Hiraeth

Chapter Forty

Sage blinked awake, the remnants of sleep fading as she remembered the events of the previous question-Beckett's proposal, the overwhelming joy that filled her heart, and the beautiful ring resting on her finger.

As she sat up, she gazed at the ring, a dazzling reminder of their love and the commitment they had just made to each other. She could hardly believe this moment had finally arrived after everything they had endured. It felt surreal, like a dream she never wanted to wake from.

Determined to make the most of this new chapter, Sage threw on a light dress, its flowing fabric dancing around her legs as she moved. She stepped outside, inhaling the crisp morning air filled with the scent of blooming flowers from the garden below.

The estate was alive with the sounds of the morning-birds chirping, servants bustling about, and the soft rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze. Sage made her way down the grand staircase, her heart fluttering with excitement at the thought of sharing the news with her family and friends.

As she entered the dining hall, she found her mother and younger sister already at the table, sharing a breakfast of fresh bread and fruit. The warmth of their smiles enveloped her, making her feel welcomed and cherished.

"Sage! Good morning, love," her mother greeted, her eyes sparkling with affection. "You look radiant today."

"Thank you, Mother," Sage replied, her heart swelling with joy. "I have something important to share."

Her sister's eyes widened with curiosity. "What is it? You look like you're bursting with excitement!"

Sage took a deep breath, glancing at her mother, who watched her with encouraging eyes. "Beckett proposed to me." she announced, her voice filled with exhilaration.

Silence filled the room for a heartbeat, then her sister squealed in delight, rushing over to hug her tightly. "Oh my goodness! This is amazing! You two are perfect for each other!"

Her mother joined the embrace, tears of happiness glistening in her eyes. "I'm so proud of you, Sage. You deserve all the happiness in the world."

They shared heartfelt laughter and excitement, the warmth of family wrapping around them like a comforting blanket.

Later that morning, Sage and her family gathered in the courtyard for tea, and she couldn't help but share every detail of her proposal-how Beckett had looked at her with such love, how he had knelt on one knee, and the way he had expressed his feelings with such vulnerability.

As they sat beneath the blooming cherry blossom tree, Sage felt a sense of peace wash over her. The worries of the past felt distant, replaced by the promise of love and new beginnings.

After tea, Sage knew she had to tell her closest friends. She sought out Emilie, who had grown to be such a comfort to her through everything that had happened.

"Sage! You look stunning! What's the occasion?" Emilie asked, her voice melodic.

Sage took her friend's hands, excitement bubbling within her. "Beckett proposed! I'm engaged!"

Emilie's hands flew to her mouth, eyes wide with disbelief. "Oh my goodness! I'm so happy for you! You two are going to have the most beautiful life together!"

They embraced tightly, tears of joy in Emilie's eyes. "I always knew he was the one for you," she said, pulling back to admire the ring. "It's gorgeous!"

"Thank you! I can't believe it's really happening," Sage replied, her heart soaring.

As the day progressed, Sage began to feel the weight of her past lifting. The whispers, the rumors-they felt like echoes of a life she was ready to leave behind. Today was about love, and she was determined to embrace it fully.