Chapter 13 (Part 4)
As the storm gradually fades, the once night-like darkness begins to lighten. The black clouds transform into shades of grey while the rain softens into gentle sprinkles of water. The violent winds wane, replaced by a gentle breeze that caresses the land.
Oliver dashes through the plains. He leaps over puddles and mud, transforming his black shoes into muddy brown. His sprinting speed propels him forward, his hair brushing against the wind. Grinning, he pushes past the swaying grass, gliding through the landscape. Oliver continues to hasten, carrying himself across the land.
The sunlight triumphs over the rain as its radiant glow spreads further across the sky. The darkness dissipates, making way for the bright, blue atmosphere above. The calm breeze blows through the swaying grass, creating a serene lullaby.
Oliver keeps on running and running. His pace matches a jaguar in full stride, and his speed rivals a soaring bald eagle. With an unwavering smile, he maintains his swift pace without showing signs of fatigue.
In the distance, Oliver spots a white building amidst the sea of grass. He pauses for a brief moment, squinting in its direction. He slowly beams a broad smile, realizing it is his old, abandoned childhood home—the Podeshires' Mansion.
Oliver resumes his hastened stride across the plains. Each step carries him forward, though he begins to feel a dull ache in his calves. Nevertheless, he pushes through as his determination drives him onward.
The grey clouds morph into a brilliant white. And the blue sky reemerges. Sunlight spills across the expanse, cascading on the land with a gentle warmth that embraces the surroundings, defeating every remnant of the violent thunderstorm.
Oliver halts and drops to his knees, resting his eyes and body. He pants heavily, gasping for air, as he takes a swift break. Opening his eyes, he spots buildings and city walls on the horizon. As he regains his strength, a daring smirk plays on his lips. Standing up, he resumes hastening towards the city.
Meanwhile, Gregory roams through the endless hallways of the mansion. He turns corners and passes through doorways, traversing the labyrinthine paths. Soon, he arrives at the grand staircase.
Gregory walks down the stairs. As he reaches the grand, opulent lobby on the ground floor, he takes a deep breath and slips his hand into his pocket. Snatching a ring box, he opens it, gazing at the gleaming golden ring inside.
From the dining room, Frederick observes Gregory standing alone. After a brief moment of contemplation, Frederick decides to approach him. He takes a short breath, steeling himself, before stepping toward Gregory.
"Gregory," Frederick called out with a soft, gentle voice, approaching Gregory.
Gregory glanced at Frederick, turning towards him. "Oh, good afternoon, Mr Frederick," Gregory greeted.
"I witnessed the exchange between you and my son earlier..." Frederick admitted.
"Oh, about that..." Gregory scratched his head. "Oli... Oliver wasn't ready yet. He mentioned..."
Frederick interrupted him with an apology. "I'm truly sorry for the disappointment it may have caused. But what's truly important is that Oliver will reach a point where he is ready to say 'Yes' in due time."
"Thank you, sir," Gregory's face flickered with gratitude as he nodded.
Suddenly, the entrance swung open wide, flooding the lobby with a burst of sunlight. Frederick and Gregory turned their gaze towards the front door. Surprised, they found out it was none other than Oliver standing by the doorway.
Oliver's outfit clung to his body, still damp from the rain. A few droplets of water dripped from the tip of his nose. Despite being wet, he smiled and entered the mansion, leaving muddy footprints on the wooden floorboard.
"Oli?" Gregory gasped as he laid eyes on Oliver, who was soaking wet.
"Greg," Oliver entered and approached Gregory.
As Oliver marched towards Gregory, he nodded, conveying his decision. Jumping forward, he wrapped his arms around Gregory's neck and hugged him tightly. The two men embraced each other, sharing warmth and love.
"...Yes! Yes! I'll marry you, of course!" Oliver chuckled.
Gregory felt shock dashing through his body. His palms tingle as he huffs out a loud breath. He then pulls back from the hug and holds onto Oliver's shoulders, inclining his face closer to Oliver's.
"Wait, you sure?" Gregory asked.
"Yes!" Oliver nodded as he grinned.
Gregory bursts into laughter, his voice filling the air and echoing through the spacious lobby. Unable to contain his overflowing excitement, he wraps his arms around Oliver's waist and embraces his beloved tightly. With a joyful twirl, Gregory spins Oliver through the air.
"Yes! Yes! I love you!" Gregory cried out. "I love you, Oliver!"
Gregory gently lowers Oliver back onto the ground. Grabbing the ring box from his pocket again, Gregory drops to one knee. He then smiles as he opens the box, revealing the gleaming golden ring. With a tender touch, he carefully slides the ring onto Oliver's finger, sealing their commitment.
Frederick watches the sight before him as his eyes glisten. He places a palm over his chest, feeling the strong beat of his heart. Inhaling deeply, Frederick grins, and his smile widens.
Oliver and Gregory leap into each other's arms. Their bodies meet, twirling and embracing in a joyful dance. Smiles never leave their faces as they cheer and celebrate the moment of love and unity like never before.
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