Chapter 14 - THE PROPOSAL AT THE ORPHEUM CROWN
Two years after the blackout, the Orpheum Crown Hotel reopened its grand ballroom after a major renovation.
The event was a charity gala supporting emergency workers and hospitality employees.
Avery attended as the founder of The Open Door Initiative.
Elias stood beside her.
He wore a black tuxedo.
She wore a deep-blue gown.
Milo remained at home with June.
The ballroom glittered beneath new chandeliers.
Avery looked around.
“So many memories.”
Elias smiled faintly.
“Some I'd rather forget.”
She took his hand.
“Some changed our lives.”
He nodded.
“Yes.”
After dinner, Elias invited Avery onto the balcony.
Chicago stretched beneath them.
The night air was cool.
Avery leaned against the railing.
“What's going on?”
Elias looked nervous.
That alone made her smile.
“Elias?”
He took a breath.
“Two years ago, you slipped a note into my pocket.”
Avery laughed softly.
“I remember.”
He smiled.
“You saved my life.”
She shook her head.
“I helped.”
He continued.
“You also changed it.”
Her eyes filled.
Elias reached into his jacket.
Avery stared.
A small velvet box.
He opened it.
Inside was a diamond ring.
Simple.
Elegant.
Beautiful.
“Avery Sloan.”
She covered her mouth.
Elias continued.
“I can't promise you a life without danger.”
His voice trembled.
“But I can promise honesty.”
“Respect.”
“And a love that never asks you to become smaller.”
Tears slipped down her cheeks.
He smiled.
“Will you marry me?”
Avery laughed through her tears.
“Yes.”
Elias closed his eyes.
“Yes?”
She nodded.
“Yes, Elias.”
He slipped the ring onto her finger.
Then kissed her.
May you like
Below them, the ballroom continued celebrating.
But for Avery, the world had become wonderfully quiet.
