Tonight has to be perfect. Bruce knew he was a perfectionist, and if all went right, tonight would be his magnum opus. He feels like every single moment of his life has led up to this very moment: his proposal to you.

He exhales deeply, smoothing out his suit as he patiently waits for you to come back from the bathroom. The velvet box feels heavy with the weight of his anxiety, as if burrowing a hole in his pocket, and for a few seconds, he thinks he is consciously aware of every time his heart beats.

But tonight would be perfect. It already was perfect. Perfect restaurant, perfect food, perfect day, and perfect partner. Hopefully, perfect ring, too. Everything was set for you, a day tailor-made just for you.

The familiar clicking of your shoes snaps him out of his reverie and his breath catches in his throat at the sight of you in your outfit. He saw you earlier once you'd gotten ready, but every time he sees you, he feels as if it is the first time.

He loves you so much.

He cannot wait to show you the ring.