Brandon's eyes sparkled with excitement as he stared at the ring in Alexis’s hand. His little fingers twitched as he could barely contained his giddiness.

“So?” Alexis asked, his voice laced with nervous anticipation. "What do you think?"

Brandon looked up at him, his expression suddenly turning serious. “You really love my mommy?”

“With all my heart,” Alexis said without hesitation. “And I love you too, Brandon. You both mean everything to me.”

Brandon squinted his eyes as if sizing him up. “Then you have to promise me something.”

“Anything.”

“You have to protect Mommy always. No matter what,” Brandon said, bringing up his pinky finger.

Alexis smiled, reaching out...