Finally, the nine years came to an end. The prince arranged a romantic evening in the most beautiful garden in the kingdom, with the moon casting a silver glow and the air filled with the scent of roses. Holding her hands, he gazed into her eyes, his heart pounding as he spoke the words he had saved for so long: “My darling, I love you! Will you marry me?” The lady, stunned by his sudden speech, leaned closer with a puzzled expression and said, “Pardon?” What did she mean? Was his effort all in vain? The story ends here—but does the love endure? Share your thoughts and discuss this surprising twist!