Chapter 60 The Decision Is Hers to Make
The Bennett family home was Teresa's destination after dinner with Liam, opting to bypass the hospital to avoid prying questions from her parents about the Evans encounter.
"Give me your hand, Teresa." Outside the Bennett villa, Liam's voice was gentle.
With a curious tilt of her head, Teresa extended her hand.
From his pocket, Liam revealed a pink diamond ring, shining softly in the car's subdued light. He put it onto her finger. The fit was just right, as if it were made for her alone.
"When did you prepare this?" Teresa's voice was a blend of surprise and admiration.
Liam kissed her hand, his affection clear. "It's been waiting for you. Do you like it?"
Her nod was loving. "It's beautiful."
"Once Croissant returns, let's get our marriage license. We'll plan the wedding you've always dreamed of," Liam proposed in an earnest tone.
Teresa's voice wavered, "I want everyone's blessing when we marry."
"We'll talk to my mother," Liam agreed, sealing their conversation with a kiss that left her caught between duty and desire.
He suggested staying the night despite her past with Gabriel, which she already considered. They were to be married, after all. But Liam had other plans but declined, leaving her with a sense of relief.
Watching him drive away, Teresa was left alone with her thoughts and the weight of the ring on her finger.
William found Teresa deep in contemplation. "Is that from Liam?" he asked, noting the new addition to her hand.
Their conversation soon turned to the heart of Teresa's turmoil. William's surprise was evident, but practicality prevailed. He suggested a DNA test upon the child's return.
Teresa's dilemma was clear. Her heart was with Liam, but her child's future was intertwined with Gabriel's.
William offered his perspective, highlighting Gabriel's unspoken support over the years.
"What I want doesn't matter," William reassured her. "It's your happiness that counts."
He left her with a potential solution, which was to marry Liam and seek recognition for Croissant from the Garcia family.
Teresa remained silent, but her mind was in a whirlwind of emotions and choices.
The next day, Teresa and Liam were in a hurry to reunite with Croissant. Liam's assurance against any claim from the boy's biological father was firm.
Their drive was interrupted by a sudden accident involving Hayden, a fiery figure from Gabriel's past. After the exchange, Hayden's attempt to reconnect with Gabriel was met with a cold rejection, leaving her alone with her phone and a well of tears.
Teresa's heart was heavy with secrets as they resumed their journey to the airport, her mind racing with the implications of her choices and the love she had for Liam.
