Chapter 10 - Five More Years, and Five More After That
Two years later.
The sunset over Lake Michigan cast a golden glow across the terrace of the Bennett-Moretti estate. The gentle sound of waves lapping against the private shoreline blended with the laughter of guests gathered on the manicured lawn.
Julian Bennett sat in a comfortable wicker armchair, a glass of iced tea in hand, smiling warmly as he watched the scene unfold.
Alexander stood near the terrace railing, holding a crystal glass of sparkling cider. He looked healthier, happier, and younger than he had in a decade. The cold shadow of the mafia king had been replaced by the quiet dignity of a man who knew his true purpose.
From the French doors, Claire stepped out onto the patio. She was radiant, wearing a flowing blush-pink maternity dress that accentuated the gentle, unmistakable swell of her seven-month pregnancy.
Alexander set his glass down instantly, moving across the stone terrace to meet her, wrapping his arms securely around her waist and kissing her softly on the temple.
""You should be resting, my love,"" he murmured tenderly, resting his large palm against the curve of her stomach. As if on cue, a tiny, vigorous kick fluttered beneath his fingers.
Alexander’s eyes widened, a wide, boyish grin spreading across his handsome face. ""Did you feel that? He kicked right against my palm!""
""Or she kicked,"" Claire laughed softly, wrapping her arms around his neck. ""Dr. Evans says the baby is growing perfectly. Strong heartbeat, healthy development.""
Alexander rested his forehead against hers, closing his eyes, letting the immense gratitude wash over him. ""Every day I look at you, I feel like a man who was given heaven after walking through hell.""
""We built this heaven together, Alexander,"" she whispered.
Alexander reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a small velvet box. Claire arched an eyebrow playfully. ""Another gift, Mr. Moretti? Didn't you already buy out the entire nursery boutique yesterday?""
""Open it,"" he said softly.
Claire took the box and clicked it open. Inside rested a delicate platinum necklace, holding a brilliant solitaire emerald surrounded by a halo of tiny pavé diamonds, shaped like a blooming blossom. Engraved on the back were three numbers: 5 + 5 + Forever.
""On that mountain, I gave you diamonds because I thought expensive stones could make up for the time I wasn't giving you,"" Alexander said, his voice thick with emotion. ""I was wrong. This emerald represents rebirth. It represents our second chance.""
He took the necklace out, carefully unfastening the clasp. Claire turned, lifting her glossy hair as Alexander fastened the cool chain around her neck. His fingers lingered on her shoulders, planting a warm kiss against the crook of her neck.
""Five more years, Claire,"" Alexander whispered against her skin, repeating the words that had once broken her heart, but this time infusing them with an unbreakable, eternal vow. ""And five more after that. And every lifetime that follows.""
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Claire turned in his embrace, placing both of her hands over his chest, feeling the steady, devoted beat of his heart. She stood on her tiptoes, pressing her lips to his in a passionate, lingering kiss that tasted of sweet promise and hard-won peace.
The wind rustled the leaves of the blooming cherry trees around them, carrying away the ghosts of the past, leaving only the warmth of a love that had survived the snow."
