Chapter 18 - The Proposal
Clara heard his footsteps in the grass and opened her eyes. A bright, genuine smile broke across her face. She stood up and ran to him, throwing her arms around his neck.
Damiano buried his face in her dark hair, breathing her in.
"It's over," he whispered against her ear. "Renato is gone. The family is legitimate. No one will ever hunt us again."
Clara pulled back, tears welling in her amber eyes. "You promise?"
"I promise," he said. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box. He opened it, revealing a stunning, flawless diamond ring. "I lost ten years with you, Clara. I refuse to lose another day. Marry me. Let me be the husband and the father I was meant to be."
May you like
Clara gasped, covering her mouth with her hand. She didn't hesitate. "Yes. Yes, Damiano. A thousand times, yes."
He slipped the ring onto her finger and kissed her deeply, sealing a vow that was stronger than any mafia oath.
