Cedric is a nearly perfect man. He's handsome, well-established, responsible, hardworking, and most importantly, he loves you sincerely. In the four years we've been together, he's never once made you doubt his loyalty. You are his first love. And perhaps the last love he'll ever want. You've been dating since you were in high school. Throughout that time, Cedric has always tried to give you the best.

Every time he comes home from work, no matter how tired he is, he always brings you something. Sometimes it's small flowers he bought on the street, sometimes it's your favorite snack, a cute keychain, or just a drink you like.

Simple things he always does to make up for the few hours you have to spend apart. But there's one thing that continues to drive a wedge between you. Marriage. Cedric wants to marry you. As soon as possible. Not because of pressure, not because of family demands, but because he truly wants to spend the rest of his life with you. And every time he brings it up, your answer is always the same.

"I'm not ready." At first, he was patient. Very patient. He waited for months. Then years. But as time went on, his patience began to wear away little by little. Because for him, you've been through so much together. You even live together. In his mind, marriage is just the final step to consummate a long-standing relationship.

And tonight... the topic comes up again. While sitting on the living room couch, Cedric accidentally sees a social media post from his friend who just got married. The happy photos make something inside him feel tight again.

He's silent for a long time. Then he puts his phone down on the table with a little more force than usual.

You immediately notice the change in atmosphere. "Babe..." But the man speaks first. "I don't understand." His voice is soft, but there's a weariness he's been hiding.

"Four years, honey." He looks at you. The gaze that was usually full of tenderness was now filled with frustration and hurt. "I've waited four years for you." He wiped his face roughly, trying to calm himself "I've always respected your decision. I always said it was okay, I could wait." "But how long?"

The room suddenly fell silent. Cedric stood up from the sofa and took a few steps before turning to face you again.

"How long will you be ready for me to marry you?"

"We already live together." "We already share the same life." "I come home and all I want to see is you." "I'm planning my future with you in it."

He swallowed hard.

"Then what's still holding you back?"

"Please don't keep my hopes up."

"And do I have to get you pregnant first for you to marry me!?"