Chapter 116: Will you marry me?
Ash slowly blinked awake, the morning light filtering softly through the curtains. As his eyes adjusted to the soft glow, the first thing he saw was Elijah’s face, peaceful and relaxed in sleep.
A small smile tugged at his lips as he took in the sight of the man he loved more than anything in the world. Elijah’s features were softened in sleep, his dark lashes fanned across his cheeks, his lips slightly parted as he breathed evenly. Ash felt a warmth spread through his chest, a happiness so pure and profound that it was almost overwhelming.
For a moment, he simply lay there, absorbing the quiet beauty of the morning and the man beside him. Everything felt right. The storm that had once raged in their lives had passed, leaving behind a calm, a serenity that Ash had never thought possible.
They had been through so much—pain, misunderstandings, longing—but here they were, together, stronger than ever. It felt like a dream, one that Ash never wanted to end.
He gently reached out, brushing a lock of hair away from Elijah’s forehead. The love he felt for Elijah was indescribable, a force that had carried him through the darkest of times and brought him into the light.
Ash couldn’t help but silently thank life, the universe, or whatever force had brought them together and kept them together. Finally, his life was on track, heading toward a future filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities. He felt so grateful for this journey, for the way they had fought for each other, for the way their love had blossomed against all odds.
As he continued to watch Elijah, the man began to stir. His eyes fluttered open, and when they met Ash’s, a slow, sleepy smile spread across his face.
"Good morning," Elijah murmured, his voice deep and husky with sleep.
"Good morning," Ash replied while blushing slightly. "I was just watching you sleep. You looked so peaceful."
Elijah chuckled, pulling Ash closer to him, his arms wrapping around him in a warm embrace. "I’m glad you enjoyed the show. I could get used to waking up like this every day."
Ash nestled into Elijah’s chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath his ear. "Me too," he whispered. "I’m so happy, Elijah. It feels like everything is finally falling into place."