Chapter 6 - The Oath of Life
Two years later.
The sun shone brightly over the grand auditorium of Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.
Cheering and applause erupted from the crowd as hundreds of medical graduates in black gowns and green hoods walked across the stage to receive their medical degrees.
Standing at the podium as the class valedictorian was Dr. Elena Santos.
Her speech was breathtaking—speaking on compassion, vigilance, and the absolute sacred duty of saving lives regardless of where a person comes from.
In the very front row sat Vincent Costa.
He was dressed in a pristine gray suit, looking like royalty. Beside him sat Dominic, looking uncomfortable in a formal tie but clapping enthusiastically. Vincent’s eyes never left Elena’s face, his heart bursting with a proud, profound love that illuminated his dark eyes.
After the ceremony, the sunny courtyard was filled with happy families, flowers, and photos.
Elena walked through the crowd, her white doctor's coat draped proudly over her arm, her diploma held tightly in her hand.
Vincent stepped forward to meet her, pulling a massive bouquet of yellow roses from behind his back—the same yellow as the cap on the vial that had saved his life three years ago.
"Congratulations, Dr. Santos," Vincent said softly, a brilliant smile on his face.
"I couldn't have done it without you, Vincent," Elena wept happily, hugging him around the neck.
Vincent gently pulled back, stepping down onto one knee right there in the center of the university courtyard in front of hundreds of students and faculty members.
He pulled a small velvet box from his coat pocket, opening it to reveal a magnificent, glowing diamond ring that sparkled under the afternoon sun.
"Elena Santos," Vincent said, his deep voice rich with unshakeable devotion and warmth. "Three years ago, you walked into my room as a maid and saved my life. Today, you stand as the most brilliant doctor in this city. You brought light, truth, and love into my dark world. Will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?"
Elena covered her mouth, tears of pure joy streaming down her glowing face.
"Yes!" Elena cried out over the cheers of the crowd. "Yes, Vincent! A thousand times yes!"
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Vincent stood up, sliding the ring onto her finger, and pulled her into a passionate, breathtaking kiss under the bright blue sky.
The shadows of the past were completely gone, replaced by a bright, beautiful future built on courage, healing, and an eternal, unbreakable love.
