My cheeks warm at his words. All my doubts about the beautiful women surrounding him, the tension I felt from his mother, the unease about being with someone so perfect—it all softens in that moment. Knowing he waited for me, stayed loyal to me despite everything, gives me a quiet strength.

I reach for his hand tentatively. He curls his fingers around mine, squeezing gently before bringing it to his lips to plant a soft kiss. His eyes settle on me with a tenderness that grows ...