One year later.

The Vance Foundation hosted its annual Summer Gala at my private lakeside estate in Lake Norman—the very estate I had purchased after rising from the ashes of my old life.

Hundreds of sparkling fairy lights hung from the ancient oak trees surrounding the glass pavilion. The evening air was warm, filled with the soft sounds of a live jazz quartet and the happy laughter of guests.

I stood on the stone terrace overlooking the calm, shimmering water, wearing a magnificent emerald-green silk dress.

Julian stepped out from the pavilion, wearing a sharp black tuxedo, carrying two glasses of wine. He walked over, standing right beside me, slipping his arm around my waist.

"The board just confirmed our European expansion plans," Julian said gently, kissing the side of my neck. "We open our London office in October."

"London," I smiled, leaning back against his chest, enjoying his warmth. "Who would have thought a woman who lost everything four years ago would be taking over Europe?"

"I knew," Julian murmured, resting his chin on my shoulder. "From the very beginning."

He reached into his tuxedo pocket, pulling out a small velvet box, and opened it before my eyes. Inside rested a breathtaking, flawless yellow diamond ring that sparkled under the terrace lights.

My breath caught in my throat.

"Madeline Vance," Julian spoke, his voice filled with a deep, fierce, and unwavering love. "You built an empire with your mind. Now let me spend the rest of my life building a home with your heart. Will you marry me?"