He saw the woman behind the reputation.
And suddenly, he knew what he wanted.
He had been considering marriage for weeks, but he had delayed because he feared the reaction of others. He feared his sisters’ judgment, Raquel’s friends’ suspicions, and the possibility that his proposal might expose every insecurity he still carried.
But he also understood something.
If he kept waiting until nobody could criticize their relationship, he might wait forever.
He approached the small stage where the guests had gathered.
“Excuse me,” he said into the microphone. “I would like to say something.”
Raquel turned toward him, smiling.
“What are you doing?” she whispered when he reached her.
“Something I should have done sooner.”
He took her hand.
“Raquel, when I first met you, I thought you were a wealthy woman who could change my circumstances. I was afraid of your money because I didn’t want it to decide who I became.”
