The days after Richard’s proposal were filled with laughter, excitement, and planning. Ann still couldn’t believe it was real. Every time she looked down at her ring, her heart skipped a beat. It sparkled like the joy in her heart. Richard had proposed in the most beautiful way, and now… they were planning a wedding. A real wedding. Not a secret one. Not a contract. Not something rushed or forced. A celebration of love. Richard insisted they take their time. “I don’t want just a perfect wedding,” he told her one evening as they sat together in the nursery, watching their baby sleep. “I want a perfect life with you.” Ann smiled. “We’ll make it perfect. Together.”
They chose a date just a month away soon, but not too soon. Victor surprised them by offering his estate in the countryside for
