Accidental "I Do"

Episode 010

The Morning Of

The first rays of Valentine’s Day light filtered through Jasmine’s bedroom window, the soft hues painting the room in a golden glow. She blinked awake, her heart fluttering with anticipation.

Today was the day — the day she’d ask Tristan to spend the rest of their lives together. The thought sent a mix of excitement and nervousness rushing through her, as though her heart couldn’t decide whether to race or pause.

Sliding out of bed, she stretched, her fingers brushing against the edge of her nightstand where the small velvet box lay. Jasmine picked it up carefully, her fingers grazing the soft fabric. Inside was the ring she had chosen with so much care, the one she hoped would symbolize the future she envisioned for her and Tristan.

Setting the box down, she glanced at her neatly packed purse. Tucked inside were the California tickets, another part of the life-changing proposal she’d planned. Her excitement bubbled over at the thought of a fresh start — a new chapter for them both.

By the time Jasmine stepped out of the shower, her apartment was filled with the scent of fresh coffee, no doubt her mom's. She hummed to herself, a soft, happy tune, as she dressed in a simple, yet elegant red blouse paired with a black pencil skirt. Valentine’s Day deserved a pop of festive color, after all.

Standing in front of the mirror, she adjusted her blouse and smiled at her reflection.

“You’ve got this,” she whispered to herself. “Today is going to be perfect.”

Her phone buzzed on the counter, pulling her attention away. It was a text from Maya:

'Mornin’! Don’t forget to swing by early — I’ve got coffee waiting for you. Big day!'

Jasmine couldn’t help but smile as she typed back: 'On my way! Thanks, lifesaver.'

Her mom walked in, a knowing smile on her face.

"Darling, how're you feeling?" She asked with warmth in her voice.

"Seriously mom, I don't know. I'm excited, but at the same time, I'm also nervous," Jasmine replied.

"You got this, Jasmine," Celine said, smiling softly.

"Thanks mom. It means a lot."

She grabbed her purse, ensuring the ring and tickets were safely inside, before stepping out into the crisp morning air.

When Jasmine arrived at the office, the atmosphere was even more vibrant than the day before. Heart-shaped balloons bobbed above desks, and the scent of roses and chocolate hung in the air. Everyone seemed to carry a festive energy, their laughter and chatter adding a warmth to the typically professional environment.

Maya was already at her desk, a steaming cup of coffee in her hand and another waiting for Jasmine. She waved her over with a grin.

“Morning, Valentine’s Queen!” Maya greeted as Jasmine approached. “Ready to sweep Tristan off his feet?”

Jasmine chuckled, setting her purse down beside her. “Ready as I’ll ever be. Thanks for the coffee — I definitely need it today.”

Maya handed her the cup, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “So, how are you feeling? Nervous? Excited? Both?”

“Definitely both,” Jasmine admitted, taking a sip. The warmth of the coffee steadied her. “I’ve gone over everything a million times, and I think I’ve got it all under control. But it’s still nerve-wracking, you know? This is a big step.”

Maya leaned in conspiratorially. “It’s "the" step, Jaz. You’re asking the guy you love to spend forever with you. That’s huge — but it’s also amazing. And knowing you, you’ve planned it to perfection.”

Jasmine smiled, her cheeks warming at her friend’s unwavering support. “Thanks, Maya. I hope Tristan sees it that way, too.”

As they chatted, the office buzzed with preparation for the company event. Jasmine noticed colleagues bustling about with clipboards, confirming last-minute details. Red and pink decorations adorned every corner.

“Speaking of big events,” Maya said, gesturing toward the decorated conference room, “are you coming to the company event? I suppose you aren't coming, but there is going to be a pretty fancy setup this year. And I hear the CEO will be there.”

Jasmine hesitated, then shook her head. “I can’t. The proposal is tonight, and I want to make sure everything is perfect. I’ve got a lot to finalize before then.”

Maya nodded knowingly. “Makes sense. You’ve got bigger plans to focus on. Want me to fill in your spot? I’ll be happy to cover for you.”

“Would you? That would be great,” Jasmine said, relief washing over her. “I hate missing it, but this proposal… it’s everything.”

Maya reached out, squeezing Jasmine’s hand. “Don’t worry about a thing. I’ve got it covered. You just focus on making tonight unforgettable.”

Walking around, Jasmine’s gaze drifted toward Tristan's office. It was empty, just as she had expected. He had mentioned a heavy workload earlier in the week, and she knew he wouldn’t be attending the event either.

She felt a pang of disappointment but quickly pushed it aside. Tonight would be their moment — the culmination of weeks of planning and dreaming.

With renewed determination, she turned back to Maya. “Thanks for always being in my corner. I couldn’t have done any of this without you.”

Maya grinned. “That’s what best friends are for. Now go conquer your day, Valentine’s Queen.”

Jasmine laughed softly, her heart lighter as she returned to her desk.

The morning passed in a blur of emails, phone calls, and final confirmations for the proposal. Jasmine’s nerves ebbed and flowed, but her excitement never wavered. She kept glancing at her purse, the small velvet box and California tickets nestled inside.

As the clock inched toward noon, she leaned back in her chair, letting out a breath. Everything was falling into place. Tonight, she would ask Tristan to share a life of adventure, love, and endless possibilities.

The thought filled her with hope, even as a flicker of uncertainty lingered at the edges of her mind. Would Tristan feel the same? Was he ready for this next step?

Jasmine shook her head, banishing the doubts. She had to trust in the love they shared and the bond they had built over the years.

---

By the time the company-wide event was set to begin, Jasmine felt a strange mix of calm and anticipation. She watched as colleagues gathered near the conference room, their laughter echoing through the office.

Maya stopped by her desk one last time, flashing her a reassuring smile. “You sure you’re all set? No last-minute freak-outs?”

Jasmine chuckled. “No freak-outs. I’m good. Thanks for everything, Maya.”

Maya nodded, her expression warm. “You’ve got this, Jaz. I can’t wait to hear how it goes.”

With that, Maya joined the crowd heading into the event, leaving Jasmine alone at her desk. She took a deep breath, her hand brushing over her purse.

Tonight was the night. The night her whole life changes.