Chapter 38 - A Promise Amidst the City
Later that evening, long after the noise and chaotic energy of the grand reception had faded, we took a quiet, secluded walk along the winding promenade bordering the city’s main river. The vibrant, colorful lights of the towering skyscrapers reflected beautifully upon the gently rippling surface of the dark water. The night air was brisk, carrying the faint, metallic scent of the sprawling metropolis we called home.
Suddenly, Liam stopped walking. He turned to face me and, without any elaborate fanfare, smoothly retrieved a small, dark velvet box from the inner pocket of his heavy wool overcoat. He did not drop to one knee like a character in a cliché romantic movie. Instead, he stood tall, meeting my gaze as a true, unwavering equal.
"I never want to be the man who merely protects you, because we both know you don't need a savior," Liam said, his voice deep and vibrating with absolute sincerity. "I want to be the man who stands shoulder-to-shoulder with you in the trenches. I want to share every hard-fought empire, and every quiet moment of peace, with you. Will you marry me?"
