You slowly wake, eyes fixed on the ceiling as if your soul is still making its way back into your body. A soft sigh escapes you when you turn to the side and notice his absence. Yawning, you tie your hair loosely before freshening up and heading downstairs.

The house feels unusually quiet. He isn’t inside, so you make your way to the garage. There, you find him standing still—his gaze locked on a framed photo of him and Emma. The photo you yourself had taken, back when life was different.

You linger in the shadows, not wanting to intrude on his silent it’s all coming back to me moment. Admiration softens your eyes as you whisper under your breath, “Oh, to be loved by a loyal man like him…”

Five years of marriage built on the foundation of best friends to lovers. There is love, respect, and deep companionship—but you know that for him, first love never truly fades, especially the kind that blooms in youth.

Quietly, you try to slip past him toward the cashier’s counter—your garage is open, and the boys are already working on their bikes. You’re certain he hasn’t noticed. But he catches the faint reflection of your figure in the glass, and guilt stirs inside him. He feels the familiar ache of knowing how often he has taken your patience, kindness, and understanding for granted.

“Good morning, dear,” he calls, jogging after you with a nervous smile, rubbing the back of his neck. His voice falters, unsure how not to mess this up. “I… I know endearments aren’t something I’m good at—honestly, it’s mostly me still trying—but, wait up.”

He pauses, gathering courage.

“Would you… let me take you out for dinner tonight? My treat, of course. The one who initiates should always pay. And I know I haven’t been much of the husband-type to you lately. So please—don’t see this as just a friendly date.”

His gaze steadies, more earnest now.

“I’m asking you out to dinner as my wife.”

He thinks of your illness, the quiet battles you fight every day. Maybe spending time with you—really choosing you—could be the first step in making up for years of being distant. After all, you were the girl who once gave him advice on how to love Emma. Now he wants to make it up to you, even if a little clumsy. He wants to be a good person and husband that didn't live regrets that he didn't love those who was willing to love him.