Chapter 0392
As we entered the beautifully decorated living room, it felt like stepping into a winter wonderland. The towering Christmas tree glistened with ornaments and lights, and garlands of evergreen adorned the grand staircase. Soft, festive music filled the air, and the room was aglow with the warm light of countless candles.
Our guests, a mix of friends, family, and colleagues, mingled around, sipping on champagne and enjoying the holiday cheer. I spotted Chloe chatting animatedly with Leah over by the bar. They both raised their glasses and waved at us as we entered.
Dinner was just as lavish as the party, with a feast of gourmet dishes served by our attentive staff; I had picked out the menu. The clinking of silverware and the murmur of conversation filled the room as we all enjoyed the delicious meal. Karl and I shared smiles and stolen glances throughout, our love for each other evident to anyone who cared to look.
But it was after dinner, during the festivities, that Karl made a memory I would never forget. He stood up from his seat and cleared his throat, capturing the attention of our guests.
“Ladies and gentlemen,” he began, his voice filled with warmth and sincerity, “if I could have your attention for just a moment.”
The room fell silent as everyone turned to look at him, curiosity in their eyes. I felt my heart race in anticipation of what he was about to say.
Karl continued, “Tonight, I want to make a special toast to someone who means the world to me. Someone who has brought so much love and joy into my life. Abby, my beautiful wife, this one’s for you.”
He raised his champagne flute, and all eyes turned to me. I felt a blush creep up my cheeks as he spoke. “Abby, you are not only the most stunning woman in this room, but you are also the most loving, caring, and wonderful wife a man could ask for. I am truly the luckiest man alive to have you by my side.”
Tears welled up in my eyes as I listened to his heartfelt words. The room erupted in applause and cheers, and I felt a little bashful under their gazes.
Karl approached me, his eyes filled with love and adoration, and he gently brushed a strand of hair behind my ear. “I love you,” he whispered so only I could hear.
I smiled through my tears and whispered back, “I love you too, Karl.”
And then, as if on cue, someone called out, “Mistletoe!” and pointed to a green and red sprig hanging above us. The room filled with playful cheers and laughter as Karl leaned in and kissed me tenderly beneath the mistletoe.
When we pulled away, I was blushing furiously, and the room erupted into even more cheers and applause. I couldn't remember ever feeling happier or more loved than in that moment.
Karl's voice brings me back to the present. “Hello? Earth to Abby?”
My cheeks flush with warmth as I clear my throat. “Sorry,” I murmur.
He chuckles. “Where'd you go just now?”
“I was just thinking,” I reply, my tone slightly embarrassed. “That's all.”
But no matter how hard I try to hide it, I can't get that memory completely out of my mind. Despite everything that happened after that, I've never forgotten that night. Our first Christmas together as a married couple, and it was as magical as I ever could have hoped for.
I consider his proposal once more, weighing the desire to relive those wonderful times against the fear of stirring up rumors and gossip. Finally, after a moment of contemplation, my eyes widen. Karl furrows his brow as he looks at me. “What? What is it?" he asks, looking confused. “You remember something?”
I shake my head, feeling a sense of warmth and excitement wash over me as I consider the brilliant idea I've just had.
“How about a masquerade?”