After a few days in Greece, they finally returned home, bringing a sense of relief and joy to everyone waiting.
The flight had been calm, but Aria barely sat still the whole time. Her hand kept moving—turning slightly, lifting, admiring her ring. Again. And again.
Ryan noticed. Of course he did. But he didn't say anything, just watched her quietly, a faint, almost invisible smile forming now and then.
At the airport, Katy, Mrs Carter, and Aria's aunt were already waiting. Standing together, excited and impatient.
Katy kept looking toward the arrival gate every few seconds. "Where are they?" she muttered.
Mrs Carter remained composed, but her eyes were fixed ahead.
Aria's aunt smiled softly. "They'll be here."
Then—they appeared.
Ryan walked out first, calm and collected. Right beside him, Aria was glowing with happiness.
And the moment she saw them, her face lit up completely. She let go of Ryan's hand and walked faster, almost running.
"Guys!"
Katy's eyes widened. "There she is!"
Aria reached them, breathless but smiling brightly, her heart pounding with excitement. Without wasting a second, she lifted her hand right in front of them, showing it off. The ring sparkled under the airport lights—bright, impossible to miss, symbolising her happiness and anticipation.
"I'm engaged!" she said, unable to hide her excitement, feeling the warmth of her family's pride and happiness.
Katy gasped loudly. "OH, MY GOD!" She grabbed Aria's hand immediately, staring at the ring. "This is huge!"
Aria laughed. "I know!"
Mrs Carter stepped closer, her eyes softening as she looked at the ring, then at Aria. A small smile appeared on her face. "Welcome to the family," she said quietly.
Aria's expression softened instantly. "Thank you…"
Her aunt pulled her into a gentle hug. "I'm so happy for you."
Aria hugged her back carefully, still smiling, still glowing.
Behind them, Ryan stood watching, his expression calm as always, but his eyes lingered on Aria—only her-reflecting pride and tenderness that words couldn't express.
Katy pulled away suddenly, still holding Aria's hand. "No, seriously… how did he even afford this?" she teased.
Aria laughed. "Ask him."
Katy turned immediately. "Ryan!"
Ryan raised a brow slightly. "Yes?"
Katy pointed at the ring. "This is not normal."
Ryan glanced at it once, then back at Aria. "It suits her." Simple, like that was the only thing that mattered.
Aria smiled again, wider this time. And without thinking, she walked back to him, slipping her hand into his, the ring shining between them.
And this time—she didn't let go.
They walked slowly toward the car, Aria's steps heavy and her belly making every movement harder, her exhaustion evident.
Aria exhaled softly, placing one hand under her belly for support, feeling the weight of her fatigue. "I'm so tired…" she murmured, her voice tinged with relief and weariness, as her body demanded rest after the long journey.
Ryan immediately glanced at her, his grip on her hand tightening slightly. Without saying anything, he moved closer, one arm sliding gently around her waist to support her as they walked. "Slow down," he said quietly.
Aria didn't argue for once. She leaned into him a little more, letting him carry part of her weight. "I feel like I'm carrying a whole world," she complained softly.
Ryan looked down at her belly briefly. "You are," he replied calmly.
Aria sighed. "… you're not helping." But she smiled anyway.
They finally reached the car. Ryan opened the door for her carefully, helping her in without rushing. She settled into the seat with a soft groan, adjusting herself until she was comfortable.
Ryan got in beside her, and the car drove off.
The ride was quiet. Aria rested her head back, one hand still on her belly, her eyes closing for a moment as exhaustion took over.
Ryan kept glancing at her, making sure she was okay and comfortable.
By the time they arrived, she looked half asleep.
When the car stopped at the main Carter Mansion, staff were already waiting outside, prepared and ready.
Ryan stepped out first, then turned and helped Aria out gently. She held onto him immediately, tired and in need of support.
As soon as they entered, Mrs Carter was already there waiting. Her eyes went straight to Aria, noticing everything: the way she walked, the way she held herself.
"Come," she said immediately, her tone firm, but not cold. "Everything is ready."
Aria blinked slightly. "Everything?"
Mrs Carter turned, already walking ahead. "The food is prepared," she said. "And your bath is ready."
Aria looked at Ryan. "…I like this version of her," she whispered.
Ryan didn't respond, but there was a faint hint of amusement in his eyes.
They followed Mrs Carter inside. The house felt warm and welcoming. Staff moved quietly, making sure everything was perfect.
Aria was gently guided to sit down first at a table already set with carefully prepared food—light, healthy, exactly what she needed.
"Eat," Mrs Carter said.
Aria didn't argue; she was too tired to. She started eating slowly, her body relaxing more with every bite while Ryan stayed close, watching.
After a while, Mrs Carter turned to the maid. "Prepare the bath."
"It's already done, ma'am."
Mrs Carter nodded once, then looked at Aria again. "You'll rest after this."
Aria swallowed her food and nodded softly. "Okay…"
For the first time in a long while, everything felt calm, safe, like she was exactly where she needed to be.