Chapter 9 - The Question on the Terrace
"Then what do you need, Mr. Vance?" I whispered, looking into his eyes.
Dominic didn't answer with words. He took my hand and led me through the private rear exit to where his car was waiting.
We drove to the top of the Vance tower on Lake Shore Drive.
The penthouse terrace looked out over the infinite expanse of Lake Michigan, where the midnight water mirrored the glittering constellation of the Chicago skyline. The city was calm, peaceful, breathing under a blanket of summer stars.
A private dinner for two was set on the marble terrace: braised short ribs, wild mushroom risotto, and two cups of black coffee.
I laughed, tears shimmering in my eyes. "You remembered."
"I remember every single word you’ve ever said to me," Dominic murmured, stepping behind me and resting his hands gently on my waist.
We ate in the quiet warmth of the breeze, talking about our childhoods, about the burdens of leadership, and about the quiet future we both wanted to build. The ruthless boss of Chicago had vanished; in his place was a man of fierce honor, deep loyalty, and an unshakeable love.
As the clock struck midnight, Dominic stood and held out his hand.
I took it, stepping into the center of the terrace.
Dominic sank onto one knee.
From his pocket, he pulled a velvet box and opened it, revealing a flawless, brilliant-cut emerald ring surrounded by a band of black diamonds—a reflection of strength, beauty, and unbreakable resolve.
"Daisy Bennett," Dominic said, his voice deep, gravelly, and trembling with an emotion he had never shown to another living soul. "You walked into my life, dropped a fork, and told me expensive and good weren't the same thing. You taught me that power means nothing if you have nobody to protect, and that respect isn't demanded—it's earned. I don't want to run this city without you. Marry me."
My hands flew to my mouth. Tears of pure, overwhelming joy streamed down my cheeks.
May you like
"Yes," I choked out, throwing my arms around his neck. "A thousand times, yes."
Dominic rose, lifting me off the ground and spinning me beneath the stars as his mouth found mine in a deep, passionate promise that sealed our lives together forever.
