The restaurant was warm and elegant, with soft lights casting a golden shine over the neatly set tables. Lena and Sophie arrived first, guided to a table by the large window overlooking the city skyline. As Lena settled into her seat, she glanced at her phone, rereading the last message Ethan had sent that afternoon.
"Aunt Vivienne is really looking forward to tonight. She's been asking about you since I mentioned your name. Don't be nervous—just be yourself. She'll love you."
Lena smiled, nerves fluttering softly in her chest.
Moments later, the restaurant door opened, and the Calloway brothers walked in—Ethan in a sleek navy blazer that brought out the quiet steel in his eyes, and James in a more relaxed shirt-and-coat combo that suited his easygoing charm. The warmth in their eyes as they approached made both women smile.
Trailing just behind them was a graceful woman in her sixties, her posture elegant and face glowing with kind familiarity. "Aunt Vivienne," Ethan introduced, resting a hand lightly on the woman's back. "This is Lena. And that's Sophie."
Aunt Vivienne's smile softened further as she reached out and gently took Lena's hand. "So you're Lena," she said warmly. "Ethan's been talking about you since high school." Her words made Lena's heart stumble.
Aunt Vivienne's voice grew gentle. "He never forgot you. I remember how his whole expression would change just at the mention of your name. You've always been special to him."
Lena flushed, her voice quiet. "Thank you… that means a lot. And he's been really good to me. I feel lucky to have him in my life."
Aunt Vivienne gave her hand a small squeeze. "If he ever forgets how lucky he is, you come to me."
The group laughed, the atmosphere easing into something effortlessly joyful. Sophie, sitting beside James, beamed when Aunt Vivienne turned her attention.
"And you must be Sophie," she said. "It's good to see James smiling this much again."
Sophie chuckled. "I try to keep him in line."
Aunt Vivienne nodded, her eyes glimmering. "Well, I'm just glad to see both of my boys happy. They've been through a lot. And you girls—you're a gift."
The rest of the dinner passed in a blur of laughter, teasing, and heartfelt conversation. Aunt Vivienne fit right in with the group, telling stories about the boys' childhoods and occasionally nudging Ethan with a knowing smile whenever his eyes lingered on Lena too long.
After dinner, Ethan quietly took Lena's hand. "Come with me," he whispered.
She followed him, curious, until they reached a nearby park—one that had been transformed for the evening. Lanterns floated above a cobblestone path, casting soft golden light. Fairy lights glittered in the trees, and rose petals lined the ground.
"Ethan…" Lena whispered, breath catching.
He stopped in the middle of the clearing, the city lights behind them and the sky stretching open above. Then, slowly, Ethan turned to face her and dropped to one knee.
"Lena," he began, voice steady, eyes filled with emotion. "You are my first love. My only love. Back then, in high school, I didn't know what to do with those feelings. And then I left. But even with all the years and all the distance—no one else ever made my heart feel the way you do."
Lena's hands flew to her mouth as her eyes welled up with tears.
"Meeting you again… falling in love with you all over again… it's the best thing that's ever happened to me." His voice wavered just slightly, thick with feeling. "I want to spend every day proving that to you. I want to wake up beside you, laugh with you, hold your hand when life gets hard, and kiss you goodnight for the rest of our lives."
He pulled out a velvet box, revealing a simple but elegant diamond ring.
"Lena Kim," he said, "Will you marry me?"
Lena's lips trembled. Her chest was tight with emotion, her heart full. She nodded, unable to speak at first.
"Yes," she whispered, and then louder, firmer, with tears streaming down her cheeks. "Yes, Ethan."
He stood, sliding the ring onto her finger with trembling hands before pulling her into his arms. Their lips met in a kiss that was soft at first, then deeper, pouring years of longing into it. His hands cradled her face as she melted against him, her fingers tangling in his hair. When they finally pulled apart, breathless, he rested his forehead against hers.
"I can't believe you did all this," she whispered.
Ethan smiled up at her. "Believe it. You said yes, and now you're stuck with me."
"I think I can live with that," she whispered, laughing as she pulled him up into a warm embrace.
He wrapped his arms around her, holding her close, his lips brushing her temple. "You've always been it for me, Lena. I just had to find my way back."
"I love you,"he murmured.
"I love you too," she whispered back.
Nearby, James and Sophie watched from a respectful distance, their fingers intertwined as they witnessed Ethan and Lena's moment. A soft smile played on James's lips as Ethan knelt down. "Took him long enough," he murmured.
Sophie laughed quietly, eyes gleaming with affection. She leaned into him and whispered just loud enough for him to hear, "So… when's your turn, Mr. James Calloway?"
James chuckled, slipping his arm around her waist and pulling her in. "Pressure much?" he teased.
Sophie grinned. "Just saying. Rings look good on me."
He pressed a kiss to her temple, murmuring, "Noted," though the glint in his eyes hinted that the idea wasn't too far from his mind either.
A few moments later, as Ethan finally stood, still holding Lena's hand as if letting go wasn't an option, James and Sophie stepped forward.
"Congratulations," Sophie beamed, hugging Lena warmly. "You looked like a literal fairytale just now."
Lena flushed but smiled, still dazed in the best way. "Thank you. I still feel like I'm floating."
James clapped Ethan on the back with a grin. "Nicely done, man. About time you made it official."
Ethan smirked. "I have waited for this moment for so long."
"You two are perfect," Sophie said, her voice sincere as she looked between them. "Seriously. I've never seen you this happy, Lena."
"And I've never been this happy," Lena replied, her gaze shifting to Ethan, her smile deepening.
*****
Lena could barely keep the smile off her face the next morning as she stood outside her mum's apartment. Her fingers toyed with the ring on her left hand, still not used to the weight of it—both physically and emotionally. It sparkled softly in the daylight, a quiet, beautiful reminder that the night before hadn't been a dream.
She raised her hand and knocked.
A few seconds later, the door opened. Her mother's face lit up. "Lena! I wasn't expecting you so early."
"I know," Lena said, stepping in and giving her mum a warm hug. "But I had something I really wanted to tell you."
Her mother narrowed her eyes in that familiar, suspicious-but-curious way. "You're smiling like a girl with a secret. What happened?"
Lena took a seat on the couch, her heart fluttering as she reached out and gently placed her left hand on her mother's. "I'm engaged."
Her mother blinked. "What?"
Lena lifted her hand and turned it slightly, letting the sunlight catch the ring. "Ethan proposed last night."
There was a beat of silence—long enough for Lena to feel nervous. Then her mother's hand flew to her mouth, eyes widening.
"Oh my god. Oh, sweetheart." Her voice cracked slightly as she reached forward, grabbing both of Lena's hands. "You're engaged?"
Lena laughed, nodding. "Yes. He brought me to this beautiful park after dinner with his aunt and Sophie and James… and he got down on one knee. I was completely stunned."
Her mother smiled through glistening eyes, brushing a thumb over Lena's knuckles. "And you said yes."
"I didn't even hesitate," Lena said softly. "It just felt right. It feels right."
Her mum leaned back, visibly moved. "I always knew Ethan was different. I saw it in the way he looked at you, the way you talk about him. He cares for you deeply."
Lena nodded. "He's the most thoughtful, patient, and loving man I've ever met. He makes me feel safe, seen, and… free."
There was a long pause before her mother said, more quietly, "You know, for a while, I worried you were too hurt by the past to ever open yourself up again. But seeing you now, I'm glad you didn't let it keep you from something this beautiful."
"I think I needed to break first," Lena admitted. "To let go of what wasn't right for me before I could really understand what I deserved."
Her mum stood, pulling Lena into a tight hug. "I'm proud of you. And I'm so happy for you, baby."
Lena squeezed her eyes shut, leaning into the embrace. "Thank you, Mum. Really."
When they pulled apart, her mum grinned and said, "Now tell me everything. I want all the details—from the proposal to the dinner to what you wore."
Lena laughed, heart full. "Deal. But only if I can make us some coffee while I tell it."
Her mum waved her toward the kitchen. "Go. You're about to be a married woman—I suppose I can let you take over the coffee machine."
As the warm aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the house, Lena recounted every moment—Ethan's carefully chosen words, the soft string lights swaying in the breeze, her own surprise and joy when she saw him kneeling with the ring. Her mum soaked it all in, eyes misty but smiling, like she was memorizing every word.
Just as Lena placed two mugs on the table, there was a knock at the door.
She exchanged a look with her mum. "That'll be him."
Her mum arched a brow, clearly trying to stay composed. "Well, don't keep your fiancé waiting."
Lena opened the door to find Ethan standing there in a soft blue shirt and slacks, holding a small bouquet of fresh lilies and daisies. His smile was boyish and slightly nervous—something Lena rarely saw, and it made her chest flutter.
"For you," he said, holding the flowers out to her mum the moment she appeared behind Lena.
"Oh," her mum said, touched. "Thank you, Ethan. Come in."
They all moved into the living room. Lena sat beside Ethan, her hand casually brushing his. Her mum took her spot across from them with a warm but amused smile.
"So, you proposed," her mum said. "I mean… already."
Ethan gave a small nod, his voice steady. "Yes. I know it's soon. But I've known for a long time. And I promise—I'll love her the way she deserves."
Her mum gave him a playful look. "Honestly? I'm glad it's you."
Ethan's expression softened. "Thank you. I promise I'll do everything I can to make her happy."
"I don't doubt that," her mum said. "Just remember she's got a stubborn streak. Comes from me."
Lena groaned. "Thanks, Mum."
They all laughed.
After a few more exchanges, her mum stood and clapped her hands together. "Well then, how about we celebrate with some cake?"
As Ethan helped her bring plates from the kitchen, Lena leaned back into the couch, watching them both with a quiet smile. It felt… right. Safe. Like home.
Final: All This Time, It Was You
Lena stood in the middle of Ethan's penthouse living room, surrounded by half-unpacked boxes, folded garments, and picture frames waiting for their place on the walls. This place, once sleek and minimalist, now bore signs of a shared life—a coffee mug that was hers, a cozy throw draped over the couch, a faint scent of her perfume clinging to the air. It was no longer just Ethan's home.
It was theirs.
"Are you sure you're okay with me taking over your wardrobe space?" she called out, teasing as she tried to make room in one of his cabinets for her dresses.
Ethan, who was crouched near the entryway sorting through tangled cables and spare keys, looked up with a soft grin. "You mean our wardrobe now? Take all the space you need. I've already sacrificed a shelf for your skincare arsenal—what's next? Pink towels?"
Lena chuckled. "You say that like it's a bad thing."
He stood, walked over, and wrapped his arms around her from behind, pressing a light kiss to her shoulder. "It's not. It's perfect. Just like you."
The past few weeks had been a whirlwind of wedding preparations. Lena had poured her heart into every detail—from the soft blush and ivory floral palette to the handwritten place cards and the late-night cake tasting sessions. Ethan had been there through it all—quietly supportive, endlessly patient. He let her pick the theme, the dress, even the ceremony music. Not once did he complain about the endless meetings or last-minute changes. But when she needed guidance, a second opinion, or simply someone to hold her through a wave of indecision, he was always there.
Now, the planning had come to an end. The night before, they'd held hands over dinner and smiled, realizing tomorrow was no longer just a date on a calendar.
It was their beginning.
"You nervous?" he asked, his voice low against her ear.
Lena shook her head. "Not at all."
He arched a brow, pulling back to look at her face. "Not even a little?"
She smiled, eyes shining. "Only excited. I think the moment I started unpacking into your home… was the moment it stopped feeling scary."
Ethan's gaze softened, fingers brushing back a lock of hair from her face. "Then I guess I better make sure I never give you a reason to pack again."
"You won't."
They stood like that for a long moment, soaking in the quiet joy of their last day before becoming husband and wife. There was no chaos. No jitters. Just peace.
Later that evening, Lena tucked the last of her boxes into the spare room. Ethan brought out a bottle of wine, and they toasted to their final night as fiancés.
"To you, for making my life feel like home," she said.
"To us," he replied, eyes never leaving hers. "For every chapter still waiting to be written."
And as the stars lit up the city skyline outside their window, Lena leaned into Ethan's embrace and whispered, "I'm ready."
Because tomorrow, she wouldn't just be moving into his home.
She'd be stepping into forever.
*****
The morning sun filtered through the sheer curtains of the bridal suite, casting a soft glow across the room. Lena stood in front of the mirror in a delicate white gown, the lace hugging her form with gentle elegance. Her fingers trembled slightly as she adjusted her veil, nerves and excitement fluttering in her chest like wings.
A knock sounded at the door, and her mother stepped in, her eyes already glistening with emotion.
"You look just like I did on my wedding day," her mother whispered, her voice catching as she reached out to fix a loose strand of Lena's hair.
Lena smiled. "I was hoping I'd be half as beautiful as you."
"You're even more than that," her mum said softly. She paused, then added, "I know I've said it before, but… I'm really proud of you, Lena. For walking away when it was hard. For choosing yourself. And for letting someone in again—someone who truly sees you."
Lena blinked back tears. "Thank you for everything, mum."
They embraced tightly, the kind of hug that carried years of love, heartbreak, and healing.
Later, Sophie burst into the room, her hair pinned up, makeup flawless, and a wide grin on her face.
"Bride check! Gown, veil, nerves—yep, all here," she teased, then her eyes softened. "Lena, you're glowing."
Lena turned to her best friend and pulled her into a hug. "Thank you for always being there. Through everything."
Sophie pulled back slightly, brushing a tear from her cheek. "Always. And for the record, you're about to marry one of the hottest, sweetest men alive. If you weren't so perfect for each other, I'd steal him."
They both laughed.
"Well," Sophie said with a wink, "I'm about to add to the love in the room."
She reached into her small clutch and pulled out a folded sonogram.
Lena's eyes widened. "Wait—"
"I'm pregnant," Sophie grinned. "James and I just found out. You're the first to know."
Lena gasped, her eyes filling. "Sophie! Oh my god!" She threw her arms around her best friend. "This is the best wedding gift ever."
"Consider it payback for stealing Ethan before I had the chance," Sophie joked, dabbing at her tears.
Downstairs, Ethan stood near the altar, adjusting the cuff of his suit with a slight fidget. James clapped a hand on his shoulder.
"Never seen you this nervous," James said with a smirk.
Ethan exhaled, a smile tugging at his lips. "I'm not nervous. I'm just… overwhelmed. In a good way."
James nodded, more serious now. "You deserve this. After everything. Lena's the best thing that ever happened to you."
"I know," Ethan said, his voice thick with emotion. "She's my peace. My home."
As the music swelled and the doors opened, everyone rose. Ethan's breath caught.
Lena walked down the aisle slowly, her gaze locked on him. Every step felt like the closing of one chapter and the beginning of another. One where pain didn't rule her, where trust was no longer fragile, and love—real, safe, unconditional—was hers to keep.
When she reached him, Ethan gently took her hands. "Hi," he whispered.
"Hi," she returned, tears already stinging her eyes.
The ceremony was simple but powerful. When it came time for their vows, Ethan held her hand tightly.
"I've loved you for longer than you know," he said, voice steady. "And every day since you let me in, I've only fallen deeper. You're everything I didn't know I was waiting for. And today, I promise to love you, protect you, and build a life that's worthy of you."
Lena's voice trembled. "You came into my life when I was broken. And instead of turning away, you stayed. You helped me believe again. I don't just love you, Ethan—I trust you with every piece of me. You are my safest place."
As the officiant pronounced them husband and wife, Ethan kissed her—slow and reverent, full of everything they had survived to reach this moment.
Their friends cheered, Sophie cried unabashedly, and James punched the air like a proud best man.
Later that night, under a sky littered with stars, Ethan pulled Lena aside from the celebration and wrapped his arms around her waist.
"Mrs. Calloway," he murmured, brushing her ear with his lips.
Lena laughed softly. "I like the sound of that."
"I still can't believe it," she said, leaning into his chest. "All those years… and it was you all along."
"Next stop," Sophie interrupted with a laugh as she passed by, "Auntie Lena duties!"
Lena turned to her. "Have you told James?"
"Just did," Sophie smiled. "He turned white, then red, then looked like he was going to cry and laugh at the same time. Classic Calloway reaction."
James wandered over with two champagne flutes and a dazed smile. "I'm going to be a dad," he said to no one in particular.
Ethan patted his back. "Welcome to the rest of your life."
Later, as the night slowed and the crowd thinned, Ethan took Lena's hand and pressed a kiss to her knuckles.
He pulled back to look at her. "Ready for forever?"
She nodded. "With you? Always."
*****
THE END