Chapter Nine

Bianca

I stare at the image of myself in the long dresser mirror in my room. Jason will be here soon and I can feel every nerve in my body humming with anticipation. It's been six months since we started dating officially and Jason has invited me out to dinner to celebrate our anniversary. For the occasion, I chose a shimmering blue dress that molds perfectly over my curves with a slit that runs up my thighs. Ronnie got me the dress on my last birthday and although it's gorgeous, I haven't really found the perfect occasion for it until now.

I do a little twirl, running my hands down the front of the dress as I try to imagine Jason's reaction when he sees me… I can almost imagine his eyes roaming possessively over my body, his lips turned up at the corners in that smug way that never fails to excite me.

The past six months have been amazing. Jason Ellsworth is the best any woman could ever wish for. He's gentle, kind, and the most supportive person I've ever met—to me. But, through Oliver's adoption battle he was fierce, sticking his toughest lawyers on the case with Clark and ensuring that Daniel never got an inch of wiggle room when it came to Oliver. Thanks to his efforts, and maybe some good old-fashioned scare tactics, it's been made clear that Daniel Graham has absolutely no claim of Oliver ever again.

These days, life has been pretty amazing and I'm happier than I ever thought possible. Having Oliver all to myself is a dream come true, and I'm now preparing for my college entrance exams. I couldn't have done any of that without Jason. He's turned my whole life around and now it seems like the universe is finally aligning in my favor.

Taking one last look in the mirror, I walk out of my bedroom into the living room where Ronnie is waiting with Oliver. She'd dressed him up in a cute little suit, his hair neatly combed to the side. He looks so grown up, and I can't help a big smile at the sight of him.

"Mommy!" He screams, running up to me. I stoop to his level and ruffle his hair, smiling into his face. "Don't you look just dandy, young man?" He giggles, moving into my outstretched arms. "One would think he's my date," I say, looking up at Ronnie over his head.

"I couldn't have my godson slacking," she says, flipping her hair over her shoulders with a sassy smile. I roll my eyes playfully at her before returning my attention to Oliver who's gently tugging my dress. "Yes, pumpkin?"

"Can I go play with my trucks before Daddy comes?"

For some reason, Oliver had started to call Jason Daddy right from their second meeting and Jason seemed to absolutely dig the title. He spoils Oliver silly and they've grown to become best friends. Not like I'm complaining; I definitely enjoy their bond and it always fills my heart with joy whenever I see them together.

"Yes, love," I reply. "But be careful not to rumple your clothes."

He nods quickly, already zooming off even before I complete my sentence. I shake my head, smiling fondly as I watch him go.

"Girl, you're gonna get in trouble with that dress," Ronnie says, running her eyes slowly over my figure with a cunning smile. "You look absolutely stunning."

I smile at her teasing, my stomach churning with a mix of excitement and nervousness. I know the dress is a little daring for a date night, but I want to make the most of this night with Jason.

"Thank you, Ronnie," I reply, twirling playfully. "I hope it's not too much?"

"Not at all," she assures me with a wink. "You're going to knock his socks off, girl."

"That's the plan," I chuckle, feeling the butterflies in my stomach fluttering wildly.

"Come on," Ronnie says, patting the space beside her. I go to join her on the couch, smiling when she takes my hands in hers and squeezes gently. "I'm so happy for you, Bianca… I'm so glad you finally found the happiness that you deserve."

I drop my gaze to our joint hand with a pensive sigh. "Do I really?" I ask in a small voice, finally letting out my fear.

"What are you talking about?" Ronnie asks, searching my face with a confused frown.

I shrug hesitantly. "Do I really deserve to be this happy?" I ask, looking at her again. "What if everything comes crashing down on me?"

"Not on my watch, Bianca," she says firmly, shaking her head at me. "I know how hard you've worked, how strong you've been… I won't allow you to destroy this new-found joy with fear. You deserve every good thing that comes your way and more, do you hear me?"

"Yes," I reply with a jerky nod, laughing when urges me to speak loudly. "Yes, I do! I deserve to be happy."

"You just have to believe it," Ronnie says with an encouraging smile. "On that note, since you're the kindest, and the most amazing person I know, will you be my baby's godmother?"

I gasp, looking down at her flat stomach and back up at her smiling face in disbelief. "Are you… you're pregnant?"

She nods, smiling through the tears that are gathering in her eyes. "Yes! Yes, finally!"

I throw my hands around her neck with an excited squeal. "Congratulations, Ron."

We hold each other for a while, laughing and doing our best not to cry. Ronnie had been trying for a child for a while now and I know how distressed she has been over the constant failures.

"Now, now, don't ruin your make-up," she chides, squeezing my hands again.

We say our goodbyes and she zooms off. Jason arrives shortly later, immediately pulling me into his arms to capture my lips in a possessive kiss.

"Damn, you look gorgeous," he says, his eyes greedily roaming my body and face. "I'm tempted to cancel dinner and savor you in that dress."

I laugh despite the warmth spreading across my face. "I'm glad you love it."

"I love you," he says, his eyes boring deeply into mine.

It's not the first time he's saying the words to me, but the impact is just as powerful.

"I love you too," I whisper, feeling a flutter of butterflies in my stomach when his eyes brighten up at my response. "But we have reservations, and I'm starving."

He chuckles, letting me go reluctantly. "You win this round, but don't think you've escaped me later tonight," he says with a playful wink.

"Is that a threat or a promise?" I tease, feeling a thrill of anticipation at his words.

"A little bit of both," he replies with a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Now, where's my little champ?"

Oliver runs out of his room just in time, his face lighting up when he sees Jason standing in the living room. "Daddy!" he exclaims, running up to Jason with open arms.

Jason scoops him up effortlessly, laughing as Oliver wraps his small arms around his neck. "There's my little champ!" he says, hugging him tightly.

I watch the two of them, my chest swelling with joy. Right then and there, I decided to fight for this… No matter what happens, I'm going to hold on to this happiness forever.

Dinner is at a fancy Italian restaurant in the upscale part of town. The atmosphere is elegant and inviting, with soft lighting, warm colors, and the soothing sounds of a live pianist playing in the background. The tables are set with crisp white linens and delicate glassware, giving the place a refined touch.

Jason, ever the gentleman, takes my hand as we walk into the restaurant with Oliver, who is holding his other hand. His touch is reassuring, a silent promise of the wonderful evening ahead. We are seated at a cozy corner table that offers us a sense of privacy and intimacy.

As I stare at the menu, Jason takes my hand in his, tracing gentle circles on the back of my palm.

"Are you in the mood for anything specific?" he asks, his gaze locked onto mine.

"I'll let you surprise me," I reply with a smile, enjoying the anticipation of what he might choose for us.

The waiter arrives, and Jason orders a delicious array of Italian dishes, including some of my favorites—arancini, bruschetta, and a creamy pasta dish that makes my mouth water just hearing about it. He also orders a bottle of red wine for us and a special drink for Oliver.

Oliver's eyes light up as the waiter brings him a fruity mocktail with a colorful umbrella garnish. He sips it happily, chattering about his day at school and the latest adventures of his toy trucks. Jason listens to him intently, engaging with him and asking questions about his day.

We settle into a comfortable conversation, sharing stories and laughter as we wait for our food. The stress and worries of the day melt away in the warmth of Jason's company and Oliver's playful energy. As dinner arrives, each dish is presented beautifully, and the flavors are exquisite. Jason always seems to know exactly what I enjoy, making the evening even more special.

As we eat, we steal glances and touches, the air between is charged. Oliver, oblivious of anything going on, continues to enjoy his food and occasionally joins our conversation, his laughter filling the room.

After the main course ended and dessert was served, I looked around the empty restaurant and back at Jason who was watching me with an indecipherable expression. For a moment, I wondered if it was apprehension that I glimpsed in his eyes, but I decided I was wrong when the corner of his mouth turned upward in an amused smile.

"I noticed there aren't any other customers around and I was wondering if you knew anything about that?"

Jason's smile widens at my question, his gaze meeting mine with a hint of playfulness. "Well, I might have reserved the whole restaurant."

"My God, you're unbelievable," I say, shaking my head at him playfully.

He nods, his smile unwavering. "It's a special night and I wanted to make it magical."

"That must have cost you a fortune."

Jason's expression turns tender as he looks at me. "I would buy the entire restaurant for you at the snap of a finger… I'd do anything, if it would make you happy, Bianca."

I can't help but feel a warmth spread through my chest at his words. "You spoil us, Jason," I say, trying to hide the flutter of butterflies in my stomach. "It's not necessary to go to such great lengths, but it does make this night special. Oliver looks like he's having a blast."

Oliver, who has been focused on his dessert, perks up at the mention of his name. "Is it time, Daddy?" He asks excitedly, looking from me to Jason. "Are you gonna kneel for mommy now?"

"What is he talking about?" I ask, turning to Jason with confusion.

But before I can make sense of Oliver's words, I notice Jason is suddenly down on one knee, right next to my chair, with a small velvet box resting in his palm. My heart stops, my breath catching in my throat as I stare at him in disbelief.

"Bianca, you light up my life," Jason begins, his voice firm yet apprehensive. "You've changed me in ways I never thought possible. I can't imagine my life without you, and I don't want to."

He opens the box, revealing a stunning ring with a beautiful purple stone in the center. "So, I humbly ask you to spend forever with me; will you marry me, Bianca?"

Tears well up in my eyes as I take in the moment, overwhelmed by emotion. I glance at Oliver, who is beaming with excitement, and then back at Jason, who's waiting for me, his eyes filled with hope and love and a host of other beautiful emotions,

"Yes," I whisper, my voice catching slightly. I nod, laughing through my tears. "Yes, Jason, I'll marry you."

Jason's face breaks into a wide grin as he slips the ring onto my finger. I can't help but laugh through my tears as Oliver rushes over to hug us both, his small arms wrapping around us. The moment is pure magic, and I have to resist the urge to pinch myself.

This isn't a dream… no dream feels so vivid. So real.

Jason stands up, pulling me into his arms for a long, languorous kiss and when we finally pull apart, he wraps his arms around me in a tight hug.

Oliver clings to my leg, giggling as he joins the group hug. "I buy the ring with Daddy!" He announces loudly with a childish giggle.

I burst into laughter and Jason joins in, fondly ruffling Oliver's hair. Then Oliver opens his arms and Jason picks him up, swirling him around in the air. Oliver's squeals of delight mingle perfectly with Jason's deep-throated laughter. I watch them both, my heart feeling up with an overwhelming joy all over again.

Finally, I'm living my dream.