Chapter 15 - THE HAPPY ENDING
Ten years later.
The sprawling lawns behind the Vitale estate echoed with the sound of childish laughter and splashing water.
Ten-year-old Isabella was currently using a garden hose to soak a very dignified, graying golden retriever, while Alessandro chased her across the grass, laughing with a freedom he had never known as a boy.
Emily sat on the shaded terrace, sipping iced tea, watching her family from the comfort of her carved walnut chair.
Alessandro jogged back up the terrace steps, out of breath, wearing a casual linen shirt with grass stains on the knees, and dropped heavily into the chair beside her.
He pulled her into his arms, kissing the top of her head.
"You're letting her run wild," Alessandro teased, though his eyes shone with absolute adoration.
"She gets it from her father," Emily smiled, resting her head against his shoulder.
Alessandro reached into his pocket, pulled out a small velvet box, and opened it.
Inside sat a brand-new platinum band, re-engraved with the old words, alongside a small diamond charm shaped like a key.
He slipped the ring back onto her finger, locking it in place with a gentle kiss.
"No more keys left behind?" Emily asked softly.
Alessandro smiled, his gray eyes reflecting the bright Chicago sun.
May you like
"Never," he whispered, pulling her close as their daughter ran across the lawn toward them with a bouquet of wildflowers. "The doors are unlocked, the crown is yours, and I'm right where I'm supposed to be."
THE END
