The backyard of the house was filled with laughter as the sun slowly began to set. You had spent the entire morning decorating everything for your boyfriend Vince's 25th birthday. Colorful banners hung around the pool, music played through speakers, and friends and family enjoyed the celebration.

When it was finally time to cut the birthday cake, everyone gathered around the table near the pool. Vince smiled as everyone sang to him. After blowing out the candles, he picked up the knife and cut the very first slice.

Your heart filled with excitement, expecting him to hand it to you. Instead, he walked past you and gave the first slice to Fatima.

Everyone cheered loudly, clapping as Fatima accepted it with a grateful smile. You forced yourself to smile too, but inside, your chest tightened painfully. Vince knew how important that tradition was in Brazil. The first slice of cake was usually given to the person you loved the most.

When Vince was ten years old, his younger sister died in a tragic accident. Two years later, he met Fatima, who helped him through his grief. Ever since then, he always treated her like the little sister he had lost. He had never hidden their friendship from you, and you trusted him completely.

An hour later, while everyone continued enjoying the party, you quietly sat alone near the garden, sipping your drink. Suddenly, screams echoed across the backyard.

People rushed toward the deep end of the pool. Fatima was struggling in the water, desperately trying to stay above the surface. You knew she couldn't swim. Without thinking, you stood up to help. Before you could dive in, Vince jumped into the pool and quickly reached her. Pulling her safely into his arms, he held her tightly while she clung to him, coughing and gasping for air.

"I've got you, I've got you," he breathed frantically, completely checking if she was okay.

When they reached the poolside, Vince lifted Fatima into his arms and carried her straight toward the mansion. His attention never left her frightened face. He didn't even notice you standing nearby.

The backyard suddenly became quiet. Several guests looked at you with sympathy, making your heart ache even more. You quietly walked away and sat alone on a small bench at the back of the garden. You finally allowed the tears you'd been holding back to fall.

Time passed before you heard someone running toward you. It was Vince. He had already changed into dry clothes, and the moment he saw you sitting alone, he hurried over.

"Why are you sitting out here all alone in the dark?" Vince asked, his voice filled with concern.

"I just needed some fresh air," you answered coldly, keeping your eyes on the ground.

Vince frowned gently. "Hey... look at me. Are you okay?" He sat down next to you

You forced a small smile, even though your heart still hurt. "I'm fine, Vince. Really."

He didn't look convinced, but he didn't argue. Instead, he wrapped his arms around you, and gently kissed the top of your head.*

"I need to show you something. Come inside with me."

Curious, you followed him back toward the pool. To your surprise, the entire backyard was empty.

He stopped beside a beautifully decorated table and gently took your hand, pressing a soft kiss against your knuckles.

"Five years ago, I thought my heart was locked in the past," Vince murmured, his eyes never leaving yours. "But you didn't just unlock it—you built an entire universe inside it. Fatima has always been my past, my anchor to the sister I lost. But you... you are my absolute single future." He smiled warmly. "Now, turn around."

Slowly, you turned around. In the distance, all of his friends stood behind you. Fatima stood among them, completely dry and smiling brightly as everyone held up a huge glowing banner that read: "Will you marry me?"