Chapter 10 - The Sunset Over the BaySix months later.
The ocean breeze blew softly across the private terrace of a breathtaking waterfront estate in Harbor Point. The sky was painted in brilliant shades of gold, pink, and lavender as the sun dipped below the horizon of the Pacific Ocean.
Laughter echoed from the lawn, where nine-year-old Bram was running with a newly adopted golden retriever puppy, chasing frisbees near the water’s edge.
On the terrace, Rowan stood near the stone railing, holding a glass of sparkling cider. He wore a simple linen shirt, looking relaxed, happy, and deeply at peace.
Soft footsteps sounded behind him. Warm arms wrapped around his waist, and Maris rested her head against his back.
Rowan turned in her arms, pulling her close against his chest. Maris looked radiant—her dark hair catching the golden evening light, her face free from the heavy burdens of corporate stress.
“Bram loves the new house,” Maris murmured softly, looking out at the boy playing on the lawn. “He told me this morning that this is the best place in the world.”
“It is,” Rowan smiled, kissing her forehead gently. “Because you’re here.”
Maris looked up into his warm brown eyes—the same kind, honest eyes that had comforted her in a dark garage eighteen years ago. She reached up, her hand gently resting against his jaw.
“Eighteen years ago, I thought I was just lucky that a stranger stopped to help me in the rain,” Maris whispered, her voice filled with profound love. “I didn't realize fate was saving you for me.”
Rowan smiled, slipping his hand into his pocket and pulling out a small velvet box. He opened it, revealing a stunning, elegant diamond ring that caught the fading sunlight.
Maris gasped softly, her hands flying to her mouth as tears filled her eyes.
Rowan dropped down on one knee on the terrace, holding the ring up to her.
“Maris Ellen,” Rowan said, his voice rich with deep, eternal devotion. “You gave me a second chance when I was lost in the dark. You gave my son a home, and you gave my heart a purpose. Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”
Maris sobbed with pure joy, dropping to her knees right in front of him and throwing her arms tightly around his neck.
“Yes! Yes, Rowan! A thousand times yes!” she cried, kissing him passionately under the setting sun.
Down on the lawn, Bram saw them and cheered loudly, holding up his puppy in celebration.
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Rowan pulled Maris close, holding her as the ocean waves crashed gently against the shore. The rainstorms of their past were finally gone, replaced by a bright, endless future together.
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