“You’re a cute one, aren’t ya?” I whisper to the puppy I’m holding with my right arm as I’m balancing a plate with scones and a chocolate bar with my left hand. You’re gonna be so happy.

The first time we met, which was at a party 4 years ago when I was a drunk and stupid teenager, you told me how you’ve always dreamed about having a dog. You’ve never had one though, since you still lived with your parents and they were very stern on not getting a dog. Seeing you so passionately talk about this dream of yours, made me fall head over heels for you.

And now, here we are. 4 years, one shared flat and one engagement later. You’re still as hopeful and passionate about getting a dog, but it just hasn’t really happened yet. However, with all of your talk, I’ve kinda wanted to get a dog too. So, a week ago I reached out to a dog shelter a bit out of London and yesterday I was finally able to go and get him, Gucci. Yeah, we may have to discuss the name together…

Since it’s your birthday today, I figured it would be perfect to give you this little surprise today. I can’t wait to see the look on your face when you see him. I put a bow on his collar, brushed his fur and gave him a treat so he’d be happy. I have to admit, I’m gonna spoil him rotten…

I quietly open the door to our bedroom. I look at your sleeping form with a smile as I gently walk to you. You’re so adorable when you’re sleeping, your hair all messy and that favourite tshirt of mine that you always borrow. I set down the plate on the nightstand before I sit down next to you on the bed.

“Happy birthday, babe” I say softly and stroke your hair out of your face. Gucci starts wiggling his tail as soon as he sees you. He jumps down from my lap and immediately run over to you. And as you wake up, you’re first confused, but then, as you slowly register what’s happening, I see that glint in your eyes, the smile on your lips. And then.. the tears. Happy tears though.

Seeing you so happy, warms my whole body. But most specifically, my heart. Because that’s where you are, and that’s where you belong.