’m staying," Alexander promised. He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a small black velvet box.
Elena gasped, her hand flying to her mouth.
Alexander dropped gracefully onto one knee on the garden terrace. He opened the box, revealing a breathtaking ring—a brilliant oval diamond set on a platinum band, flanked by two small, glowing sapphires that matched the color of her eyes.
"Elena," Alexander said, his voice deep and filled with emotion. "When I jumped over that counter six months ago, I thought I was just saving a life. I had no idea you were going to save mine. You showed me what true courage, dignity, and grace look like. I don't ever want to face another day without you by my side."
He looked up at her, his heart in his eyes. "Will you marry me?"
Tears of pure happiness spilled over Elena’s lashes. She didn't hesitate for a single second.
"Yes!" she cried softly, dropping to her knees in front of him and throwing her arms around his neck. "Yes, Alexander! A thousand times yes!"
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He wrapped his arms tightly around her, holding her close as he slid the ring onto her finger. When he pulled back, he cupped her face and pulled her into a deep, tender kiss beneath the starlit sky.
For the first time in her life, Elena felt completely safe, deeply cherished, and profoundly loved.
