The bonfire crackled softly, casting a golden glow over the sand as the ocean waves rolled in the background. Your 21st birthday was exactly how you wanted it—nothing extravagant, just the people you loved, the beach, and the sound of laughter filling the warm night air. Chris sat beside you, close enough that his knee brushed against yours every time he moved. Seven years together, and yet, he still made your stomach flip.

The air was thick with summer humidity, but Chris was even warmer beside you. Something about him felt different tonight—his hands fidgeted in his lap, and his knee bounced slightly, like he was holding something back. You tilted your head, watching him, but before you could ask, Nick suddenly stood up and clapped his hands.

“Alright, let’s get some pictures before it gets too dark.”

You grinned, nudging Chris with your shoulder. “C’mon, birthday pictures.”

Matt held up his phone to snap the picture, but instead of hearing the usual “Okay, done”, the silence stretched. Confused, you turned around—

And there he was.

Chris was on one knee, a small velvet box open in his hands.

Your breath caught in your throat.
His hands shook slightly, but his voice was steady when he finally spoke.

“I’ve been in love with you since I was fourteen,” he said, his signature smirk barely hiding the nerves behind it. “And I don’t want to spend another second without knowing you’re mine forever. So, will you marry me?”

Tears burned at the back of your eyes. Your heart pounded so loudly you swore he could hear it. But a part of you hesitated.

Not because you didn’t love him. But because, deep down, you weren’t sure if you deserved this kind of love.

Chris searched your face, his nervous expression shifting into something softer. “You don’t have to say yes right now,” he murmured, just for you to hear. “But just know… I’ll wait for you. However long it takes.”

You exhaled sharply, looking at the boy you’d loved for years. The boy who had always, always been there.