After a week of sending the letter to her mother, Zilayefa and her siblings hadn't received any response. The family grew increasingly worried, their mother's silence unsettling. Zilayefa knew something must have gone terribly wrong. She prayed fervently for her mother's safety, her mind haunted by the cruel reputation of the Duke of Ralston.
That heartless old man had been a thorn in their side for far too long. If not for the debt they owed him, her mother would be home with them right now. The debt, incurred to treat her father's illness, still lingered, and her mother's payments to the Duke barely covered the interest.
As Zilayefa's worries swirled, Mr. Stevenson Jnr's kindness had been a beacon of hope. Over the past week, he'd been attentive and caring, and Zilayefa couldn't deny the feelings blossoming within her. She sensed he felt the same way, and his invitation to lunch today seemed like the perfect opportunity for him to express his feelings.
He'd asked her to come alone, which only strengthened her suspicion that he might propose. Her heart skipped a beat at the thought. While her brothers worked on the farm, saving up for something, Zilayefa spent the morning preparing for her special lunch date.
She cleaned their small hut, donning the beautiful gown Mr. Stevenson Jnr had gifted her. As she gazed into the mirror, she barely recognized the elegant, beautiful young woman staring back. Her eyes sparkled with happiness, and her heart swelled with love.
With a spring in her step, Zilayefa made her way to the designated meeting point. A carriage ride later, she arrived at a breathtaking maze garden, complete with vibrant flowers and signs guiding her to her destination. The tranquil atmosphere enveloped her as she strolled through the garden, following the signs.
A gentle stream and picturesque bridge eventually led her to a serene clearing, where Prince Stevenson Jnr awaited her arrival. Resplendent in his finest attire, he welcomed her warmly and gallantly offered his seat. Before her sat a beautifully set table for two, laden with exquisite delicacies.
As they sat down to eat, Prince Stevenson Jnr's eyes locked onto hers, and Zilayefa's heart fluttered. They dined in comfortable silence, stealing occasional glances at each other. The air was thick with anticipation.
After lunch, Prince Stevenson Jnr suggested a leisurely stroll through the garden. Hand in hand, they wandered along winding paths, taking in the beauty surrounding them. The warm sun cast a golden glow over the scene, and Zilayefa felt as though she were floating on air.
As they paused beside a tranquil fountain, Prince Stevenson Jnr turned to her, his eyes burning with passion. "Miss Zilayefa," he began, his voice low and husky, "will you be mine?" The sincerity in his voice sent shivers down her spine.
Zilayefa's heart skipped seven beats as she struggled to catch her breath. She hadn't expected the intensity of his gaze or the depth of his emotions. Though she'd anticipated his proposal, she was unprepared for the overwhelming sensation that swept over her.
As she composed herself, Prince Stevenson Jnr's worried expression tugged at her heartstrings. "Please, Zilayefa, marry me," he implored, his voice trembling with vulnerability. Zilayefa's eyes met his, and she nodded, a soft smile spreading across her face.
"Is that a yes?" Prince Stevenson Jnr asked, hope etched on his face. Zilayefa's smile grew wider as she whispered, "YES, I'LL MARRY YOU!" The words tumbled out, filled with conviction and joy.
Prince Stevenson Jnr's face lit up with elation as he placed feathery kisses on the back of her hands. The tender gesture sent shivers down her spine, and Zilayefa knew in that moment, she was exactly where she was meant to be.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over the garden, Prince Stevenson Jnr escorted Zilayefa home, his arm wrapped lovingly around her shoulders. The night air was filled with promise and possibility, and Zilayefa's heart overflowed with happiness, knowing she'd found her soulmate in Prince Stevenson Jnr.