Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World

Poul laid the picnic carpet on the grassy knoll, creating a cozy spot for them to enjoy their meal. The soft breeze rustled the leaves of nearby trees, adding a touch of serenity to the atmosphere. He reached into the picnic basket and carefully arranged the sandwiches and other goodies, making sure everything was perfect for this special moment.

Sara watched Poul's preparations with a mix of curiosity and excitement. She couldn't help but wonder what he had in store for her. There was an air of anticipation that filled the space between them, making her heart flutter with anticipation.

Poul gently took her hand, guiding her to sit on the picnic carpet. They settled down, facing each other, their eyes locked in a tender gaze. Poul reached for a sandwich and handed it to Sara, his fingers brushing against hers for a brief moment that sent a delightful shiver down their spines.

"Thank you Poul, but I would like you to taste it first," Sara said.

"Hmm," Poul hummed, looking at the sandwich in his hand which was made by her. Based on its meticulous presentation and the enticing aroma, he knew it would be a delicious treat. He took a bite, savoring the flavors that danced on his palate.

As Poul chewed, his eyes never left Sara's. Her eyes sparkled with a mix of nervousness and anticipation, awaiting his verdict.

"Was it good?" Sara asked, her lips tugging to a smile.

Poul swallowed the bite and smiled warmly at Sara. "Good? No, it was exceptional. Probably the best sandwich that I have ever had!"

"Really Poul? Maybe you are saying it just to make me feel better," Sara said somberly.

Poul shook his head, his smile growing wider. "I promise you, Sara, I would never say something just to make you feel better. If your sandwich is bad, I would, of course, tell you the truth, but this sandwich is genuinely amazing."

Sara's face brightened, a wave of relief washing over her. She had poured her heart and soul into perfecting this sandwich, and Poul's genuine praise meant the world to her.

"I'm so glad you liked it, Poul," she said, her voice filled with gratitude.

"You should eat yours," Poul said, pointing to the untouched sandwich in front of him. He couldn't wait to see Sara's reaction when she tasted the sandwich she had made.

Sara chuckled and picked up her sandwich, taking a small, hesitant bite. Her eyes widened, speechless.

"See?" Poul said, his voice filled with playful triumph.

Sara nodded, her mouth still full as she savored the explosion of flavors. After swallowing, she managed to find her voice. "I still got it!" she proudly exclaimed.

Poul laughed heartily as she gazed at Sara's face. Oh, what a beautiful sight it is. Until he noticed a mayo smudge on the corner of Sara's lips.

"Seems like you got a little something right here," Poul said, reaching out with his thumb and gently wiping away the smudge of mayo from Sara's lips, and sucking it off his thumb.

"Po-Poul…what did you just do?" Sara stammered.

"Why? It's a waste if I were to wipe it off," Poul whispered, his voice laced with a hint of mischief. He leaned in closer, his eyes locking with Sara's, as he continued, "Besides, I couldn't resist the opportunity to taste the flavors that have touched your lips.

Sara fumbled her hand nervously, her cheeks blushing as Poul's words hung in the air.

"Stop saying stupid things…dummy."

Poul leaned in even closer, his warm breath caressing Sara's cheek. His voice was barely a whisper as he continued, "Sara, there's something I've been meaning to tell you too."

Sara's eyes widened with anticipation, her whole being focused on Poul's every word.

"Sara, I faced obstacles in getting you here in this country. I almost got executed for it. The majority of the citizens have overlooked what I have done in the previous years. And since your parents accepted and respected your decisions, maybe the time it's right to seal our partnership in a more official way," Poul said, his voice filled with determination.

Poul pulled a velvet box from his pocket, its edges worn from the countless times he had contemplated this moment. He opened it slowly, revealing a glistening ring nestled inside. The sunlight caught the diamond, casting a shimmering reflection in Sara's eyes.

"Sara," Poul's voice quivered with emotion, "will you do me the incredible honor of becoming my wife? I want to spend the rest of my life waking up to your smile, cherishing every moment, and creating a lifetime of beautiful memories together."

Sara's heart swelled with overwhelming joy, tears of happiness streaming down her cheeks. She gazed at the ring, mesmerized by its beauty, and then locked eyes with Poul, her voice barely a whisper.

When he said that, memories of the past flitted across his eyes. The time when he was in his original world, telling Jonathan that he would propose to her when she arrived, only to have been halted by a twisted turn of events. He thought he would never see her again, even contemplating letting go and finding a new one. Not until he discovered that she was also transmigrated into this world. Fate surely had a way of bringing them together, and now, they had the chance to create a future they had once dreamed of.

Sara took a deep breath, her voice filled with unwavering certainty. "Poul. Ever since our past life, you were the one that I couldn't imagine my life without. You were the one that rescued me from the depths of despair and brought light into my world, even to this world. So, my answer would be yes."

Tears of joy welled up in Poul's eyes as he heard Sara's response. He had been waiting for this moment for what felt like an eternity, and now, it was finally here. The weight of their shared history, their love, and their connection hung in the air, sealing their fate together.

Poul's hand trembled slightly as he picked up the glistening ring from the velvet box. He took Sara's left hand in his, and with utmost care and tenderness, he slid the ring onto her finger. It fits perfectly as if it had been waiting for this very moment all along.

And then Poul leaned to press his lips against Sara's, the one that he had longed to do to her for so long.

When they finally pulled away, their foreheads pressed gently against each other, they remained locked in a tender embrace.

"I promise you, Sara, that I will keep you safe. I won't let anyone take you away from me," Poul whispered.