Chapter Text
Epilogue
After the war, when Ingrid Galatea proposes to Dorothea Arnault, it’s with a different ring than the one she gave her so many years ago, during that disastrous proposal.
“I know I already gave you a ring once that you seem fond of-but I-.” Ingrid chews on her lip, clearly nervous, ring in hand. “But you-I-” She says. “I saved for this one and-”
“Ingrid-” Dorothea plays with the necklace Ingrid gave her over two years ago. “I will wear whatever you give me.”
Ingrid grins. “As long as it’s fashionable of course.”
“Of course.” Dorothea giggles. She puts her left hand out for Ingrid to place the new ring there. She still wears her other ring on her right finger. It’s perfect. They will be a matching set. She smiles down at the new ring, which fits perfectly on her finger. It’s not the largest diamond she has ever received, but it means the world to her.
“This-” Ingrid pauses. “This ring symbolizes that-We will make a marriage that both of us want-Not one that either of us are forced into, not because of the world, or our parents, or anyone.” She sighs and she has a bright blush on her cheeks. “I don’t have your talents for words or poetry, not like you-But-This-We will create a life we both want Dorothea. Together.”
Dorothea can’t hold back her tears. “Yes.” She says. “I’d marry you right now.”
“You want a wedding.” Ingrid teases.
“Yes.” Dorothea says. “Nothing too extravagant-”
Ingrid snorts in obvious disbelief, and Dorothea pulls her into a kiss, long and hard.
She will marry Ingrid, and she will do so happily.
And they will create a life-together.
End