Chapter 23

He dropped to one knee.

It wasn't an exaggerated, theatrical gesture, but natural and solemn. He took a velvet box from his pocket—not a flashy jewelry case, but a simple, deep blue box.

"Ethan, you..." I froze.

"Shh." He placed a finger to his lips, then opened the box.

There was no expensive diamond inside, no ostentatious gem, only a uniquely designed ring. It was crafted from two metals in