Chapter 15 - A New Horizon
The massive Sterling estate looked completely different now.
The dark, oppressive furniture had been entirely replaced with bright, modern pieces.
The heavy drapes were pulled wide open, allowing warm, natural sunlight to flood every single room.
Hannah stood on the newly rebuilt pool patio, holding a steaming mug of black coffee.
She was watching the gentle breeze ripple across the crystal-clear water.
She had completely reclaimed the space where she had once suffered so much pain.
Ethan walked out through the heavy glass doors and wrapped his arms warmly around her waist from behind.
He rested his chin gently on her shoulder.
"The board of directors officially approved the new charitable foundation this morning," Ethan murmured happily.
"We are dedicating five percent of all annual corporate profits to victims of domestic abuse."
Hannah smiled brightly, leaning back against his strong, comforting chest.
"Your father would be incredibly proud of the man you have become, Ethan."
"You saved his company, and you saved me."
Ethan gently turned her around so he could look deeply into her beautiful eyes.
"You saved yourself, Hannah."
"You were the one brave enough to call the police that night."
"You were the one who outsmarted Beatrice on the pier."
"You are the strongest, most incredible woman I have ever known."
Ethan slowly reached into his suit jacket pocket and pulled out a small, velvet box.
Hannah's breath caught in her throat as he dropped down onto one knee on the pristine white tiles.
He popped the box open, revealing a stunning, flawless diamond ring that sparkled in the sunlight.
"Hannah, I never want to spend another single day of my life without you by my side," Ethan said softly.
"Will you marry me?"
Tears of absolute joy streamed down Hannah's smiling face.
She didn't hesitate for a single second.
"Yes," Hannah cried happily, nodding her head vigorously.
"A million times, yes."
Ethan slid the beautiful ring onto her finger, right above the faint scar left by the golden stiletto.
It was a permanent symbol of her incredible survival and their unbroken bond.
He stood up and pulled her into a deep, passionate kiss.
The horrific nightmare of Beatrice Sterling was finally, entirely over.
May you like
They had walked through the absolute darkest fires of hell together.
And now, they had the rest of their beautiful lives to build a perfect future.
