Chapter 10 - The Lantern's New Light
One year later.
The North End of Boston smelled of fresh espresso, roasted cinnamon, and warm sugar.
Hayes & Cole Bakery occupied a prime corner on Hanover Street, its large glass windows glowing with soft yellow light as a steady line of customers wrapped around the block.
Inside, Penny stood behind the marble counter, wearing a clean linen apron over a gorgeous plum-colored dress that hugged her broad hips and magnificent curves. She was laughing as she boxed up a dozen fresh cannolis for a regular customer.
She was happy. She was healthy. Her mother lived in a high-end private residence just ten minutes away, fully cared for and thriving.
The front door chimed.
The chatter in the bakery didn't stop, but a subtle hush washed over the room as Matthew Cole walked in.
He wore a tailored navy suit—completely free of whiskey stains—and his dark eyes found Penny instantly behind the counter.
Liam Cross followed him, carrying two large boxes of baking supplies, setting them quietly in the back kitchen.
Matthew walked up to the counter, leaning over the marble top.
"How's the birthday girl?" Matthew asked softly, his voice rich and deep.
Penny smiled, leaning across the counter to kiss his cheek. "Busy. We sold out of the lemon tarts in twenty minutes."
"Good," Matthew said. "Because at six o'clock, this shop is closing."
Penny raised an eyebrow, placing her hands on her broad hips. "Oh really? And who decided that?"
"I did," Matthew said, pulling a small black velvet box from his pocket and placing it on the marble counter between them. "Because exactly one year ago tonight, a curvy, brilliant waitress poked me in the chest and ruined my suit."
Penny looked down at the box, her heart leaping into her throat.
Matthew opened the velvet lid, revealing a stunning sapphire ring surrounded by delicate diamonds that caught the afternoon sunlight.
"Matthew..." Penny whispered, tears of joy sparkling in her hazel eyes.
Matthew reached across the counter, taking her hand, his fingers clasping hers firmly.
"You poked me in the chest, Penny Hayes," Matthew said softly, his dark eyes filled with fierce, eternal devotion. "And you've been living in my heart ever since. Will you marry me?"
Penny looked at the man who had carried her through gunfire, protected her mother, and cherished every single inch of who she was.
She didn't hesitate.
"Only if you promise to stay out of my way in the kitchen," Penny laughed, tears of happiness spilling down her cheeks.
"Promised," Matthew smiled.
May you like
He pulled her across the counter into a deep, passionate kiss as the entire bakery erupted into cheers and applause.
The waitress who had spilled whiskey on Boston’s most feared crime boss had finally found her home—and a love that no storm could ever tear down.
