The guest room was small but clean and tidy, with bedding that smelled of sunshine.
“Rest for a while. Dinner will be ready soon,” Gabriel said gently as he set down my
suitcase.
I nodded and sat on the edge of the bed, watching the snowflakes drift past the window. I felt an unprecedented sense of peace and tranquility.
Perhaps this was what home felt like.
2
That evening, we sat around the dinner table eating a steaming hot Christmas Eve meal.
Mrs. Campbell continued to serve me food as she said, “Rachel dear, you must visit often. My door is always open for you.”
I smiled and nodded, warmth filling my heart.
After dinner, Gabriel suggested we take a walk in the nearby park. The winter park was nearly empty, with only a few couples huddled together, enjoying the rare quiet.
We strolled along the lake, neither of us speaking. Snowflakes drifted down gently, settling
on us like a thin veil.
“Thank you, Gabriel.” I broke the silence, speaking softly.
“For what?”
taking me in and giving me a warm sanctuary.”
Gabriel looked at me and teased with a smile, “How about repaying me with your hand in marriage?”
I froze for a moment, then huffed with mock arrogance. “In your dreams!”
Though I said this, ripples stirred in my heart.
1/3
Chapter 10
+25 Bonus
“Then tell me, how will you repay me? I’m the hero who rescued you from dire straits at the train station.”
