Chapter 42.

Oliver’s pov.

One year later…

In the passing year, my love for Valerie had grown deeper, defying my expectations. It was as if every day brought a new layer to the bond we shared. Each morning I woke up with her nestled in my arms, I found myself falling more in love than the day before. She completed me in ways I hadn't known were missing. Her presence was a soothing melody in the symphony of my life, a melody that resonated in the quiet moments and the chaotic ones.

Valerie had spent a lifetime searching for her family, her roots. On the other hand, I had always had my own family, but it was only when she walked into my life that it truly felt complete. The emptiness that had been lurking was now replaced with a warmth that only she could provide. Loving her was easy, effortless, and profoundly fulfilling. There wasn't a single thing I could wish for that would make me happier than I already was.

Throughout the past year, I had extended an offer to Valerie to join the Martinez Corporate Group, but she had found her place at Sinclair Enterprises. It turned out to be a good thing, for her knowledge and skills had not only brought prosperity to Sinclair but had also indirectly benefited Martinez. I often found myself working directly with her father, which allowed me the pleasure of seeing Valerie in her element. Her dedication, sharp mind, and the way she handled clients with grace amazed me.

Her determination led her to learn new languages to communicate effectively with clients in their native tongues. She had a gift for making connections, and her ability to bridge cultures had not only impressed me but also my Abuelo. Her Spanish lessons had charmed him, and he couldn't help but become a fan of hers.

As the year passed, we stayed true to our promise to Eden. Tracking down Brandon had been an adventure in itself. He had relocated to Italy with his family and changed their last names to escape the shadow of Mr. Montgomery's threats. Connecting with Brandon revealed that he still carried feelings for Eden, even after all these years.

Helping Eden change her identity legally was a journey we embarked on together. We surprised her with a scholarship to the best fashion school in Italy, a heartfelt gesture to repay her for her courage. Later, we orchestrated a reunion between Eden and Brandon. It was a night filled with emotions, and we received a flood of gratitude from both of them. With their happiness came a sense of fulfillment for us; our debts were repaid in a way that meant the world to them.

Businesswise, both the Martinez and Sinclair enterprises continued to thrive. The scars of past rivalries were slowly fading as collaboration took precedence. The families were gradually healing, old wounds giving way to newfound bonds.

Valerie's aspiration for higher education led her to pursue her master's degree. I stood firmly by her side, supporting her dreams. However, this commitment to her studies also meant our time together became even more precious. So, when an opportunity for a family vacation arose, we seized it eagerly.

Our vacation had been a refreshing change of pace. Our mothers indulged in sightseeing, our fathers and grandfathers enjoyed rounds of golf, and I spent quality time with my brothers, Jasper, and Cass. Even our family dinners had improved. Though sarcastic remarks were still exchanged, they were what made our family, our family. It was something you wouldn’t be able to take away from us no matter how hard one would try.

Tonight was different, though. The family had gone their separate ways, leaving the evening open for my plans. The atmosphere was tinged with anticipation as I led Valerie away from the group. A secluded spot awaited us, the moon casting a gentle glow on the surroundings.

In the heart of the maze, under the watchful gaze of the moon and stars, I had orchestrated a scene straight from Valerie's dreams. A carpet of rose petals adorned the path, guiding us through the intricate labyrinth. Soft, warm lights played hide-and-seek between the hedges, and the air was filled with the gentle glow of scented candles.

I paid close attention to every detail, knowing that it was the little things that made her smile. The table was set with care, a spread that combined her favorite dishes and treats. Her adoration for my spaghetti bolognese was a recent discovery, and I had made sure it was the centerpiece of our intimate dinner. Macarons and her preferred cake nestled among the culinary delights, and a bottle of her favorite wine stood proudly, waiting to be uncorked.

As she stepped into the transformed maze, her gasp of astonishment was music to my ears. Her eyes sparkled with wonder, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment in having made her so happy. Guiding her to her seat, I was cautious with her flowing maxi dress, my heart dancing with delight as I did so.

The covered plates were unveiled, revealing the carefully crafted feast beneath. Her delight was palpable, and her enthusiasm infectious. "This is so perfect!" she exclaimed, her excitement bubbling over. "I have no idea what I did to deserve you."

A smile tugged at the corners of my lips as I leaned in, capturing her hand and placing a soft kiss on her knuckles. "Trust me, Valerie, the honor is all mine. Consider this my way of saying thank you for your invaluable help with the Greek client."

We indulged in the delectable meal, savoring each bite as our conversation danced between lighthearted laughter and heartfelt confessions. With dinner complete, we embarked on a stroll through the maze, Valerie leading the way with a sense of childlike wonder.

Her gaze lingered on a beautifully sculpted fountain, a focal point amidst the maze's enchanting beauty. I held back slightly, allowing her a moment to appreciate the scene. This was my cue, the perfect opportunity to unveil what I had been carrying.

As she began to move towards the fountain, I purposely slowed my steps, allowing a few strides to separate us. The moon's soft glow highlighted her silhouette, casting a mesmerizing aura around her.

Taking a deep breath, I retrieved the velvety box from my pocket. The moonlit night seemed to hold its breath as I got down on one knee, my heart pounding in my chest. With trembling fingers, I opened the box, inside was Valerie’s old engagement ring. I tricked her by telling her I’d get it clean but in reality, I had made some small changes. I paid close attention when she spoke of her dream ring. When she was tipsy of course she then said that she loved the ring I gave her but that information was all I needed to present her with her true dream ring right now.

"Valerie," I called out nervously as she continued walking ahead, her steps faltering as she registered my absence by her side.

"Hm?" She turned towards me, her eyes catching the glint of the amber lights, her curiosity piqued by the sight of the box in my hand. "Oliver?"

"Sweetheart, I know we're already married, but I want to marry you again," I confessed, my voice carrying the depth of my emotions. "Every day with you feels like a new chapter of a love story I can't get enough of. My love for you knows no bounds, and it continues to grow with every beat of my heart. Valerie Sinclair Martinez, will you do me the honor of marrying me – again?"

Her reaction was priceless, a mixture of shock, joy, and anticipation. "Oh my god, Oliver, yes!" she exclaimed, her hand extended towards me, a promise waiting to be sealed.

Carefully, I slid the ring onto her finger, the simple yet meaningful act making my heart swell. Rising to my feet, I couldn't resist capturing her lips with mine, a kiss that held the weight of all my feelings for her.

"Really?" I asked, slightly surprised by her enthusiasm.

Valerie met my gaze, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of happiness and love. "Yeah, you have no idea how many times I've thought about this," she admitted, her fingers tracing a path along my jawline. "Our first wedding was amazing, a dream come true. But this time, I want something more intimate, surrounded only by our family, and our closest friends, Nicole and Sheila. I want a wedding where love and support are present from our families."

I held her close, absorbing her words and the depth of her desires. "That's exactly what I want too," I whispered, my arms securely around her as I lifted her in a playful embrace.

With a radiant smile, she brushed her lips against mine. "I love you, Oliver."

"I love you more, Valerie," I declared, my voice firm with conviction as I carried her, bridal style, towards a future that was unfolding most beautifully.

“I love you more, Mr. Oliver Martinez.” Valerie wrapped her arms around me and leaned over to kiss me. “Now let’s finalize our engagement and fuck me into oblivion,” she whispered and kissed the spot under my ear.