Chapter 9 - The Question
As the autumn leaves turned brilliant shades of red and gold across the estate, Dominic decided it was time to close the circle that had been broken five years prior.
He organized a quiet dinner on the back terrace of the estate. The table was lit by candles, and the sound of classical music drifted softly from the house. Noah and Lily were upstairs with a trusted nanny, sleeping soundly after a long day of building leaf piles.
Clara wore a beautiful emerald green dress, her hair styled elegantly, looking every bit the radiant woman Dominic had fallen in love with in their youth.
Dominic stood up from the table, walking around to her side. He reached into his vest pocket, but he didn't pull out the silver pocket watch. He pulled out a small, black velvet box.
He dropped to one knee, looking up into the eyes of the woman who had survived the storm to bring his children back to him.
"Clara, five years ago, a lie tore us apart before I could ask you the only question that mattered," Dominic said, his voice thick with emotion. "I spent five years in the dark, but you brought the light back into my life. I don't want another day to pass without you carrying my name properly. Will you marry me?"
May you like
Clara’s eyes filled with joyful tears. She didn't hesitate. She threw her arms around his neck, pulling him up into a deep, passionate kiss.
"Yes, Dominic," she whispered against his lips. "A thousand times, yes."
