“I wanted this to be a bit more poetic,” he said awkwardly. “But I didn’t really plan it. So, I guess I’ll just go for it.”
Olivia had never been more confused in all her life. She shook her head, trying to figure out what Henry was talking about.
Then he slipped off his chair and went down on one knee. Olivia gasped, her breath fleeing her lungs in that one instant. She felt dizzy as she looked down on the man she loved, knowing what was coming but still completely surprised.
How did I get so lucky?
“Olivia, my love,” Henry said, his voice shaking a little. “I knew from the first moment I saw you that I could never let you go. I struggled against the truth because I could not accept that a beautiful, talented, and intelligent woman such as yourself could really be mine.”
“Henry,” Olivia murmured, shaking her head.
Henry put one hand into his pocket and pulled out a velvet box. Olivia’s heart pounded so hard that she saw black spots at the edges of her vision.
“I adore you, my love,” Henry said, opening the box. Nestled inside on a bed of white satin was the most beautiful diamond ring Olivia had ever seen. The gold scrollwork twisted itself into the shape of a panther that was studded with perfectly cut diamonds.
“Will you marry me, Olivia?” Henry asked.
Olivia looked into his eyes. She couldn’t believe she saw doubt there.
Surely, he knows, by now, what my answer will be?
From the way his hands shook just a little, Olivia knew he wasn’t sure at all.
“Yes, Henry,” she whispered. “Of course, yes!”
Olivia slipped to the ground, throwing her arms around Henry’s neck. They kissed, twisting together so completely that Henry almost dropped the ring.
Olivia wriggled back a little so Henry could put the ring on her finger. Jennifer sobbed softly, grabbing a napkin to wipe her eye with. Maureen clapped loudly, laughing out loud.
“Congratulations,” Nicholas said, smiling with real joy.
“About fucking time,” Evelyn muttered.
Olivia couldn’t speak. She lunged into Henry’s arms again, kissing him with abandon. His arms went around her waist, pulling her against him. Olivia’s only thought at that moment was that she couldn’t wait to get him alone.
“Oh, I have to make some calls!” Jennifer cried. “I’ll have to inform the heads of the other clans, and the cousins, and the aunts from my side.”
“We’ll be having it here, then?” Nicholas asked, gesturing at the gardens. “I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ll get the landscapers in. Who will organize the catering and the decorations? Seating arrangements?”
“I’m all over it,” Evelyn said. “Just give me your budget, and I’ll take care of it.”
“Budget?” Nicholas asked, mystified. “I’m not familiar with the word. Simply send me the bill.”
“Time frame?” Jennifer asked. “Soon, I hope?”
“A week should be enough,” Nicholas said. Evelyn nodded.
“It’s a push, but I can manage that.”
“It’s settled!” Maureen announced. “Wedding in a week's time!”
Henry and Olivia looked at each other, eyes wide with panic.
“A week!” they gasped in perfect unison.