The carriage ride home felt both longer and shorter than the journey to Luke's estate. My mind was whirling with thoughts of the afternoon I had just experienced - the room full of flowers, Luke's confession of love, and the promise of a new beginning. The red rose Luke had given me sat in my lap, its sweet fragrance a constant reminder of the magical day.
As the carriage pulled up to our modest home, I took a deep breath, trying to compose myself. I knew my parents would be curious about my visit, and I wasn't quite sure how to explain everything that had happened. Part of me wanted to keep it all to myself, like a precious secret.
I thanked the driver and made my way to the front door. Before I could even reach for the handle, it swung open, revealing my father's worried face.
"Bella!
