Chapter 8 - The Proposal
The transition to legitimate business was exhausting, but Gabriel felt lighter than he had in years.
He sold off the illegal gambling dens and invested heavily in affordable housing developments.
He wanted the Mercer name to represent protection and growth, rather than fear and violence.
One quiet Friday evening, Gabriel returned to the estate after a long week of corporate meetings.
The mansion was warm and filled with the scent of roasted garlic and fresh herbs.
Leah had dismissed the private chef for the night, insisting on cooking dinner herself.
Gabriel found her in the massive kitchen, humming a soft tune while stirring a pot of pasta.
Noah was sitting safely in a high chair nearby, happily chewing on a plastic spoon.
Gabriel leaned against the doorframe, captivated by the beautiful domestic scene.
He had spent his entire life fighting wars, and he had finally found his sanctuary.
Leah turned around, her face lighting up with a brilliant smile when she saw him.
"You are home early," she said, wiping her flour-dusted hands on an apron.
"I couldn't stay away," Gabriel replied, walking over to kiss her deeply.
He picked Noah out of the high chair, tossing the giggling boy into the air.
After a quiet, perfect dinner, Gabriel poured two glasses of wine and led Leah to the balcony.
They stood together, looking out over the peaceful, starlit gardens of the estate.
Gabriel set his wine glass down and turned to face the woman who had saved his soul.
He reached into the pocket of his trousers and pulled out a small velvet box.
Leah gasped, covering her mouth with her hands as tears instantly welled in her eyes.
Gabriel slowly dropped to one knee, looking up at her with unwavering devotion.
"You brought light into a world I thought was permanently dark, Leah," Gabriel whispered.
"You saved my nephew, and in doing so, you saved my life."
He opened the box, revealing a stunning, flawless diamond ring.
"Will you marry me, and let me spend the rest of my life protecting you?"
Leah sobbed joyful tears, nodding her head vigorously.
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"Yes, Gabriel, yes, I will marry you," she cried, pulling him up into an embrace.
He slipped the ring onto her finger, sealing their promise under the night sky.
