Chapter 103

I stared at the ring on my finger, feeling overwhelmed with emotions. I had dreamed of this moment a thousand times before, but it was far more beautiful and magical than I could have ever imagined.

“Do you like it? I could have given you a much more beautiful ring. However, I got too excited and bought this one instead because I was at a loss as to which design you would like.”

“You're kidding, right? This ring is so gorgeous! Why wouldn’t I like it?”

Crimson's face lit up at my words. At that moment, he looked so damn cute that I couldn't resist pinching his cheeks.

“I’m glad you like it. I was a bit hesitant to give it at first because the design is simple and not as extravagant as some of the other rings out there.”

“It’s perfect.”

He pulled me into a tight hug, his arms wrapped around me protectively. “I love you so much, and I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you. I'll wait for you until you're ready to marry me.”

I hugged him back, knowing that this moment would forever be etched in my memory as one of the happiest moments of my life.

Crimson pulled away. “Shall we tell your family about the good news?”

I took his hand in response and led the way to the stone path connecting to the hotel door.

“I know they will be shocked, but I believe they will understand.”

“I’m nervous,” Crimson mumbled under his breath.

Laughter escaped my lips.

“Don't laugh at me, Elizabeth.” He pouted, crossing his arms.

I stopped walking to frame his cheeks. "I was just teasing, but seriously, relax. It's not like you're facing a firing squad; you're just meeting my family.”

“How could I not calm down when I'm meeting your whole family for the first time?”

“They are good people. They won't harm you… But how did you know about my family?

"From a private investigator. My main intention was to confirm whether or not you were truly married. The report I received was very detailed. That's how I learned about your mother and your three brothers. However, I didn't know how they survived; I thought they all died in a plane crash.”

“It's a long story. I'll tell you in the future.”

We returned to the banquet hall.

“Everyone, we have something important to share,” Crimson began, takong everyone's attention.. He stepped forward and said, “Elizabeth and I are engaged.”

Gasps and exclamations filled the room as everyone present processed the news.

When everyone recovered from the shock, hugs were exchanged, congratulations were given, and tears were shed.

Mom and Dad came to us, both wearing wide smiles.

“Congratulations to the two of you.” Mom hugged Crimson as if he were one of her sons.

Dad patted Crimson on the back. “We couldn't be more thrilled for you both. You make a beautiful couple,” he added, his voice full of warmth.

“I'm so happy for you, sweetheart.” Mom hugged me, wiping away the tears in her eyes. You deserve all the love and happiness in the world.”

Henry, Louis, and David—my three brothers—approached my future husband, shaking his hand. “Welcome to the family, brother.”

Crimson looked overwhelmed by the warmth and acceptance from my family.

“Don't you ever hurt my sister, or else you'll have the three of us to answer to," Louis said with a grin, though the seriousness in his eyes was clear.

Henry put a hand on Crimson's shoulder and said, "Just treat her right, and we won't have any problems."

Crimson chuckled nervously. “I wouldn't dream of it. I promise to always take care of her and love her with all my heart.”

“Good. Keep your promises, and you'll always have a place in our family,” David added.

“Mommy, happy birthday!” Cleo exclaimed as she ran toward me. She jumped into my arms.

"Thank you, sweetie," I whispered, planting a kiss on her forehead. "Mommy's glad that it's her birthday."

Cleo giggled and nuzzled closer to me, wrapping her arms tightly around my neck. It was moments like these that made occasions like this even more special.

She pulled back and looked up at me with her big, green eyes. "I have a surprise for you!" she said excitedly.

"Well, what is it?" I asked, playing along.

My daughter took my hand and led me across the banquet hall to the long table filled with gifts. Crimson quietly followed behind us with a smile on his face.

When we reached the table, Cleo let go of my hand and ran over to the end of the table, grabbing a small box wrapped in shiny silver paper. She brought it over to me.

"This is my gift to you, Mommy!" she exclaimed.

I gently took the box and carefully began to unwrap it. Inside was a beautiful necklace, with a heart pendant. It was made of delicate silver and adorned with sparkling gems. It was absolutely stunning.

"Oh, sweetie, this is beautiful!" I exclaimed. "Thank you. This is the best birthday gift ever."

—

It was nearing 1 in the morning when my birthday party ended. The celebration was a huge success, and everyone enjoyed the party.

Crimson and I lay on the bed. Cleo slept soundly between us, her small form nestled between our bodies.

I gazed down at my daughter, her long lashes resting delicately against her cheeks. She looked so peaceful in her slumber, her chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm. I couldn't help but feel a swell of love in my chest as I watched her sleep, her innocent face a picture of pure serenity.

"Do you want to go on a date tomorrow? Just the three of us?"

I raised an eyebrow in surprise. "What do you have in mind?"

He thought for a moment before suggesting, "How about a picnic in the park? We can pack some snacks, and maybe even some wine. It'll be a nice way to spend the day together."

"That sounds perfect. Cleo will love running around and playing in the open space.”

I closed my eyes and let myself relax into the moment, the stresses of the day melting away. As I drifted off to sleep, I knew that there was nowhere else I would rather be than right here, with Crimson and Cleo by my side.