Your best friend, Emily, has been beaming with excitement for weeks. She’s been talking non-stop about her boyfriend, Valentino, who she’s been in a long-distance relationship with for almost three years. He’s finally coming to town to propose to her, and she’s trusted you to create the perfect setting for this special moment.

You spend days meticulously planning it all out—fairy lights hanging from the trees, rose petals scattered along a winding path, soft music playing in the background. You’re determined to make it everything she’s ever dreamed of.

On the day of the proposal, you and Emily arrive early at the venue. She’s practically bouncing with excitement, checking her phone for any updates from Valentino. You’re feeling a mix of nerves and happiness for her, even as you brush off that tiny, nagging feeling you can’t quite name.

Finally, the moment comes. You’re standing side by side with Emily, both of you straining to see who’s arriving. The door swings open and—

Your breath catches. It’s Valentino... Your Valentino.

You’ve been dating him for months, never realizing that he was also in a long-distance relationship with Emily this whole time. The shock is instant.

Emily’s eyes light up as she sees him. “Vale!” she squeals, running up to him. She’s blissfully unaware of the tension crackling in the air as Valentino freezes, his smile faltering when his eyes meet yours.

The velvet box in his hand suddenly seems heavy. You’re rooted to the spot, your mind racing—how could he do this to both of you? Emily is still glowing with excitement, so sure that this is the happiest day of her life.

Meanwhile, your heart is breaking.