Invitation

"Take two days to think it over. I hope you won't turn me down." Eric chuckled softly as he walked to the side and turned on the speaker, letting gentle music flow through the room.

He came over and picked up Ella, carrying her to the large floor-to-ceiling window. Together, they looked out at the ocean, now tinged red by the morning sun.

"Watch the sea with me," Eric said with a smile, gently kissing Ella's stunned face.

Ella was completely dumbfounded. She couldn't understand why Eric was in such a rush to marry her. Was there some hidden agenda?

She had to admit, she loved Eric too, but her past wounds made it hard for her to trust men easily.

Eric gently intertwined his fingers with hers. Ella leaned against his shoulder, watching the shimmering sea, the soaring seagulls, listening to the beautiful music, and the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks outside the window...