Chapter 9 - A New Beginning
Three months later.
Spring had arrived in Lake Geneva. The icy lake had melted into a shimmering expanse of blue water, and the grounds of the Romano estate were blooming with white lilies and red roses.
The mansion, once known as a place of terror and dark secrets, was now bustling with activity. Dozens of rescued dogs from local shelters roamed the vast, fenced outer pastures of the estate, receiving care and rehabilitation before being placed in loving homes.
A grand lawn party was taking place on the back terrace. Staff members, local charity organizers, and even former business associates who had embraced Gabriel’s new legal direction were laughing and drinking champagne under the warm May sun.
Evelyn stood on the wooden deck overlooking the lake, wearing an elegant light green sundress. She wasn't wearing an apron, and she was no longer called a maid. She was the Director of the Romano Animal Sanctuary.
Titan ran across the green grass, his coat shiny and black, chasing a tennis ball thrown by a group of delighted children. There was no growl, no fear, no hostility left in the dog. He was whole again.
Gabriel walked up behind Evelyn, wrapping his arms around her waist and resting his chin on her shoulder.
"You're thinking again," Gabriel murmured softly into her ear.
"I'm just remembering," she said, leaning back against his broad chest. "Four months ago, I dropped a bucket of water on a dog everyone said was a killer."
"It was the best mistake anyone ever made in this house," Gabriel said, turning her around in his arms so he could look into her eyes.
He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, dark velvet box.
Evelyn’s breath hitched.
Gabriel didn't get down on one knee in front of the crowd, nor did he make a grand speech to the press. He simply opened the box, revealing a flawless emerald ring that matched the color of her eyes.
"Gabriel..." she whispered.
"This house was built on secrets, fear, and blood," Gabriel said, his voice thick with emotion. "You brought truth, warmth, and life into it. You saved Titan, but more than that... you saved me, Evelyn. I don't want to run this empire, or live another day of my life, without you by my side. Will you marry me?"
Evelyn looked from the shining ring up to the face of the man who had traded his dark crown for a chance at love.
May you like
"Yes," she whispered, her eyes brimming with happy tears. "Yes, Gabriel!"
He slipped the ring onto her finger and pulled her into a passionate kiss as the crowd on the lawn burst into cheers and applause. Down on the grass, Titan let out a loud, joyful bark, racing up the wooden stairs to join them on the deck.
