As we walk by a jewelry store, I notice a beautiful necklace in the display. I mention how lovely it looks, but Ashlee dismisses it, saying that it's probably out of our budget. I nod, understanding that we can't always have everything we want. We continue walking, enjoying each other's company and the beautiful sights around us. As we make our way back home, I feel a sense of calmness and contentment. I realize that even though life can be tough sometimes, it's the little moments of joy that make it all worthwhile. When we get home, I thank Ashlee for a wonderful day out. She smiles, and we both go to sit in the living room watching TV.
Chapter eighteen
Our Fate
Dante
Isitatthedining table alone, savoring the flavors of the spaghetti I'm eating. As I'm about to take another bite, my mother walks in with a beautiful slice of tiramisu and places it in front of me. I smile at her in gratitude, admiring the dessert before me. It's one of my favorites.
"Thank you, Mom," I say before digging in. The creamy texture and the sweet flavor of the tiramisu melt in my mouth, and I close my eyes in pleasure.
"How's the food, dear?" My mother asks me with a smile.
"It's delicious, as always," I reply, savoring another bite of the spaghetti.
We sit in silence for a few moments, enjoying the meal. Then, my mother clears her throat and looks at me with a serious expression.
"Dante, I need to talk to you about something important," she says.
I nod, putting my fork down and giving her my full attention.
"It's about Ally," she continues. "I know how much you love her, and I want you to know that I support your decision to marry her." My mother has always wanted me to get married so that she can have grandkids.
My heart leaps with joy at her words. I've been waiting for this moment for so long, and to hear my mother's approval means everything to me.
"Thank you, Mom," I say, my voice filled with gratitude. "I'm so glad to hear that you're on board with this."
"I am," she replies. "In fact, I've already spoken to the director of the residency program, and he's agreed to lift the suspension. This isn’t just a friendship at work, it’s a family relationship with a baby involved. We can’t just leave this baby to be raised by a single mom. I spoke with your father at length and we both agree that this relationship is important to you and for our future grandkid. Ally can start her residency again."
I can hardly believe what I'm hearing. It's like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders, and I feel grateful beyond words.
"Thank you so much, Mom," I say, getting up from my chair and giving her a hug. "I don't know how to thank you."
"Just be happy, my dear," she replies, returning my embrace. "That's all I want for you."
We sit back down, and I finish my meal, feeling content and grateful. Then, my mother starts asking me about Ally, and we talk for hours about everything from her favorite books to her childhood dreams. As we talk, I find myself getting lost in the conversation, forgetting about everything else except the joy and happiness that Ally brings to my life. My mother listens intently, asking thoughtful questions and sharing her own insights.
"She sounds like a remarkable young woman," my mother says, her eyes shining with admiration. "I can see why you love her so much."
"She is," I reply, feeling a surge of love and pride for Ally. "I can't imagine my life without her."
"You don't have to," my mother says. "You have each other, and that's all that matters."
We continue talking for a while longer, until the evening sun starts to set, casting a warm glow over the dining room. Then, I rise from my chair, feeling much calmer than before.
"Thank you for everything, Mom," I say, giving her a kiss on the cheek. "I love you."
"I love you too, dear," she replies, giving me a warm smile. "Now go and be happy."
As I leave the dining room, I feel a sense of renewed purpose and determination. With my mother's blessing, I can finally continue my position as the Chief Neurologist and marry the woman I love. And with Ally by my side, I know that anything is possible.
I head out of the house, fueled with excitement and anticipation. I get in my car and start the engine, the sound of the motor filling me with a sense of purpose. As I drive down the road, my mind is consumed with thoughts of Ally and our future together.
I take out my phone and send her a message, telling her that I am on the way to her home. I can't wait to tell her the news and share my joy with her. A few minutes later, I arrive at the apartment building and park my car at the nearest parking spot available. I step out and walk up to the front door, my heart beating with excitement. As I ring the doorbell, Ally opens and greets me with a smile, her eyes shining with happiness.
"Dante, what's going on?" she asks, her voice filled with curiosity.
I kiss her forehead and kneel in front of her. " Ally, you are the only person who fills my heart and soul with joy and love". I say as I look in her eyes. "Will you marry me?" I add.