Chapter 13 - The Proposal Reimagined
Spring returned to New York, bringing warm breezes and blooming cherry blossoms.
Ethan and Claire had quietly resumed their relationship, building it on a foundation of mutual respect, brutal honesty, and a shared devotion to their daughters. There were no secrets, no power struggles, and no ultimatums.
On a quiet Sunday morning, Ethan took Claire and the girls to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The girls ran ahead on the grass, chasing butterflies in their matching yellow sundresses, while Ethan and Claire walked hand-in-hand behind them.
Ethan stopped under a massive, blooming cherry blossom tree. He turned to Claire, his dark eyes filled with absolute, unwavering love.
"Claire," Ethan said softly, taking both of her hands in his.
Claire stopped, her breath catching as she saw the serious, tender look on his face.
"Five years ago, I asked you to marry me because it made sense for my image," Ethan admitted, his voice raw with emotion. "I offered you a contract, not a partnership. But today, I stand before you as a man who knows that you are the air in my lungs and the center of my universe."
Ethan slowly dropped down onto one knee in the soft grass. He pulled a small velvet box from his jacket, revealing a breathtaking, elegant diamond ring.
"Will you marry me again, Claire?" Ethan asked, tears shining in his eyes. "Not as my dependent, but as my equal, my partner, and the love of my life?"
May you like
Claire let out a joyful, tearful laugh, nodding her head vigorously. "Yes, Ethan. Yes."
Ethan slipped the ring onto her finger and stood up, pulling her into a passionate, breathtaking kiss as their three daughters giggled and ran around their legs.
