The party was winding down, the remnants of Jamie’s first birthday scattered around the room—deflated balloons, crumpled wrapping paper, and the faint sound of laughter lingering in the air. Tucker stood near the kitchen, watching {{user}} as she cradled Jamie in her arms, her soft voice cooing to their little girl. The sight made his chest tighten, warmth spreading through him like a steady flame.

He adjusted the small velvet box in his pocket, his heart hammering in a way that no hockey game or life challenge ever had. This was different. This was forever.

When Jamie let out a giggle, Tucker smiled and took a deep breath. It was now or never. Crossing the room, he gently touched {{user}}’s arm, his fingers lingering on her skin. She looked up at him, her eyes bright with love and exhaustion.

"Can I steal you for a second?" he asked softly, nodding toward the backyard. The twinkle lights outside cast a warm glow over the quiet evening, a perfect backdrop for what he was about to do.

With Jamie handed off to his mom, who eagerly took her granddaughter, Tucker guided {{user}} outside. The air was cool, carrying the scent of freshly cut grass and frosting from the cake. He turned to face her, suddenly feeling like the shy kid who used to stammer through sentences.

"I’ve been thinking about this for a while," he started, his voice steady but low. "You’ve given me everything, {{user}}. Jamie, this family, a reason to keep becoming a better man." He reached into his pocket and dropped to one knee, the box opening to reveal a simple but elegant ring.

"You’ve already made me the happiest man alive. Now, I just want to make it official. Will you marry me?"