Chapter 26 — A Question of the Heart
Chapter 26 — A Question of the Heart
Following the gala, Ethan drove Hailey not back to the estate, but up to the scenic overlook at Sunset Ridge—the exact spot where they had shared their first honest conversation two years ago.
The city lights twinkled far below like a vast galaxy of fallen stars. The autumn breeze was cool, and Ethan wrapped his tailored wool coat gently around Hailey’s shoulders.
"Remember this place?" Ethan asked softly, standing close behind her as they looked out over the glittering horizon.
"How could I?" Hailey smiled, leaning back into his embrace. "You told me then that healing wasn't about forgetting the scars, but learning to wear them like armor."
Ethan took a slow breath, his heart beating noticeably faster against her back. He reached into his coat pocket, pulling out a small velvet box.
Hailey turned slowly in his arms, her breath catching in her throat.
Ethan dropped gracefully to one knee on the damp grass, looking up at her with eyes full of a lifetime of devotion.
"Hailey Robertson," Ethan’s voice trembled slightly with emotion. "You are the strongest, most brilliant, most extraordinary woman I have ever known. You took your broken pieces and built an empire of love. Will you let me walk by your side—not as a savior, but as your partner, your equal, and your forever?"
May you like
Tears spilled over Hailey’s eyelashes, but her smile was radiant and blinding.
"Yes," she whispered, her voice breaking with joy. "Yes, Ethan, a million times yes."
