Chapter 14 - THE PROMISE BENEATH THE CHICAGO LIGHTS
Two years later, Jack proposed.
Not in a ballroom.
Not at a gala.
Not in front of wealthy guests.
He proposed in the small garden behind our home.
Noah was six.
He adored Jack.
Called him “J.”
And insisted Jack help repair every broken toy he found.
That afternoon, Jack asked me to walk with him.
The garden was filled with white flowers.
I smiled.
“What's going on?”
He laughed nervously.
“Something important.”
Then he lowered himself onto one knee.
My breath caught.
“Jack.”
He opened a small velvet box.
Inside was a simple diamond ring.
“Lily Bennett.”
My eyes filled.
“The first time I met you, you were standing in a room full of powerful men, trying to make yourself invisible.”
He swallowed.
“But I saw someone who was stronger than anyone at that table.”
Tears rolled down my cheeks.
Jack continued.
“You taught me that love isn't about fixing someone.”
“It's about seeing them.”
“Respecting them.”
“And choosing them exactly as they are.”
He smiled.
“Will you marry me?”
I laughed through tears.
“Yes.”
Jack's eyes widened.
“Really?”
I nodded.
“Yes, Jack.”
He stood.
I threw my arms around him.
Behind us, Noah shouted.
“DOES THIS MEAN J IS MY DAD FOREVER?”
We burst out laughing.
Jack looked at him.
“If that's what you want, buddy.”
May you like
Noah grinned.
“YES!”
