Page 49 of Accidental Orc Daddy

"Mmm, I'm in heaven," I say, popping a gooey rib in my mouth. "Seriously, babe, you've outdone yourself. Best barbecue ever."

Mustaf's chest puffs up proudly at my praise. "Why, thank you. I'll be sure to whip up more feasts like this for our future family gatherings."

The day is perfect, and after food, I sit against a tree, cradling my belly.

I lean into the shade, smiling as I watch my mother trying to teach Mustaf's little cousins a hand-clapping game. Their delighted squeals every time they mess up make me chuckle.

Mustaf settles next to me, sneakily brushing his fingers against mine. "Having a nice time, my dear?"

I lace my hand with his. "It's perfect. I'm so glad our families are really coming together."

He smiles, but he seems distracted. I notice him checking his watch.

"Everything okay?" I ask.

"Hmm? Oh yes, fine," he says vaguely. "I'm going to get us some lemonade."

He presses a quick kiss to my temple before disappearing into the crowd. I watch him go, bemused by his behavior. But soon I'm drawn back into the festivities as my aunt calls out.

"Meiko! Come join us for this game!"

I make my way over, noticing Mustaf on his phone behind a tree, whispering urgently.

I'm so caught up cheering on my cousin in a three-legged race that I don't register the lull in activity until it's completely quiet. I glance around in confusion. Where did everyone go?

A whirring makes me look up. My eyes go wide at the sight of drones rising into the sunset sky, lights blinking. They move seamlessly into the shape of a giant, glowing heart.

"Oh my God..." I breathe.

I stare open-mouthed as the drones dance and loop through the darkening sky. Their lights flash in sync, outlining the giant heart against the sunset backdrop.

Fireworks suddenly explode in a dazzling display, lighting up the heavens. I gasp, hands flying to my face as bursts of red, gold, and green crackle and sparkle above us.

Each thunderous boom and crackle echoes the frantic beating of my heart. I'm swept away by the spectacle, reality blurred at the edges.

Then through the smoke, I see him. Mustaf, walking towards me with purposeful steps. The fireworks frame him in a halo of shimmering light. He holds something small in his hands.

My pulse is roaring in my ears as he drops down on one knee before me. Oh my God, is he...?

In his hands, he holds a small velvet box. My heart pounds deafeningly as he stops before me and sinks down to one knee.

The cheers of our families fade into the background. At this moment, it's just the two of us alone beneath the dazzling night sky.

I meet Mustaf's adoring gaze, seeing my own joy reflected back at me. With reverent care, he opens the box to reveal a perfect diamond ring nestled inside.

"Meiko, my love," he begins, voice overflowing with emotion. "From the moment I first saw you, I knew you were my destiny. We've endured so much together, and through it all, my love for you has only grown stronger. I got this new ring to symbolize the start of us for real this time. "

Tears of happiness run freely down my cheeks as he continues. "You are the missing piece of my soul. Will you make me the happiest orc in the world by becoming my wife?"

Tears blur my vision as I stare at the man before me, the love of my life, asking for my hand in marriage. Again. My heart feels close to bursting. I can only nod and choke out a tearful, "Yes!"

Our families erupt in raucous cheers and applause all around us, but I'm deaf to it all. At this moment, my universe has narrowed down to Mustaf alone as he takes my trembling hand in his.

I’m already wearing the ring from our first engagement, and I half expect him to pull it off. But as he ever so gently slides the new, glittering ring onto my finger, I realize it’s designed to nestle against the old one. I can wear both rings and be reminded of the memories that come with each one every day.

He stands, keeping hold of my hand, and I immediately throw my arms around his neck, clinging to him as tightly as I can. The fireworks above us booming in celebration are barely audible over my pounding heart.

After everything we suffered, all the hardship and heartache, we've finally found our way here. The promise of a real future together, made under the watchful stars.

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