Chapter 19: Chapter 19
Chapter Nineteen: A Love That Never Fades
The golden glow of the morning sun streamed through the sheer curtains, casting soft shadows across the bedroom. Isabella stirred, feeling the warmth of Alexander's embrace before she even opened her eyes. His strong arms were wrapped around her, his breath warm against her neck.
A slow, contented smile spread across her lips. This was what happiness felt like—waking up next to the man she loved, knowing that the world outside didn't matter as long as they had each other.
She shifted slightly, her fingers tracing lazy patterns over Alexander's chest. His heart beat steadily beneath her touch, a soothing rhythm that felt like home.
"You're awake," his husky morning voice rumbled, sending a delightful shiver down her spine.
She lifted her gaze to meet his, finding his stormy blue eyes filled with warmth and something deeper—something that made her heart flutter.
"How long have you been watching me?" she asked, brushing her fingers over his stubbled jaw.
Alexander smirked. "Long enough to know you talk in your sleep."
Her eyes widened. "I do not!"
He chuckled, rolling her onto her back, pinning her beneath him with ease. "Oh, but you do," he teased, trailing a finger down her cheek. "You said my name."
A deep blush spread across her face. "You're lying."
He leaned in, his lips brushing teasingly against hers. "Would I ever lie to you, sweetheart?"
Her breath hitched as he kissed her softly, a slow, lingering kiss that made her toes curl.
"No," she whispered when he pulled back slightly.
He smiled against her lips. "Exactly."
Isabella giggled, threading her fingers through his hair as he kissed her again, this time with more urgency. Their bodies molded together effortlessly, heat building between them as Alexander's hands roamed over her curves.
"I could stay like this forever," he murmured against her lips.
She sighed, melting beneath his touch. "Who says we can't?"
His eyes darkened with desire. "Tempting, but I have plans for us today."
She arched a brow. "Plans?"
Alexander rolled off her, pulling her close so that she was half-draped over him. "I'm taking you somewhere special," he said, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear.
She traced a finger over his bare chest. "And where might that be?"
His lips curved into a mischievous smile. "You'll see."
An Unforgettable Surprise
A few hours later, Isabella found herself seated in Alexander's sleek black sports car as they drove down the coast. The scenery was breathtaking—golden beaches stretching along the horizon, waves crashing against the shore, and palm trees swaying in the warm breeze.
Her heart pounded with excitement. Alexander hadn't given her any clues about their destination, only that it was something special.
"Are you going to tell me now?" she asked, turning toward him with a playful pout.
He smirked, keeping his eyes on the road. "Patience, my love."
She huffed. "You know I'm terrible at that."
He reached over, intertwining his fingers with hers. "Trust me, Isabella. You're going to love it."
Her heart melted at the way he said her name—like it was the most precious thing in the world.
After another twenty minutes of driving, Alexander finally pulled into a secluded area near the cliffs. Isabella's eyes widened as she took in the breathtaking sight before her.
A beautifully set-up picnic awaited them—blankets spread across the soft grass, candles flickering in the breeze, and a table adorned with roses and champagne. The ocean stretched endlessly in the background, waves crashing against the cliffs below.
Her heart swelled with emotion.
"Alexander… this is…" She turned to him, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "This is incredible."
He stepped behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist. "I wanted today to be special. Just you and me. No distractions, no interruptions. Just us."
She leaned back against him, overwhelmed by love. "You always know how to take my breath away."
He kissed her temple. "That's my intention."
They sat down, enjoying the delicious meal prepared just for them. The conversation flowed effortlessly, laughter ringing through the air as they shared memories, dreams, and stolen kisses between bites of dessert.
As the sun began to set, casting hues of pink and gold across the sky, Alexander reached for her hand.
"There's something I want to ask you," he said, his voice suddenly serious.
She met his gaze, her heart hammering in anticipation. "What is it?"
He took a deep breath. "We've been through so much together. Every moment with you has been the best part of my life. And I know that no matter what happens, I want to spend every single day with you."
Her breath caught as he pulled out a small velvet box from his pocket.
"I know I've already asked you to marry me," he continued, flipping the box open to reveal a stunning diamond ring, "but I wanted to do it again—properly."
Tears welled in her eyes as he knelt before her.
"Isabella Carter, will you do me the honor of becoming my wife? Not just in words, but in heart, in soul, and in every lifetime that follows?"
A choked sob escaped her lips as she nodded fervently. "Yes! A thousand times, yes!"
Alexander slipped the ring onto her finger before capturing her lips in a deep, passionate kiss. The world around them faded, leaving only the two of them bound in an embrace that spoke of forever.
The Dance Under the Stars
As the evening deepened, Alexander pulled her into his arms, swaying to the soft music playing from a nearby speaker. The stars shimmered above them, the ocean whispering secrets beneath the moonlight.
Isabella rested her head against his chest, closing her eyes as they moved together in perfect harmony.
"I never imagined love could feel this way," she murmured.
Alexander tightened his hold on her. "Neither did I. But then I met you."
She looked up at him, her eyes reflecting the universe. "I love you, Alexander."
His gaze softened. "And I love you, Isabella."
He leaned down, brushing his lips against hers in a kiss that spoke of promises yet to be fulfilled, of a love that would stand the test of time.
And in that moment, under the vast expanse of the heavens, Isabella knew—this love was eternal.
To be continued…