Arthur took both of Zoe’s hands and began to speak, his voice steady but filled with emotion.

“Zoe, from the moment I met you—with your mix of wild spontaneity and that calm, responsible side—I knew you were the woman who would change my life. Your smile soothes my soul. Your strength inspires me. You weren’t easy to win over, and that only made me want you more. You challenged me. From the start, you made your values and your boundaries clear—and that captivated me.

I told myself, ‘She’s not a