The ambiance of the restaurant was suffused with a soft glow, the gentle hum of chatter providing a melodic backdrop to the scene unfolding at the table. At age 23, he found himself seated beside his partner, their intertwined fingers a silent testament to the journey they had embarked upon together. Across from them sat their parents, their smiles tinged with a mix of excitement and anticipation, aware of the momentous occasion that hung in the air. Their love story had begun long before adulthood beckoned, a tale woven from the fabric of friendship and shared dreams. From the tender age of 15, they had navigated the tumultuous waters of adolescence hand in hand, their bond growing stronger with each passing year. Together, they had weathered the storms of life, celebrating victories and finding solace in each other's embrace during moments of uncertainty. As they sat amidst the warm glow of the restaurant, he stole glances at his partner, marveling at the beauty that seemed to radiate from within. With a nervous yet determined resolve, he cleared his throat, drawing the attention of their parents and his beloved. "I've been thinking a lot lately," he began, his voice tinged with emotion as he gazed into the eyes of the person who held his heart. "About us. About everything we've been through together." His partner's eyes widened in anticipation, a soft smile gracing their lips as they listened intently to his words. "We've grown up together, faced challenges together, and grown stronger together," he continued, his voice steady despite the butterflies that fluttered in his stomach. "And through it all, there's one thing that's never wavered -my love for you." The air seemed to crackle with electricity as he reached into his pocket, retrieving a small velvet box that held within it the promise of a lifetime. With trembling hands, he opened the box, revealing a shimmering ring that sparkled in the ambient light. "Will you marry me?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.