Chapter 8 - The Confrontation at the Meridian Estate
With the shadow of the past permanently lifted, life at the Riverdale estate began to flourish.
James restructured Carter Meridian, transforming it from a cold investment corporation into a major funder of public healthcare systems, pediatric care, and art conservation programs. He appointed Rebecca as the head of the new Morgan-Carter Foundation for the Arts, giving her full freedom to restore historical works and provide scholarships for underprivileged young artists.
One afternoon, James brought Lily to the yard behind the main house, where a surprise was waiting for her.
"Close your eyes, Lily bug," James said, lifting her onto his shoulders.
"Are they closed?" Lily giggled, covering her eyes with her small hands. "No peeking?"
"No peeking!"
James walked out onto the lawn, where Rebecca stood holding a small golden retriever puppy with a bright red bow around its neck.
"Okay, open them!"
Lily opened her eyes and gasped so loudly she nearly lost her teddy bear. "A PUPPY?!"
She slid down James's arm and tumbled onto the grass, where the little golden retriever immediately waddled over and began licking her face. Lily collapsed into fits of uncontrollable giggles.
"His name is Barnaby Junior!" Lily declared, hugging the dog tightly.
Rebecca walked up to James, wrapping her arms around his waist as they watched their daughter play. "You're spoiling her, Mr. Carter."
"I have five years of lost time to make up for," James smiled, kissing the top of her head. "And besides... I have one more surprise."
He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a small velvet box.
Rebecca’s breath caught in her throat.
James dropped to one knee on the soft grass, the afternoon sun casting a golden glow over his face.
"Rebecca," James said, opening the box to reveal a stunning vintage ring featuring an emerald surrounded by delicate diamonds—a ring styled after antique art pieces she loved. "Five years ago, I lost the chance to make you my wife. I spent every day since wondering what my life was missing. Now I know. You and Lily are my whole world."
Tears streamed down Rebecca’s cheeks as she smiled radiantly. "James..."
"Will you marry me, Becca?" James asked softly. "Will you let me love you for the rest of our lives?"
Before Rebecca could answer, Lily ran over, holding her puppy. "Say yes, Mommy! Say yes so we can have cake!"
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Rebecca laughed through her tears, dropping to her knees beside James and throwing her arms around his neck. "Yes! Yes, a thousand times yes!"
James pulled her close, kissing her deeply as Lily and the puppy circled them, barking and giggling under the clear blue sky.
