Chapter 189: Samuel’s Secret Preparations

They sat across from each other at the table, the clinking of utensils filling the comfortable silence. Zinnia took a bite of the food and sighed. "This is so good. You’ve been practicing again, haven’t you?"

Samuel smirked, pouring himself a cup of tea. "Maybe. It’s good to keep improving."

She raised an eyebrow. "At this rate, you might end up cooking every meal."

"Only if you let me," he replied, his tone teasing but warm.

Zinnia laughed softly, shaking her head. "We’ll see about that."

As they finished their meal, Samuel leaned back in his chair, watching her clear the last of her plate. "What’s your plan for today?" he asked, his voice casual.

Zinnia set her fork down and wiped her mouth with a tissue. "Not much, probably just a meeting with my crew in the afternoon, or maybe some reading. A quiet day at home."

Samuel nodded, his gaze thoughtful. "You deserve some peace."

She tilted her head, studying him. "And you? Big day at work?"

"Something like that," he said, standing to help her clear the table.

They moved in sync, washing and drying the dishes. The morning sunlight streamed through the kitchen windows, warming the space around them.

As they finished, Samuel grabbed his briefcase from the counter. He turned to her, a small smile playing on his lips. "I should get going."

Zinnia stepped closer, meeting his gaze. "Have a good day, Sam."

"You too," he said, his voice softer.

He hesitated for a moment, as if there was more he wanted to say, but then he nodded and headed for the door.

Zinnia watched him leave, her heart feeling strangely full. As the door clicked shut behind him, she turned back to the quiet kitchen. The house felt a little emptier without him, but her smile lingered.

---

Samuel strode into his office, his determination evident. Timmy, who had arrived early, stood waiting with a tablet in hand.

"Morning, boss," Timmy greeted, his eyes eager. "I finalized the list of venues and vendors for you to approve."

Samuel shook his head. "We’re not doing this at a venue, Timmy. This has to feel personal, like it’s just for her. That’s the only way this will work."

Timmy raised a brow. "So, no grand gestures? No fireworks or orchestras?"

"No," Samuel said firmly. "Zinnia isn’t someone you impress with a spectacle. She values thoughtfulness, sincerity. I want this to reflect how much she means to me."

Timmy nodded, making notes. "Got it. Thoughtful and personal. What’s the next step?"

Samuel leaned back, considering. "I want it to happen at her favorite place. Somewhere that feels like home for her."

Timmy’s face lit up. "Her art studio! She always talks about how much she loves it there. It’s quiet, intimate... perfect."

Samuel smiled faintly. "Exactly. We’ll transform it into something unforgettable. But subtly—nothing too flashy."

Timmy beamed. "I’ll get right on it."

---

With nothing much to do in the morning, Zinnia decided to visit the local flower market for inspiration. The vibrant colors and delicate scents always stirred her creativity.

As she browsed through rows of daisies, tulips, and lilies, her mind wandered to Samuel again. His words, his actions—they were so unlike him lately.

She couldn’t help but wonder, What is he up to this time?

She shook her head, pushing the thoughts aside. Focus on today, she told herself. There was no point in overthinking.

---

By mid-afternoon, Samuel had a clear plan. He had spent the morning coordinating with Timmy, ensuring every detail was perfect. Now, he needed to involve Zinnia’s parents.

He arrived at the Lopez family home and was greeted warmly by Elena. "Samuel! What a surprise," she said, her smile radiant. "Come in, come in."

"Thank you, Mom," Samuel said, stepping inside. "I need to speak with you and Dad about something important."

Elena’s brow lifted in curiosity, but she nodded. "Ricardo is in his study. Let me fetch him."

Moments later, Samuel sat in the elegant study, facing Zinnia’s parents. Ricardo regarded him with his usual calm demeanor, while Elena looked at him expectantly.

"So, Samuel," Ricardo began. "What brings you here?"

Samuel straightened his posture. "I’ve come to ask for your blessing. I plan to formally propose to Zinnia."

Elena gasped, her hands flying to her mouth as her eyes lit up with joy. "Oh, Samuel, that’s such wonderful news! I’m so happy to hear this!"

Ricardo’s eyes softened, though he maintained his composed exterior. "A formal proposal, you say? About time."

Samuel smiled slightly, his nerves easing. "I want it to be special, something she’ll remember forever. And I want both of you to be part of it."

Ricardo nodded approvingly. "You have our blessing, son. Whatever you need, just say the word."

Elena reached out, taking Samuel’s hand in hers. "Thank you for doing this, Samuel. Zinnia means the world to us, and we’ve always believed in the two of you."

Elena and Ricardo Lopez had been nothing but kind to him, always treating him as though he were a part of their family. Yet, hearing their words now—how they believed in him—Samuel could barely focus. A gnawing guilt churned in his chest, making it hard to meet their eyes.

"Samuel, dear, would you like some tea?" Elena’s soft voice broke through his thoughts. She smiled warmly at him, holding the teapot with delicate hands.

He blinked, forcing himself to smile. "Oh, yes, please. Thank you, Mom."

Elena poured the tea gracefully, her genuine smile never faltering. Ricardo, seated beside her, leaned back in his chair, a proud and content expression on his face. Samuel envied their ease, their unshakeable trust in him. If only they knew the weight he carried.

"You know," Ricardo began, his voice rich with fatherly affection, "we’re so glad Zinnia has someone like you in her life. She’s always been independent, but having someone who truly cares for her means the world to us." He gave Samuel a knowing look, the kind of look that said, We trust you to take care of her.

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by Aunomay Read