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“What about you, Cousin Oliver?” Enzo said. “How are things going with the new Royal Academy of Arts? I do not remember what you do there.”
I pasted on my best smile and answered, “Hopefully, we’ll be breaking ground on new construction within the next few months. Grace and I are at the helm as president and director. Together, we’re overseeing the institution’s overall artistic and administrative direction, including exhibitions and programs. I’m absolutely loving it.”
“Me, too.” Grace hooked her arm around mine and smiled. “It’s something very near and dear to our hearts.”
My chance had arrived, and I seized it with determination.
Nothing is going to stop me now.
I cleared my throat. “Speaking of my heart . . . there is someone here who has stolen mine, and that is you, Grace.”
I pulled out the diamond ring and dropped down to one knee.
Grace’s hands flew over her mouth.
The backyard fell silent, amplifying the intensity of the moment.
“Grace, you are the love of my life,” I continued. “From the moment I met you, you have captivated me with every little thing you do. Nothing would make me happier than to spend the rest of my life with you by my side.”
As I held her hand, the warmth of her touch resonated with the emotions swirling within me. A soft smile played on her lips, and I continued, my gaze unwavering. “Every sunrise, every sunset, every high, every low, I want to experience them with you,” I said. “And so, I ask you this with all the love from the bottom of my heart, will you marry me?”
A tear slipped down her cheek as she nodded. “Yes.”
Joy surged through me as I gently slid the ring onto her finger. Rising to my feet, I closed the space between us, our lips meeting in a kiss. Cheers erupted around us, but in that magical moment, I had no desire for the kiss to end.
“Cousin Oliver, you might want to find a room,” Renzo teased. “The house has many. Take your pick.”
Grace and I broke away from our kiss, laughter bubbling up as we realized we might have gotten a bit carried away.
“That was an impressive kiss, I must say,” Enzo playfully chimed in, then he turned to Aunt Honey. “Looks like we have some competition.”
Grinning from ear to ear, I proudly announced, “We’re getting married!” My proclamation was met with a chorus of congratulations and warm embraces.
“My wish came true,” Grace said, holding up her hand to admire the ring.
“Mine as well,” I said with a grin.
This marked the beginning of a lifetime of love, laughter, and shared dreams. I could not wait to marry Grace.
“Congratulations,” Cristina said, hugging Grace. “You’re not thinking of planning your own wedding, are you?”
Grace snorted. “No way.” She turned to me. “I assume we will be hiring Miss DuPont, right?”
I nodded. “If you’re okay with that.”
“Definitely,” Grace said.
Cristina hugged me as well. “Congratulations. And thank you for flying me here for this on your jet. It means a lot.”
“It’s my pleasure,” I said.
“The timing of this could not be more perfect,” Mother said with energy I haven’t seen in years. “Because I have another announcement to make. I was going to wait, but since today is a day of good news, why not now?” She glanced at Sebastian, then back at the rest of us. “I am abdicating the throne.”
A collective gasp filled the backyard.
“What?” I said.
“When?” Theo asked, his surprise mirroring mine.
