Chapter 8 - The Proposal
A year later, on the anniversary of the day Leo was rescued from the wall, Julian organized a private evening in the estate's garden.
There were no media crews, no corporate executives, and no grand speeches—just warm lantern lights strung through the rose bushes, soft violin music playing in the background, and the sound of the lake breeze.
After a quiet dinner, Leo ran off to play with his dog near the fountain, leaving Julian and Hannah walking along the stone path.
"Fourteen months ago, I was sweeping plaster off the kitchen floors," Hannah said softly, looking up at the illuminated mansion. "I never dreamed my life could look like this."
Julian stopped walking, turning to face her under the canopy of white roses. He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a small velvet box.
"Fourteen months ago, you gave me back my reason to live, Hannah," Julian said, his voice filled with deep, undeniable emotion. "You brought light into a house that was consumed by lies. You saved my son, and you saved me."
He dropped to one knee on the garden path, opening the box to reveal a flawless, cushion-cut diamond ring that shimmered under the lantern light.
"Hannah Carver," Julian said clearly. "Will you do us the honor of becoming my wife and making our family whole?"
Hannah covered her mouth with both hands, tears of joy welling in her eyes.
Before she could speak, Leo came running down the path, holding a small bunch of freshly picked white roses. "Say yes, Hannah! Say yes!"
Hannah laughed through her tears, dropping to her knees to hug Leo before looking up at Julian.
May you like
"Yes, Julian! Yes!" she cried out softly.
Julian stood up, pulling Hannah into his arms and kissing her tenderly while Leo cheered, wrapping his arms around both of their legs.
