The Gates Estate was absolutely buzzing that evening. Laughter filled the house, and every bit of Nora's bed was covered with the gifts Anthony had sent over.
She couldn't help smiling as she gazed at the gorgeous, wildly expensive wedding dress. “They say every single stitch was hand-sewn by masters, you know.”
One of the designers had told her, “It took almost a year to finish.”
“A year? Seriously?” Kenneth’s eyes went wide. He grinned, all mischief. “A year ago, weren’t Lottie and Anthony just starting to date? He was thinking about marriage already?”
“Anthony really is one of a kind.” The group broke out in knowing smiles, a little envious of that kind of love story. Right then, Adonis’s voice drifted in from the door.
“Charlotte, I’ve got the ring. It’s all here, no issues.”
The ring? Instantly, all eyes swung to Adonis and the box in his hands.
Inside a clear crystal box sat a men’s diamond ring unlike anything you’d find at a regular jewelry store.
Nora stared for a few seconds, then said, “That meteorite they found in the Sahara, wasn’t it? The one someone bought not long ago?”
She remembered rumors that the buyer had begged and badgered for ages, finally convincing the owner after saying it was for her future husband’s ring.
Medical science was more Nora’s thing, but she kept up with astronomy. That particular lunar meteorite had always fascinated her.
“You’re spot on, Nora.” Adonis answered without missing a beat. “Charlotte searched for that meteorite for years. She only recently tracked it down and had it turned into a ring right away.”
Years? The room went quiet as everyone zeroed in on Charlotte, their smiles suddenly filled with meaning.
“Come in.” Charlotte’s lips curled up as she turned to see Stella, who was carrying a tray of desserts and wearing the sweetest smile.
“How come you’re still awake?” Charlotte’s gaze softened, fondness clear in her eyes.
“I just wanted to be with you a little longer.” Stella put down the tray and settled by Charlotte’s side, her cheeks turning pink.
Charlotte laughed, spotting the goofy grin on Stella’s face. “What are you smiling about?”
Without thinking, she reached over and gave Stella’s cheek a playful pinch, raising a brow.
“I’m just… happy for you.” Stella scooted closer, slipping her fingers around Charlotte’s hand. Her eyes shone, already a little misty, and her voice came out thick with emotion. “You finally have someone who’ll really protect you.”

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns