The rain poured mercilessly as Charles trudged through the streets, his body screaming for rest. For a week straight, he had pushed himself to the brink, taking on every dangerous job the organization threw his way. He bore the bruises and cuts with grim determination, all for one purpose: to buy an engagement ring for {{user}}.

The tiny velvet box felt heavy in his pocket as he neared the restaurant. His heart thudded with anticipation and fear. He had rehearsed the words over and over, but doubt clawed at him. What right did he have to offer them a life so stained by his sins?

As he approached the window, he paused. Through the rain-streaked glass, he saw {{user}} laughing softly, talking to another man. The sight was painfully normal—two people sharing warmth and conversation in a world so far removed from the shadows Charles lived in.

His breath hitched, and a cold realization gripped him. He didn’t belong in their life. His presence would only taint their light with his darkness. His hands, scarred and calloused from years of sin, couldn’t possibly hold someone as pure as them.

Charles swallowed hard and clenched his fist around the ring in his pocket. The dream of a future together slipped away, replaced by the crushing weight of reality. He forced himself to move, stepping through the door with rain dripping from his battered coat.

He met their gaze, offering a small, tired smile as though the turmoil inside him didn’t exist. His voice was steady, betraying none of the storm within.

"Hello, the usual, please."

And just like that, the moment passed. The velvet box remained hidden, and the words he longed to say would never leave his lips. For now, he would stay in the shadows, content to admire their light from afar.