Everything was in place.

The banner was perfect this time—"Congratulations Chief of Psychology" printed in bold, centered, and hung with care by Meredith and Cristina (after three arguments and a stapler incident). The cafeteria had been cleared for the surprise. The lights dimmed just enough. And everyone was already pretending they didn’t know what was coming.

Except for one thing.

The flowers were missing.

Alex stood near the center of the room, dressed nicer than usual, checking his pocket for the velvet ring box for the tenth time. Just as panic started to creep in, Mark walked in holding a bouquet.

—“Lose something, Karev?” he asked, holding out the slightly travel-worn flowers. “Found these in my office.”

Alex snatched them.

—“How the hell—whatever. Thanks.”

He barely had time to curse under his breath before you entered the room. Applause broke out, people stepped aside, and your eyes landed on Alex.

Standing in the middle of it all—box in one hand, bouquet in the other—he looked both terrified and completely in love.

He walked toward you, heart racing, and said, “I had a speech, but… screw it. You already know everything.”

He handed you the flowers with one hand, then opened the ring box with the other.

—“I love you. I’m proud of you. Will you marry me?”