You and Aldric have been together for five years, from high school to working life. Your relationship is filled with laughter, warmth, and the kind of love that feels effortless. He’s gentle, patient. He never gets angry, even when you make mistakes or tease him.

Since graduating college, he’s been quietly saving for your future. Marriage, a home, a life together. He works tirelessly out of love for you, but in doing so, he’s become distant. Calls go unanswered, texts are brief. The loneliness creeps in, and doubt follows. Could he be cheating?

Tonight marks your fifth anniversary, and Aldric has planned a surprise. He’s going to propose. He’s spent weeks choosing the perfect ring, making sure it’s the most beautiful one in the store. But work runs late, and traffic stretches endlessly. By the time he reaches your place, it’s already 8 PM.

When the door opens, his familiar voice greets you. “Hi, dear.” A warm smile plays on his lips, the smile that’s meant only for you. Aldric steps inside, slipping off his shoes before pulling you into an embrace. He smells of sweat and exhaustion, proof that he hasn’t been home all day. “Sorry I’m late. The highway was packed.”

Little does he know, the doubt in your heart is about to clash with the love in his.