Chapter 9 - THE PROPOSAL & THE ROYAL WEDDING
The entire lawn went silent as Julian opened the velvet box.
Inside rested a stunning custom-designed ring: a flawless 5-carat pink diamond surrounded by platinum orchid petals, mirroring the design of Eleanor's heirloom ring.
"Maya Montgomery," Julian said, his voice ringing with absolute sincerity. "You are the strongest, most graceful, and most beautiful woman I have ever known. You brought light back into my life and gave me a family to protect and love forever. Will you make me the happiest man alive and marry me?"
Tears of pure happiness welled up in Maya's eyes. Lily clapped her hands frantically, jumping up and down. "Say yes, Mommy! Say yes!"
Maya smiled through her tears, stepping forward. "Yes, Julian! A thousand times yes!"
Julian slid the ring onto her finger, stood up, and pulled her into a passionate kiss as fireworks erupted into the evening sky over the lake.
Six months later, the wedding of Maya Montgomery and Julian Sterling took place at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Manhattan.
It was hailed by international media as the wedding of the decade.
Maya walked down the aisle on the arm of her grandfather, Samuel Montgomery. She wore a breathtaking floor-length silk wedding gown with an orchid lace train designed by Paris's top couturier. Lily walked ahead of them as the flower girl, scattering pink rose petals along the white carpet.
At the altar, Julian stood waiting in a sharp black tuxedo, his eyes shining with emotion as Maya took her place beside him.
They exchanged vows filled with love, trust, and mutual respect—vows built not on financial convenience or social status, but on a deep, unbreakable bond forged through trial and triumph.
"I promise to honor you, support your dreams, and stand beside you in every storm," Julian vowed, holding her hands tightly.
May you like
"I promise to love you, cherish our family, and build a life of peace and truth with you," Maya responded softly.
As the priest pronounced them husband and wife, Julian dipped Maya into a romantic kiss, sending the entire cathedral into applause.
