Epilogue
KATE
Two Years Later
S tepping out of Table Bruno Verjus with Tommy’s hand in mine, I feel a wave of contentment wash over me. The warm Parisian night embraces us, carrying the intoxicating scent of blooming flowers and the sound of distant laughter. As we walk toward our waiting car, my mind wanders back to the exquisite meal we just shared.
“I know you don’t believe me, but I swear that man was flirting with you,” Tommy grumbles beside me, and I playfully swat his bicep.
“No one was flirting with me. Chef Bruno just wanted to introduce himself. He was charming. And the dishes he prepared for us were heavenly.” I remember how the chef had described his latest creation, his passion for food evident in every gesture. The exclusive menu he crafted for us was divine, and I felt honored that he’d visit our table.
“I can admit the food was amazing. I’m glad you enjoyed it, baby.”
Our driver holds the door open for us while Tommy helps me slide into the back seat, then follows behind me. He tugs me into his side, wrapping a comforting arm around my shoulders as we ride through the illuminated streets of Paris, the city lights casting a magical reflection off the Seine. My eyes trace the enchanting cityscape, taking in the beauty around us. I believe Audrey Hepburn said it best in the movie Sabrina : Paris is always a good idea.
As we settle into companionable tranquility, I find myself lost in thought, reflecting on the past couple of years with the man at my side. What started off as a secret dalliance grew into a true romance filled with love and adoration. Despite the challenges we faced early on, our connection has proven to be more powerful than any obstacle thrown our way, even stronger than an angry father who socked my forty-nine-year-old boyfriend in the face.
Tommy’s warm fingers intertwine with mine, drawing me back to the present moment. The unspoken affection is tangible, and I feel the weight of our shared history grounding me before the car comes to a gentle stop in front of my favorite place, the Eiffel Tower. The iconic structure looms above us, its lights twinkling like stars against the night sky. Call me cliché, but I’m in awe every time I see it.
“Look at that view,” Tommy says, his voice filled with wonder. “It never gets old, does it, honey?”
I shake my head, my eyes locked on the mesmerizing sight before us.
We exit the car and make our way to Madame Brasserie for dessert, a leisurely end to our fine-dining experience. The bustling restaurant exudes a magical ambiance that can only be captured inside the Eiffel Tower. We settle into a cozy table by the window, gazing into the night at our majestic view.
“Remember the first time we came here?” Tommy asks, a fond smile spreading across his face.
“You couldn’t stop talking about how amazing the chocolate soufflé was.” I laugh at the memories of him going on about it for weeks after we’d returned home.
“And you couldn’t get enough of the crème br?lée.”
“I think we can agree that both desserts were equally delicious.”
“You’re right, honey. You’re always right.” He shoots me a wink as he reaches for my hand on the table and lifts the back of it to his lips.
We place our order and enjoy our digestifs, soaking in the extravagance of our surroundings. After a short while, the waiter arrives with our desserts, a traditional tarte tatin and a pillowy tower of chocolate-covered cream puffs. We dig in, savoring each bite and barely containing our gratified moans. It’s in these moments that I’m thankful I have a partner who enjoys food just as much as I do.
“Did I tell you how beautiful you look tonight?” Tommy asks, his gaze intense and sincere.
“Maybe once or twice,” I tease before taking another sip of my Sauternes. “I don’t mind hearing it again, though.”
He looks into my eyes, caressing my hand in his warm palm. “You’re breathtaking, Kate. Every day, I fall more in love with you.”
My heart swells with devotion for this man, who has shown me time and time again how much he truly desires me.
We savor the rest of our desserts and finish our drinks before leaving the Madame Brasserie behind. Stepping out into the cool night air, I steal one more look at the historic twinkling tower casting a romantic glow around us. The evening is perfect, and I’m thankful I get to share it with Tommy.
Then, he turns to me and halts our casual stroll, his expression shifting from relaxed to serious. The gravity of the moment hangs heavy in the air as he reaches into his pocket, pulling out a small velvet box. Then he drops to one knee, his gaze never leaving mine, and my eyes well with tears.
“Kate,” he begins, his voice steady but filled with emotion. “These past two years have been the most incredible journey of my life. You’ve challenged me, inspired me, and brought more joy into my world than I ever thought possible.”
My pulse quickens and my heart threatens to beat out of my chest.
“Every day I spend with you is a gift, and I can’t imagine going through life without you by my side. I want to be your rock, your partner, your confidant—everything you need and more.” He pauses, taking a deep breath before continuing. “Kate Roush, will you marry me?”
My tears spill over my lashes as the reality of what’s happening sinks in. The culmination of our short time together, the promise of our future, all wrapped up in this single, life-changing moment.
“Yes, Tommy. A thousand times yes,” I choke out between sobs of happiness as a boyish grin sweeps across his handsome face, and he slides the three-stone, princess-cut engagement ring onto my finger. I barely have a chance to look at it before he shoots to his feet and crushes his lips to mine, making this the most incredible night of my life. “I love you more than words can express,” I whisper into his ear with a trembling voice.
He pulls back, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. “I can’t wait to start my future with you.”
Joy and elation swirl inside me like a kaleidoscope, lighting me up from the inside out. It’s not just about the ring or the promise it represents; it’s about the unwavering love and commitment that will carry us through the rest of our lives.
Our lips meet again in a tender kiss, one that speaks volumes about the depth of the passion that burns between us. As we continue to stroll hand in hand along the quiet streets, I know with absolute certainty that this is just the beginning for us. Our journey has been filled with a few twists and turns, but it’s led us here, to this unforgettable moment.
I can’t wait to see what the next chapter of our lives holds.