~Few days later~
Coming back to America felt different this time. Maybe it was because, for the first time in a long while, it didn't feel like returning to chaos or unfinished battles. This time, we were coming home to something new.
I kept staring at my hand the entire flight, at the ring that sparkled under the cabin lights. It was so new and shiny. I loved replaying how he slipped it on my finger in Lisbon, under fairy lights and laughter, like he was promising me forever all over again — and somehow, it felt brand new. It was brand new. He was doing it properly this time and it felt so good.
Jace was beside me, pretending to read, though I knew he wasn't actually turning the pages. He kept sneaking glances at me from behind the book like I wouldn't notice.
"What is it this time Don Romano?" I said without looking up from the glass of champagne in my hand.
He lowered the book slowly, that smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "I'm admiring my wife. Is that a crime?"
