Chapter 8 - Healing and New Beginnings
Over the next year, Ethan became a constant, comforting presence in Hailey’s life.
Unlike Jasper, who had always demanded the spotlight, Ethan was perfectly content supporting Hailey from the sidelines. He never asked about her family’s wealth. In fact, on their first official date, he didn't take her to a high-end, exclusive restaurant. Knowing how much she loved simple comfort food, he packed a homemade picnic basket and took her to a secluded, beautiful botanical garden.
The true test for Hailey, however, was Toby. She was fiercely protective of her son and was hesitant to bring anyone into his life. But the first time Ethan met Toby, all her fears vanished.
Ethan had walked into the playroom, dropped immediately to his knees, and let Toby pull on his stethoscope. Within ten minutes, Toby was giggling hysterically, playing peek-a-boo with the brilliant surgeon.
"He’s a special boy, Hailey," Ethan had said that evening, holding her hand as they watched Toby sleep in his crib. "You’ve raised him with so much love. I would be honored if you let me help protect that love."
The divorce from Jasper had been finalized months ago, with Jasper receiving absolutely nothing from the marital estate due to a comprehensive prenuptial agreement he had signed without reading during his arrogant phase. He had also relinquished his parental rights in exchange for Robertson Global waiving a portion of his outstanding debt—proving to Hailey once and for all that his greed outweighed any paternal instinct.
One beautiful spring evening, under a canopy of blooming cherry blossoms in the Robertson estate garden, Ethan took Hailey’s hands in his.
"Hailey, from the moment I met you, I knew you were extraordinary," Ethan said, his voice rich with emotion. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a simple, stunning vintage sapphire ring—not an ostentatious display of wealth, but a beautiful, timeless piece that belonged to his grandmother. "I don't care about empires or corporations. I care about you, and I care about Toby. I want to spend the rest of my life making sure you never have to walk alone. Will you marry me?"
May you like
Tears of pure happiness welled up in Hailey’s eyes. She looked toward the veranda, where her father Finnley was holding Toby, both of them waving at her with massive smiles.
"Yes, Ethan," Hailey whispered, throwing her arms around his neck. "A million times, yes."
