Page 18 of Protective Boss
I watch the two of them, my chest swelling with joy. Right then and there, I decided to fight for this… No matter what happens, I'm going to hold on to this happiness forever.
Dinner is at a fancy Italian restaurant in the upscale part of town. The atmosphere is elegant and inviting, with soft lighting, warm colors, and the soothing sounds of a live pianist playing in the background. The tables are set with crisp white linens and delicate glassware, giving the place a refined touch.
Jason, ever the gentleman, takes my hand as we walk into the restaurant with Oliver, who is holding his other hand. His touch is reassuring, a silent promise of the wonderful evening ahead. We are seated at a cozy corner table that offers us a sense of privacy and intimacy.
As I stare at the menu, Jason takes my hand in his, tracing gentle circles on the back of my palm.
“Are you in the mood for anything specific?” he asks, his gaze locked onto mine.
“I’ll let you surprise me,” I reply with a smile, enjoying the anticipation of what he might choose for us.
The waiter arrives, and Jason orders a delicious array of Italian dishes, including some of my favorites—arancini, bruschetta, and a creamy pasta dish that makes my mouth water just hearing about it. He also orders a bottle of red wine for us and a special drink for Oliver.
Oliver's eyes light up as the waiter brings him a fruity mocktail with a colorful umbrella garnish. He sips it happily, chattering about his day at school and the latest adventures of his toy trucks. Jason listens to him intently, engaging with him and asking questions about his day.
We settle into a comfortable conversation, sharing stories and laughter as we wait for our food. The stress and worries of the day melt away in the warmth of Jason's company and Oliver's playful energy. As dinner arrives, each dish is presented beautifully, and the flavors are exquisite. Jason always seems to know exactly what I enjoy, making the evening even more special.
As we eat, we steal glances and touches, the air between is charged. Oliver, oblivious of anything going on, continues to enjoy his food and occasionally joins our conversation, his laughter filling the room.
After the main course ended and dessert was served, I looked around the empty restaurant and back at Jason who was watching me with an indecipherable expression. For a moment, I wondered if it was apprehension that I glimpsed in his eyes, but I decided I was wrong when the corner of his mouth turned upward in an amused smile.
“I noticed there aren't any other customers around and I was wondering if you knew anything about that?”
Jason's smile widens at my question, his gaze meeting mine with a hint of playfulness. “Well, I might have reserved the whole restaurant.”
“My God, you're unbelievable,” I say, shaking my head at him playfully.
He nods, his smile unwavering. "It's a special night and I wanted to make it magical.”
“That must have cost you a fortune.”
Jason's expression turns tender as he looks at me. “I would buy the entire restaurant for you at the snap of a finger… I'd do anything, if it would make you happy, Bianca.”
I can't help but feel a warmth spread through my chest at his words. "You spoil us, Jason," I say, trying to hide the flutter of butterflies in my stomach. “It's not necessary to go to such great lengths, but it does make this night special. Oliver looks like he's having a blast.”
Oliver, who has been focused on his dessert, perks up at the mention of his name. “Is it time, Daddy?” He asks excitedly, looking from me to Jason. “Are you gonna kneel for mommy now?”
“What is he talking about?” I ask, turning to Jason with confusion.
But before I can make sense of Oliver's words, I notice Jason is suddenly down on one knee, right next to my chair, with a small velvet box resting in his palm. My heart stops, my breath catching in my throat as I stare at him in disbelief.
“Bianca, you light up my life,” Jason begins, his voice firm yet apprehensive. “You've changed me in ways I never thought possible. I can't imagine my life without you, and I don't want to.”
He opens the box, revealing a stunning ring with a beautiful purple stone in the center. “So, I humbly ask you to spend forever with me; will you marry me, Bianca?”
Tears well up in my eyes as I take in the moment, overwhelmed by emotion. I glance at Oliver, who is beaming with excitement, and then back at Jason, who's waiting for me, his eyes filled with hope and love and a host of other beautiful emotions,
"Yes," I whisper, my voice catching slightly. I nod, laughing through my tears. “Yes, Jason, I'll marry you.”
Jason's face breaks into a wide grin as he slips the ring onto my finger. I can't help but laugh through my tears as Oliver rushes over to hug us both, his small arms wrapping around us. The moment is pure magic, and I have to resist the urge to pinch myself.
This isn't a dream… no dream feels so vivid. So real.
Jason stands up, pulling me into his arms for a long, languorous kiss and when we finally pull apart, he wraps his arms around me in a tight hug.
Oliver clings to my leg, giggling as he joins the group hug. “I buy the ring with Daddy!” He announces loudly with a childish giggle.
I burst into laughter and Jason joins in, fondly ruffling Oliver's hair. Then Oliver opens his arms and Jason picks him up, swirling him around in the air. Oliver's squeals of delight mingle perfectly with Jason's deep-throated laughter. I watch them both, my heart feeling up with an overwhelming joy all over again.