Chapter 9 - THE PROPOSAL
Two months later.
The summer sun was shining brightly over Blackwood Manor. The gardens were blooming with red roses, and the fountain sparkled in the afternoon light.
In the master suite, Ivy stood in front of the mirror, wearing a breathtaking cream-colored silk gown designed by Paris’s top fashion house. The gown was cut to perfection, celebrating every soft curve of her figure, making her look like a queen.
Her brother, Leo, stood beside her, walking comfortably on his own two feet with the help of a wooden cane.
"You look stunning, Ivy," Leo said, his eyes glowing with pride. "Mr. Blackwood is a lucky man."
Ivy smiled, hugging her brother tightly. "I love him so much, Leo."
A knock sounded at the door, and Malcolm stepped inside, holding a small velvet box. "Miss Lancaster, Mr. Blackwood is waiting for you in the rose garden."
Ivy took a deep breath, gathered her silk skirt, and walked down the grand marble staircase out into the sunlit garden.
Ronan was standing by the central marble fountain, wearing an immaculate black tuxedo. When he saw Ivy walking toward him, his breath hitched in his throat.
She was radiant—a vision of pure grace, strength, and soft, breathtaking beauty.
"Ivy," Ronan murmured as she reached him, taking both of her hands into his.
"Ronan," she smiled softly.
Ronan dropped to one knee on the lush green grass, holding up a velvet ring box. Inside rested a massive, flawless blue diamond ring surrounded by smaller white diamonds—a crown fit for a queen.
"Eight months ago, you walked into this house as a servant," Ronan said, his voice deep and trembling with emotion. "You took pain with dignity, you protected your family with courage, and you showed me what true honor looks like. You brought light into my dark, cold world, Ivy."
Tears of pure happiness spilled over Ivy’s lashes.
"Ivy Lancaster," Ronan whispered, looking into her eyes. "Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife? Will you rule this empire with me?"
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"Yes!" Ivy cried softly. "Yes, Ronan! A thousand times yes!"
Ronan stood up, sliding the priceless blue diamond onto her finger, before pulling her into a fierce, passionate kiss. The entire household staff—standing near the terrace—erupted into thunderous applause, lead by Malcolm Reeves, who wiped a tear from his eye.
