chapter1324

After what felt like forever, they finally pulled apart. Lydia's cheeks were tinged with

a soft blush as she leaned against Connor's shoulder, her ear pressed close enough to hear his steady heartbeat. Connor gazed down at her, his eyes warm and tender, as if the whole world had melted away except for the two of them.

"Lydia, thank you, he whispered.

He was thanking her for agreeing to marry him. It felt almost unreal, like he was still dreaming. He was so afraid that if he woke up she might disappear or take it all back.

The reception was now in full swing. Guests poured in with their congratulations, surrounding Connor and Lydia with laughter and chatter. Connor could tell Lydia wasn't a fan of the crowded scene. He leaned close, his voice low and gentle in her ear. "Wanna go outside for some air?"

Lydia hesitated for just a moment, then smiled and nodded. Even though she couldn't see, she could feel the energy in the ballroom, the constant buzz of people coming up to offer their best wishes, never giving her and Connor a break.

At last, they found a chance to slip away. Connor took her hand and guided her through the throng, weaving them both toward the doors.

When Connor opened the ballroom doors, a rush of cold, fresh air greeted them. Lydia shivered a little. He immediately pulled her closer and shrugged off his jacket, draping it over her shoulders.

Just then, something light and cold brushed her cheek. She tilted her face upward, curious, and felt a few more of those cool, gentle touches land on her skin and eyelashes.

"Is it snowing?" she asked in a quiet voice.

Connor watched the tiny snowflakes settle on her face, his eyes full of affection. "Yeah, it's snowing."

He reached out and gently brushed the flakes from her lashes, his fingers moving so carefully it was like he was handling the most fragile thing in the world.

Lydia lifted her hand, letting the snowflakes fall into her palm and melt away. A pure, childlike smile spread across her face.

In Connor's eyes, she was

breathtaking. She looked almost otherworldly, like a fairy who'd stumbled into the human world. The snowdrifted down, giving her an almost magical glow, and the way she seemed so focused on the feeling of the snow made him want to memorize every second.

They stood together in the quiet, snowy night, just soaking in the peace and beauty around them Connor slipped his arms around her from behind, resting his chin lightly on her head.

"From now on," he murmured, "every time it snows, I'll be right here with you."

Lydia snuggled closer, her heart overflowing. She nodded, her voice soft. "Okay." Inside, the party was still going strong, but for Connor and Lydia, this snowy little corner of the world felt like it belonged just to them.

They wandered through the snow, Connor guiding Lydia with gentle care, watching her step so she wouldn't slip. Lydia clung to his arm, happiness lighting up her face.

Not too far away, a tall figure dressed in black stood perfectly still, his eyes fixed on the couple. After a long silence, he spoke quietly to himself.

Connor, if you ever hurt her, I'll make sure you pay for it.

After the reception, both families started making plans for Connor and Lydia's wedding. The Norwoods wanted Lydia to spend the New Year with them. She had only just come home, and the thought of hengetting married before the holidays was hard for them to accept. They suggested waiting until spring for the wedding.

The Jefferson family agreed, understanding that Lydia needed more time with her family.

"It's settled then. We'll choose a beautiful spring day and throw them the wedding they deserve," Mr. Norwood said, leaning on his cane, his whole face lit up with pride.

Grandpa Samuel nodded, grinning. Perfect. This is a big celebration for both our families. We have to make it unforgettable."