Chapter 10 - Happily Ever After
The sun was setting over the city skyline, casting a golden hue across the spacious balcony of Elizabeth and Julian’s home.
Elizabeth stood leaning against the railing, a cup of herbal tea in her hands, watching the lights of the city twinkle to life. The wind caught her hair, carrying the faint, sweet scent of jasmine from the garden boxes Julian had built on the terrace.
Footsteps echoed softly behind her, and a pair of strong, comforting arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her back against a warm chest. Julian rested his chin gently on her shoulder, kissing her cheek.
“What are you thinking about, love?” Julian murmured, smiling against her skin.
Elizabeth turned in his arms, wrapping her hands around his neck. She smiled, thinking of the old, yellowed garment bag, the rotting dress, the hotel suite, and the terrifying phone call that had marked the end of her old life.
“I was just thinking about how grateful I am for a very bad wedding dress,” Elizabeth laughed softly.
Julian raised an eyebrow, amused. “Oh? Is that our anniversary present theme this year? Antique textiles?”
“Never,” Elizabeth chuckled, pressing her forehead against his. “Just celebrating the day I finally chose myself.”
Julian’s eyes softened with deep, abiding love. He reached into his pocket, pulling out a small velvet box—not an engagement ring born of obligation or family tradition, but a promise made freely, equally, and with pure joy.
“Well,” Julian whispered, opening the box to reveal a stunning, custom sapphire ring that caught the evening light. “If we’re celebrating choosing each other... how do you feel about planning a wedding where the only rule is that we do whatever makes us happy?”
May you like
Elizabeth looked into his eyes—clear, steadfast, and entirely her own—and smiled a brilliant, radiant smile.
“I’d love that,” she whispered, and kissed him under the golden evening sky.
