Page 81 of The Alpha's Forbidden Heir

The maids giggle softly as they set to work. The white box is opened with delicate precision, revealing an exquisite dress inside.

The gown is a stunning deep emerald green, the color rich and vivid, perfectly complementing my complexion. It’s made of a luxurious satin fabric that shimmers faintly in the light, with intricate lace detailing running along the bodice and cascading down the long, flowing skirt. The neckline is an elegant sweetheart shape, framed by delicate off-the-shoulder straps that give it a timeless, regal look.

The back dips slightly, accentuating its sophistication without being overly revealing, while the waist is cinched with a delicate satin ribbon, creating a flattering silhouette.

“Where did he even find something like this?” I ask, running my fingers over the fabric.

“The Alpha has his ways,” one of the maids says with a knowing smile.

They work quickly but meticulously, dressing me in the gown, pinning my hair into an elegant updo, and adorning me with subtle but dazzling jewelry. As they apply the finishing touches to my makeup, I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror and barely recognize the woman staring back.

“You look breathtaking, Luna,” one of them whispers.

I turn, smoothing the skirt of the dress nervously. “It’s beautiful,” I admit.

Once they’re done, the maids step back, admiring their work. “You’re ready, Luna,” one of them says with a satisfied smile.

I take a deep breath, trying to calm the nervous energy bubbling inside me. “Thank you,” I say.

There's a knock and a maid steps in, holding a small envelope sealed with wax. “From the Alpha,” she says with a smile, placing it gently on the bedside table before leaving.

Curious, I pick up the envelope, breaking the seal. Inside is a folded note written in Bane’s strong, unmistakable handwriting:

“Aria,

Come to the gardens. Follow the lanterns.

I’ll be waiting for you.

—Bane”

My heart skips a beat as I glance at the box again.

My fingers tremble as I smooth the material, realizing just how much thought he’s put into this.

The sun is setting as I step into the garden, the emerald dress flowing around me. Lanterns light the path ahead, casting a warm glow over the stone walkway. My heels click softly as I follow the trail, my heart pounding in anticipation.

The scent of roses fills the air as I turn the final corner.

My breath catches.

Petals cover the ground in a sea of crimson, stretching toward a gazebo draped in fairy lights. In the center stands Bane, his tall frame commanding yet softened by the vulnerability in his eyes. He’s wearing a crisp white shirt, the sleeves rolled up slightly, and dark slacks.

“Bane…” I whisper, stepping closer.

“You’re beautiful,” he says, his voice low and reverent as his gaze sweeps over me.

The moment I reach him, he takes my hands, his calloused fingers brushing against my skin. “Aria,” he begins, his voicesteady but filled with emotion, “when I think of everything we’ve been through—every fight, every loss, every moment we’ve shared—I can’t imagine facing any of it without you by my side.”

I swallow hard, tears threatening to spill.

“You’ve changed me,” he continues. “You’ve made me better. Stronger. And I want to spend the rest of my life proving to you just how much you mean to me.”

He steps back slightly, reaching into his pocket. My heart stops as he kneels on one knee, a velvet box in his hand.

“Aria,” he says, opening the box to reveal a stunning ring—an emerald stone nestled between delicate diamonds, shining brilliantly even in the dim light. “Will you marry me?”

For a moment, I can’t breathe. Then, through the tears streaming down my face, I nod. “Yes,” I manage to whisper, then louder, “Yes!”

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