Chapter 6 - The True Family
One year later.
The grand ballroom of the Callaway estate was filled with light once again. But this time, there were no expensive ice sculptures, no snobbish socialites, and no cameras.
Instead, the room was filled with children laughing, the smell of fresh popcorn, and the chaotic joy of a real three-year-old’s birthday party—this time, it was Lily's fourth. The guests were the estate staff, their families, and local children from the neighborhood.
Lily, wearing a brand-new yellow dress, was running around the polished marble floor, chasing a trail of bubbles.
Grace stood near the French doors, watching her daughter with a peaceful smile. She looked stunning in a simple, elegant dark blue dress. Her life had transformed completely over the past year. As the director of the foundation, she had helped hundreds of families in need, finding a purpose she never knew she had.
A pair of strong arms wrapped around her waist from behind, and a warm chin rested on her shoulder.
"She looks happy," Nathaniel whispered, his voice sending a pleasant shiver down her spine.
"She is happy," Grace said, turning in his embrace to face him. She looped her arms around his neck, looking up into the eyes of the man who had changed everything. "We both are."
Nathaniel smiled, his eyes full of a deep, enduring warmth. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, velvet box.
Grace’s breath hitched.
"Grace," Nathaniel said, his voice thick with emotion. "One year ago, this room was a place of anger and hurt. But you and Lily brought life, warmth, and love into this house, and into my heart. I don't want to live another day without you. Will you marry me, Grace? Will you let me be a father to Lily, and your husband?"
Tears of joy spilled down Grace’s cheeks. She didn't need to think. She didn't need to worry about distance or safety anymore, because she knew that with Nathaniel, she was home.
"Yes," she whispered, kissing him deeply as the crowd of staff and friends erupted into cheers.
Lily came running over, clutching her perfectly restored stuffed bunny in one hand. She squeezed herself between them, hugging their legs.
"Are we a family now?" Lily asked, looking up with her big, serious brown eyes.
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Nathaniel knelt down, picking Lily up in his arms and holding Grace close with the other.
"Yes, sweetheart," Nathaniel said, his voice full of pride. "We are a family. Forever."
