Chapter 14 - THE PROMISE BENEATH THE SILVER MOON
Damian proposed beneath a full moon.
Not in the throne room.
Not before the council.
Not during a ceremony designed to impress the old families.
He took Elara to a quiet meadow beyond the palace gardens.
Wildflowers moved in the night breeze.
The mountains rose dark against the sky.
Elara looked around.
“Why are we here?”
Damian smiled.
“Because you once told me you wanted to see the world without walls.”
She looked at him.
“I remember.”
He took her hand.
“And because I wanted to ask you something where nobody else could answer for you.”
Elara's heartbeat quickened.
Damian lowered himself onto one knee.
She gasped.
He opened a small velvet box.
Inside was a silver ring set with a pale moonstone.
“Elara.”
Tears filled her eyes.
“You don't have to—”
“I know.”
He smiled.
“That's why I'm asking.”
Elara laughed through tears.
Damian continued.
“I spent most of my life believing strength meant never needing anyone.”
He looked up.
“Then you walked into a room where everyone was afraid of me.”
She smiled.
“I was afraid too.”
“I know.”
His voice softened.
“But you stayed.”
Elara's eyes filled.
Damian took a breath.
“You taught me that power means nothing if it cannot protect freedom.”
He swallowed.
“And you taught me that love is not possession.”
Silence.
“It's a choice.”
He held up the ring.
“Elara Harrow, will you marry me?”
She stared at him.
Then whispered, “Yes.”
Damian closed his eyes.
She laughed.
“Yes, Damian.”
He stood.
Slipped the ring onto her finger.
And kissed her.
The bond between them shimmered.
Silver and amber light rose beneath the moon.
Somewhere in the forest, wolves began howling.
May you like
Not in fear.
In celebration.
