Page 38 of Five Goodbyes

While the joyous chatter continues, I lean closer to the screen, a mix of nerves and determination coursing through me. “Joseph, I want to thank you for raising such an incredible woman. Jasmine brings so much joy and love into my life, and I can’t imagine a future without her. I’d be honored if you’d also give me your blessing to marry her.”

Joseph’s eyes widen, his gaze filled with surprise, and then deep contemplation. For a moment, there’s silence as the weight of my words settle between us. Then, a soft smile tugs at the corners of his mouth.

“Hunter, my boy,” he begins, his voice resonating with wisdom and affection. “I’ve watched you and Jasmine grow together, even if thousands of miles away, and it’s clear to me that your love is real and steadfast. You know I have Smoke sending me updates regularly. If he speaks highly of you, and he does, then your character must be of the highest quality. You have my blessing, but I want to make one thing clear: marriage is not just a union between two people; it’s a lifelong commitment to support, cherish, and uplift one another. I have no doubt that you possess the qualities to make Jasmine happy, but promise me, promise us, that you’ll always be there for her, through thick and thin, in every season of life.”

Moved by his words, I nod fervently. “Joseph, you have my word. I’ll love and protect Jasmine with all of my heart, and I’ll be the partner she deserves. I’m grateful for your trust and guidance.”

Joseph’s eyes soften, his gaze filled with profound tenderness. “That’s all I need to hear, Hunter. Love her unconditionally, and you’ll be rewarded with a lifetime of joy and fulfillment. We welcome you into our family with open arms.”

As our conversation draws to a close, Joseph’s voice crackles with emotion. “Hunter, you’ve brought so much happiness to our family. I’m truly blessed to have a grandson like you. Take care of our precious Jasmine, and remember, love is the greatest gift you can give and receive.”

With tears glistening in my eyes, I express my heartfelt gratitude, my voice filled with sincerity. “Thank you, Joseph. I promise to cherish Jasmine and shower her with the love she deserves. I’ll make you proud.”

As the call ends, we sit, enjoying the moment of what’s transpired over the last few minutes. The warmth of Joseph’s approval fills me with a profound sense of purpose and gratitude. It’s clear that Jasmine’s grandfather holds an incredible bond with her — a bond forged through years of support that I’m only just beginning to understand.

I turn to Jasmine, a tender smile gracing my lips. “Your grandparents are extraordinary, Jasmine. The love between them, and their love for you, is truly inspiring.”

Jasmine’s eyes shimmer as she leans into my embrace. “I'm so fortunate to have them, and now, I’m even more grateful to have you by my side. We’ll create our own legacy. They’ve been a great model for me to build on.”

Together, we rise from the table, hand in hand, ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime. The blessings of her parents, and grandparents, propel us forward, guiding us through the ups and downs that lie ahead. And as we step out into the world, our hearts filled with love and hope, we know that we’re not alone.

The legacy of love, and the bonds of family, will continue to shape our lives, reminding us of the profound connection we share. And with each step we take, we carry the love and blessings of our families, a beacon of light that will illuminate our path as we build a future teeming with joy, laughter, and steady commitment.

The four of us make our way to the beach. It won’t be long until they must depart, so we take the last few minutes to put sand under our feet and allow the sun to kiss our skin. The ocean breeze caresses our faces as we stroll along the water’s edge. The sound of seagulls overhead and the gentle lapping of the waves create a soothing soundtrack to our conversation.

Jasmine looks at me with sparkling eyes, her smile radiant. “Hunter, can you believe it? We’re officially engaged! It still feels like a dream. And this ring is absolutely stunning.”

I affectionately squeeze her right hand as she showcases the ring at eye level. “It’s a dream come true, Jasmine. I couldn’t be happier. I’m excited for our future together.”

She leans her head against my shoulder, her voice filled with anticipation. “I can’t wait to plan our wedding, Hunter. I was never the girl to dream about a fairytale wedding, but that’s exactly what we’ve created . . . a perfect fairytale.”

“I can’t imagine what this is going to look like. Your grandfather may spend his entire empire on the wedding,” Lucas says with laughter.

“True dad. Even if I wanted a small wedding it couldn’t happen without breaking Gramps’s heart. This will most likely be the biggest wedding anyone in attendance will ever attend.”

“Should I be worried?” I ask.

“Oh, you have no idea, my boy,” Amy says before laughing.

This causes Lucas and Jasmine to begin laughing as well. I don’t ask but am looking forward to understanding what the inside joke is all about.

We let the conversation stop there and settle into place, all looking out across the ocean, becoming lost in our own thoughts.

“Well honey, we need to start making our way back. Don’t you dare try to follow us or say that you need to give us a ride to the airport. Let mom and I have this moment as we watch you walk away, down the beach, as the symbolism of you starting a new chapter in your life stays with us.”

Just like that, we shake hands, give hugs, and say goodbyes. Promises are made that Isaiah will know he was missed, and to tell him goodbye for us.

Then, as requested, Jasmine and I continue our leisurely walk along the shoreline, we discuss our hopes and dreams for the future. We envision a life filled with adventure, laughter, and a love that grows stronger with each passing day. We talk about the places we want to explore together, the dreams we want to chase, and the family we hope to build.

After a long while, we turn to find no trace of Jasmine’s parents. We find a cozy spot on the beach, where we sit side by side, watching the birds glide across the rich blue sky.

Jasmine rests her head on my shoulder, her voice a soft whisper. “Hunter, I’m so grateful for you. For your love, and for the way you always make me feel cherished. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you.”

“Jasmine, you’re my everything. Your love fills my heart with joy, and I promise to always be there for you, to be your partner, your confidant, and your best friend. Together, we’ll create a lifetime of memories, and build a love that withstands the test of time.”

We seal our promises with a tender kiss, the salty breeze carrying our love out into the world. In this moment, we embrace the beauty of the present while eagerly looking ahead to the future. We’re ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime . . . and there’s no doubt at all that we’ll get everything we want and so much more. Nothing can end this dream.

Chapter Thirteen

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