Chapter 13 - THE QUESTION WRITTEN IN HIS HANDS
Matteo proposed on a Thursday.
Exactly two years after Isla first entered his private dining room.
He invited her to The Gilded Table.
The restaurant had changed.
Curtis was gone.
New management had improved staff policies.
The service team included employees trained in accessible communication.
Isla walked down the familiar hallway.
Her heart beat faster.
Matteo stood inside the private room.
The same table.
The same low gold lamp.
The same rain-streaked window.
He smiled.
Remember this place?
She laughed.
Unfortunately.
He grinned.
You were very professional.
I was terrified.
I know.
She blinked.
You knew?
He nodded.
Your hands shook.
She smiled.
And you noticed?
I noticed everything.
He stepped closer.
Then signed:
You walked into a room where everyone expected you to fail.
Isla's eyes filled.
And you spoke to me in the language I understood.
He paused.
You didn't save me because I was powerful.
His expression softened.
You simply treated me like a person.
Then Matteo lowered himself onto one knee.
Isla gasped.
He opened a small velvet box.
Inside was a delicate diamond ring.
His hands moved carefully.
Isla Marsh.
She covered her mouth.
I love you.
Tears streamed down her cheeks.
Will you marry me?
She laughed through tears.
Then signed:
Yes.
Matteo stared.
She signed again.
Yes, you impossible man.
He laughed silently.
Then stood and kissed her.
Outside the private room, the restaurant staff applauded.
Cole appeared in the doorway.
He signed:
Finally.
Isla laughed.
May you like
Matteo smiled.
And the room that had once been designed for humiliation became the place where they chose their future.
