Today was the day. The sky outside was painted with gentle shades of orange and pink in the morning and the city slowly woke up beneath them. But inside the quiet living room, Richard’s heart beat a little faster than usual. He had thought about this for weeks. He had waited, doubted, and hesitated but not anymore. Now, he was sure. More than sure. He was going to propose to Ann. She had stood by him through everything his coldness, his father’s hatred, his mistakes. She had never demanded anything. She never begged for love or promises. And maybe that’s what made Richard love her even more. She had become his peace. And he wanted to make it official. He walked to the small table where a red velvet box sat. He opened it slowly. Inside was a simple but beautiful ring silver with a single di
