When Love is a Question Mark
Chapter 212: Awaited Moment

Chapter 212: Awaited Moment

Zinnia looked at Samuel for a moment, the warmth in his gaze reassuring her. She knew he was right. She still had some things to say to the crew and cast, especially after the success of the premiere. She had to thank them properly, tell them how proud she was of what they had accomplished together. And she was sure her parents would understand.

"Okay," Zinnia said, her voice soft. "I’ll stay for a bit, but thank you for offering. You’re right. There’s still a lot I need to say."

Samuel nodded, offering her a gentle smile. "I’ll take care of your parents. You focus on your team." He looked at Zinnia’s parents, who were talking with a few other guests nearby, and motioned for Zinnia to go ahead.

"Are you sure, Sam?" Zinnia asked, her concern evident. "You don’t mind?"

"Not at all," he assured her. "I’ve got this. Go ahead. I’ll be right here when you’re done."

Zinnia hesitated for a moment but then nodded, trusting Samuel. She gave her parents a quick glance and excused herself, heading toward the group of crew members and cast who were still chatting excitedly. She could hear their laughter and excitement as they recounted moments from the filming, and it made her smile.

---

Meanwhile, Samuel turned towards Elena and Ricardo, who had just finished speaking with a few other guests. He walked over to them with a warm smile.

"Mom and Dad," he said politely, "Zinnia asked me to drive you both home. It’s getting late, and she’ll be with the team a bit longer."

Elena’s smile was soft but full of appreciation. "Oh, thank you, Samuel. You really don’t have to. We can take a cab, but it’s kind of you to offer."

"It’s no trouble at all, Mom," Samuel replied with a reassuring smile. "I insist. It’s the least I can do after such an incredible night."

Ricardo, ever the calm presence, nodded his approval. "That’s very considerate of you, Samuel. Thank you."

Elena placed a hand on her husband’s arm, her eyes warm as she looked at Samuel. "You’re very kind. We’ll be ready to go whenever you are."

Samuel nodded, then turned his attention to the exit, gesturing for them to follow. "I’ll just grab the car and pull around front. You two can wait inside."

As they made their way toward the exit of the theater, Zinnia stayed behind, talking to her team. She thanked each of them individually, her gratitude sincere as she acknowledged their hard work and dedication throughout the filming process. She could feel the pride in the air, the shared accomplishment among everyone who had poured their time and effort into the movie.

---

After a few minutes, Samuel returned, his car waiting outside. Elena and Ricardo stepped into the backseat, and Samuel closed the door behind them before getting into the driver’s seat.

"Thank you again, Samuel," Elena said from the back. "You’re always so thoughtful."

"It’s nothing," Samuel replied with a smile, starting the engine. "Just doing what I can to help."

---

As Zinnia returned home that evening, she found an envelope waiting for her on the table in the living room. Her name was written in Samuel’s neat handwriting.

She opened it carefully, pulling out a card that read:

"Meet me in the studio at our home tonight at 10 PM. Trust me."

Her heart raced as she read the words. She glanced at the clock—9:50 PM.

"What’s he up to now?" she murmured, though a small smile tugged at her lips.

As the clock approached 10 PM, Samuel stood in the studio, his heart pounding. He adjusted his tie for what felt like the hundredth time, glancing around the room to ensure everything was perfect.

Timmy, standing nearby, gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "You’ve got this, boss. She’s going to love it."

Samuel nodded, though his nerves were palpable. For once, this wasn’t about business or duty. This was about her.

The sound of footsteps outside made him straighten. The door creaked open, and Zinnia stepped inside, her eyes widening at the sight before her.

"Sam..." she whispered, her voice tinged with awe.

And in that moment, Samuel knew—this was the beginning of forever.

Zinnia stood frozen in the doorway, her gaze sweeping across the softly lit studio. The golden glow of the string lights reflected in her wide eyes as she took in the pathway of rose petals and the beautifully arranged setting.

Her eyes finally landed on Samuel, standing at the center of the room, his usual confidence replaced with a nervous but genuine expression.

"Sam..." she said again, her voice trembling slightly. "What is all this?"

He took a step forward, his polished shoes crunching lightly on the petals. "Zia, I..." He paused, gathering his thoughts. This was unlike any business pitch he had ever delivered. It was personal.

Zinnia’s heart raced as she watched him. In all the time they’d known each other, she had rarely seen Samuel look so vulnerable.

"I know this might feel sudden," Samuel began, his voice steady but tinged with emotion. "And I know I haven’t always been the best fiancé. For a long time, I let other things—business, expectations, pride—get in the way of what really matters."

Zinnia’s lips parted slightly, her breath catching.

Samuel took another step closer. "But the truth is, none of that means anything without you. You’ve always been here, Zinnia—kind, patient, understanding. And I... I didn’t appreciate that the way I should have."

He gestured toward the easel, where a blank canvas stood waiting. "You’ve taught me that life is like a painting—every moment is a brushstroke, and every choice adds color. You’re the one who’s made my life more vibrant, more meaningful."

Zinnia felt a lump rise in her throat. She wanted to speak, but the words wouldn’t come.

Samuel knelt down on one knee, pulling a small velvet box from his pocket. The sight of him in such a vulnerable position sent a rush of emotion through Zinnia.