Chapter 9 - The Garden on the Water
That evening, Nicholas drove Hannah out to his private estate overlooking the Chesapeake Bay.
The sun was setting in brilliant hues of gold, crimson, and lavender across the water. On the cliffside overlooking the bay, Nicholas had constructed a beautiful stone terrace surrounded by blooming white roses and lavender—his mother’s favorite flowers.
They walked hand in hand along the stone path, the cool sea breeze rustling through the trees.
"I brought you here five months ago when I was recovering," Nicholas said, stopping near the edge of the stone terrace. "I told you that my life had been spent building walls to keep people out."
"I remember," Hannah said gently, leaning her head against his shoulder.
Nicholas turned to face her, taking both of her hands in his.
"The night you found me in that basement," Nicholas said, his dark eyes brimming with a deep, profound emotion, "I had given up. I was waiting for the dark to take me. But then a stranger walked in with a broken cleaning cart, a heart full of courage, and hands that refused to let me die."
He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box.
When he opened it, inside lay a stunning platinum ring set with a brilliant, clear diamond, flanked by two small, delicate purple sapphires—the color of pale sweet peas.
Nicholas looked into her eyes, his voice trembling with a vulnerability he had never shown to another living soul.
"Hannah Brooks, you saved my life, my soul, and my future. Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?"
Tears of pure happiness welled in Hannah’s eyes. She didn't hesitate for a single second.
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"Yes," she whispered, stepping into his arms. "Yes, Nicholas! Absolutely yes!"
Nicholas pulled her into a deep, passionate kiss, wrapping his arms tight around her waist as the golden light of the sunset bathed the terrace in warmth.
