Julian slowly dropped down to his right knee right in the center of the polished oak floorboards. Clara raised her left hand to her mouth in utter disbelief as the entire room gasped in unison around them.
Julian reached deep into his inner breast pocket and pulled out a small box covered in dark red velvet. With a swift movement of his thumb, he clicked the brass clasp open, revealing a flawless three-carat diamond ring that caught the sparkling chandelier light.
Julian: Will you marry me and stay by my side forever?
Clara: Julian... we have only known each other for eight months!
Julian: Eight months was more than enough time to see the purity of your heart, Clara.
Victoria took two sharp steps forward, her face turning pale as she pointed a manicured finger at the kneeling man.
Victoria: Julian Sterling, your mother will never approve of an engagement to a bankrupt family!
Julian: My mother was the one who handed me this ring before she passed away last summer.
An audible gasp echoed through the crowd as Victoria stepped back, her jaw dropping in complete humiliation. Clara felt fresh tears streaming down her face, but this time they were born from pure overwhelming relief and warmth.
Clara: Yes, Julian! Yes, I will marry you!
Julian slid the heavy platinum ring onto her slender ring finger before standing up to pull her close. The surrounding guests burst into enthusiastic applause, their earlier cruel laughter replaced by loud cheers and supportive murmurs.
Richard: Congratulations to the both of you, marvelous news!
Julian: Thank you, Richard, I hope you enjoy the rest of your evening.
Clara buried her face against Julian's crisp black tuxedo lapel, feeling his strong arms wrapping securely around her waist. The framed American flag hanging on the wall behind them seemed to shine under the soft golden light of the grand ballroom.
Julian: Nobody in this town will ever disrespect you again, my love.
Clara: I never cared about their respect, Julian, I only ever wanted someone true.
Julian: Then you have me for the rest of your life.
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