My mysterious fiance

Previously

…The gilded cage was gone, and in its place, an open field stretched before her. “I don’t know, exactly,” she admitted, a thrill of anticipation coursing through her. “But for the first time, I get to choose. I get to build my own future, on my own terms.” She turned back to Liam, her heart swelling with a newfound confidence. “And I’d like that future to include you, if you’ll have me.” A slow, genuine smile spread across Liam’s face, chasing away the last vestiges of wariness. “Elara,” he said, his voice filled with a quiet joy, “I’d like that very much.” The sunlight caught the dust motes dancing in the air, and for Elara, it felt like the beginning of everything.