Chapter 263

This Christmas was brighter than the last. Stacey hadn't worried about entertaining Eugene; he thrived on the festive spirit of both the Carter and Hoggard families. Afterward, she nervously invited him to join Carter's Jewel.

He didn't say yes immediately, but he didn't refuse either. "I need time," he said.

"Really?" Stacey breathed, surprised. Eklonna and Carter's Jewel were worlds apart. Eugene was a top designer at Eklonna. This was incredible.

He smiled, nodding. In slightly broken Zentiscapian, he mumbled, "I… really like… your family."

He'd picked up the language from Jeremy, Lillian, and Kevin, using a translating tablet to bridge the gap. His pronunciation was a little off, but they understood. Stacey was ecstatic. She immediately told her parents. Patrick, initially stunned, chuckled, "Becky's getting impressive, isn't she?"

Soon, Christmas ended, and everyone returned to work. Eugene, wanting to explore Zentiscape independently, politely declined Stacey's offer to help arrange his travels. She saw him off at the airport.

Three months later, he returned, delivering Hayden’s jewelry. Stacey felt anxious. Still no word about Carter’s Jewel.

The next day, a date with Hayden started off dreary, but that quickly changed. An amusement park, overflowing with roses, met her gaze. Hayden, kneeling, opened a brocade box revealing a ring. "Becky... will you marry me?"

Suddenly, the park teemed with people: Patrick, Debra, Adrian, Isabella, Carly, Ronald, Damian, Lillian, Kevin, Jeremy, Charlie, Bryce, Paul, Jason, Sharon, Hayden's parents, and even Eugene. All smiled, their faces filled with anticipation and joy.

Jeremy grinned, eyes wide with excitement. Stacey, overwhelmed, stared. Debra urged, "Becky, don't be stunned! Say yes!"

Stacey, tears welling, looked at Hayden. "Yes!"

The ring slipped onto her finger; fireworks erupted. Jeremy rushed to hug her. Lillian and Kevin followed. Charlie unleashed a confetti popper, showering them all.

Later, everyone shared a secret: Eugene had accepted Carter’s Jewel months ago, keeping it a surprise. Stacey, speechless, thanked him. Hayden translated Eugene's Dapreinish words: "He said he stayed because he liked the family, the joyful atmosphere... he felt happy here."

The proposal celebration was over, but the next steps began: planning the engagement and wedding. Meanwhile, Adrian's friend recovered evidence for Carly's case, paving the way for an appeal. Adrian shared the news, leaving the decision to his sisters.