The Proud CEO

They barely made it out of the building.

Cameras flashed from every corner. Reporters screamed questions. Eliana shielded her eyes, her free hand gripping Adrian's tightly.

"Is it true?"

"When is the wedding?"

"Was this planned?"

"Are you still CEO?"

Security pushed them toward the waiting car. Inside, the world felt muted. Almost safe.

Eliana's heart raced. Not from fear—she was used to pressure—but from the enormity of what they'd just done.

They were out. No more hiding. No more games.

Adrian reached into his jacket and pulled out a tiny box.

"Seriously?" she breathed, stunned.

"Maybe the timing's not perfect. Maybe nothing about us ever has been," he said, "but I don't want to wait."

He opened the box. Inside: a simple gold ring, elegant and timeless.

"Eliana Hart," he whispered, "Will you marry me?"

She laughed. Then cried.

And said the only word that mattered.

"Yes."