The Duchess

chapter 12

Chapter 12: A Proposal Beneath the Stars

The air buzzed with celebration at Duchess Hanna's estate. Lanterns flickered gently in the warm evening breeze, casting golden light over the lush garden. Laughter and music filled the air as guests toasted to the newly signed peace treaty. Amid the revelry, Rian stood near the edge of the festivities, tugging at his collar and murmuring to himself.

"She'll say yes," he whispered, running a hand through his hair for the tenth time. "Won't she?" His stomach churned as he glanced toward Irina, who was chatting with a group of knights. Her laughter rang out, pure and bright, like music to his ears. He was completely smitten, and tonight was the night he would tell her.

Hanna approached with a sly grin. "Still nervous?" she asked, sipping her wine.
"Is it that obvious?" Rian muttered.
"Only painfully," Hanna teased, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Don't overthink it. She's not the type to reject a good man like you."

Rian nodded, summoning every ounce of courage he could muster. As Irina turned toward him, their eyes met. His heart skipped a beat.

"Irina," he said, walking toward her, "can we take a walk? I need to speak with you."

Irina tilted her head, curiosity lighting her emerald-green eyes. "A walk? During the celebration? This must be serious," she teased, though her tone held warmth.

"It is," Rian admitted.

They strolled through the garden, the glow of lanterns fading as they ventured deeper into the moonlit paths. The quiet allowed the distant chirping of crickets to fill the air. Rian led her to a secluded corner where a circle of candles surrounded a small table. Atop it sat a velvet box.

Irina stopped, her gaze flickering from the setup to Rian. "What's this?" she asked, her voice soft.

Rian took a deep breath and turned to her, his hands trembling slightly. "Irina," he began, "I've faced countless battles and challenges, but none have made me more nervous than this moment."

A smile played on Irina's lips, though her cheeks flushed. "Rian..."

He dropped to one knee, pulling the velvet box from the table. Inside was a ring, its gemstone a vivid emerald that mirrored her eyes. "You are the strongest, smartest, and most remarkable person I've ever known. I can't imagine my life without you by my side. Will you marry me?"

Irina's hand flew to her mouth, her eyes wide with shock and emotion. For a moment, she said nothing, simply staring at the man before her. Then, a grin broke across her face.

"Well, I suppose I've waited long enough for this," she said, her voice teasing but her tone filled with warmth. "Yes, Rian. Yes, I'll marry you."

Relief and joy washed over him as he slipped the ring onto her finger. He rose, pulling her into his arms as their laughter mingled with the night.

From a distance, Hanna watched the scene unfold. She let out a satisfied sigh and smirked. "Finally," she muttered, raising her glass in a silent toast.

As the newly engaged couple wandered back toward the celebration, a shadow flickered across the garden, unseen by all. The night's joy would soon be tested, but for now, love prevailed.