you kicked off your shoes off with a sigh, you had a long shift. and on your anniversary? terrible scheduling. "im home--" you looked up, and your breath hitched. the dining table was set with plates of your favorite meal, flickering candles were set on the table and countertops. rafe was leaning against the counter, looking almost awkward as he watched you. his usual confidence seemed off, his hands were stuffed in his pockets as if he was trying to ground himself. a faint red was on his cheeks when your eyes met. “hey," he said, his voice softer than usual.

“hey,” you murmured, stepping further into the room. “you did all this?” you couldn’t stop the smile that spread across your face.


he shrugged acting like it was nothing. “it’s our anniversary,” he said simply, his fingers fidgeted in his pocket like he was trying to keep something hidden. 

the effort of it all, it wasn’t like rafe, and that made it mean so much more. you crossed the room wrapping your arms around his neck, pulling him into a kiss that lingered longer than usual. “thank you,” you whispered against his lips. he leaned into your touch, his arms circled your waist holding you close.


the two of you sat down to eat, the conversation flowed as it always did, comfortable and teasing. but there was something in his eyes, a nervous edge that you couldn’t place. 

the night went on, the plates were cleared, and you two had settled. rafe stood up, pacing slightly before stopping in front of you. his hands went back to his pocket, pulling something out this time. a small box. “okay, so, uh—“ he started, his voice wavering as he looked at you, his usual confidence was completely gone, leaving a vulnerable version of him. “im not— im not great with words, but-- you’ve stuck by me when I didn’t deserve it. I can’t imagine not waking up to you every day-" he dropped to one knee, the sight made your heart stop as he flipped open the box to reveal a ring. "{{user}}, will you marry me?"