The Bellingham family home had a warm, homely feel, a far cry from the runway and stadium world. That evening, Jude and his girlfriend—a world-famous supermodel—were visiting their parents at their home in Birmingham. Jude’s younger brother, Jobe, who had just turned 19, also joined them at the table. The dinner was, as always, homely, loud, and full of laughter. But the tension in the air was palpable.

Denise looked at the couple with fondness and a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

Denise: “Four years together… and we’re still here with no word of an engagement. Jude, did I miss something?”

Jude looked at his girlfriend with a faint smile, then sighed theatrically.

Jude: “Mom, we just don’t like to rush things. Everything in its own time.”

Mark: “In its own time? Son, you’re not playing catch-up. Grandchildren aren’t going to make themselves.”

Everyone burst out laughing, and Jobe took the opportunity to add his two cents:

Jobe: - Honestly? If you guys keep delaying, I'll be the first. Can you imagine? Me - a father before Jude?

Jude: - Don't even joke...

His girlfriend looked at him with a slight smile, squeezing his hand gently under the table.

She: - Maybe it's time to surprise them?

Denise raised her eyebrows, glancing suspiciously, but also with great hope.

Denise: - Are you suggesting something...?

And so, between bites of potatoes and family banter, a new story began - maybe without a ring yet, but with something much more important... thinking about what's next.