“You are being secretive, and I don’t like it.”
We make our way outside, and there, in front of the large pool where Charles and I made love one day so long ago, is a group of people all waiting for us with champagne glasses in their hands.
I see Charles in the front, smiling at me.
“What’s going on? I thought we’d be showcasing the silent auction items by now?” I ask, smiling so wide my face feels like it might break.
“Looks like there’s been a change of plans, Raven.” With a wink, Asher steps off to the side.
Charles walks up to me and gets down on one knee.
“Raven Bennett, you’ve made me the happiest man in the world. I love absolutely everything about you. From your sunny disposition to your mad marketing skills, you are the woman I was born to love.”
Then he takes out a small box and opens it to reveal a shining oval-shaped diamond ring.
“Raven, will you marry me? Make me the happiest man alive?”
Overwhelmed with what is happening, I collapse onto the ground in front of him. I can’t seem to find my words, which didn’t work out for me last time. I take a deep breath, look into his aqua eyes, and smile.
“You shook my foundation from the first moment I met you. In the dark, you are my light. I’ve never met anyone quite like you. You’re a rare find, Mr. Cavendish.”
“Mr. Cavendish?” he says, smirking.
“Charles,” I coo. “I love you with every piece of me, and I wouldn’t be happy living a life without you.”
“What’s your answer?” Ash calls out, and everyone laughs.
“I think I’m rambling now,” I say, and Charles smiles. I place my hand out and reply, “Yes. Very much yes!”
Everyone applauds as Charles puts the ring on my finger and leans in to kiss me. We stand up, and it’s only then that I see who’s here. My mother and Lily are among the throngs of people.
“Mom!” I run forward and hug her.
“Hi, my girl. Congratulations.”
“What are you doing here?”
“Charles invited me. And I got to spend the day alone with him, visiting, as he set this surprise up for you. The more time we spend together, the more I know he’s the perfect man for you. I’m so happy for you, baby girl. You look so beautiful and happy.” She leans in and places a kiss on my cheek. “I think you found your Ray.”
I burst into tears, hugging my mother so very tight. The mention of my father and her love for him sends my emotions through the roof. I’ve always wished for a love like theirs, and I’ve found it.
“We’re all here for the week,” Lily says, coming up behind me.
“The week? That’s the best news ever,” I say as I step back from Mom and wipe away the tears.
Charles walks up to me, and I wrap my arms around him.
“Thank you. For all of this,” I say.
He grins and takes my hand. “Now, there are two other people I want you to meet,” he says. He walks me over to a man who looks exactly like an older version of Charles, and I know instantly it’s his father. All the way from London.
Charles has been helping his father with his divorce proceedings. It’s been a long road, but he looks good.
“Gwen, Dad, I want you to meet Raven. Raven, this is my dad and his wonderful girlfriend.”
“It’s such a pleasure to meet you. I’ve heard so much about you, Mr. Cavendish.”
“All good things, I hope?” he asks. “Please, call me Charlie.”