Torpe didn't recall being this nervous since his very first piano solo with the orchestra. The shy pianist had planned the moment time after time in his head. He spent nearly all his free time for the past few weeks now meticulously composing the perfect piece which was a declaration of his deep adoration in itself, all building up to the nerve-wracking moment he would ask Danchou the question that had been on his heart for so long. However, with the fated autumn evening fast approaching, all of his practice seemed utterly useless.

Everything was in order. The subtle decorations, not too obvious where his lover could suspect anything, yet still contributing to the warm atmosphere he had aimed for. The grand piano, with the sheet music he had crafted on the stand. The spot, so familiar to the two— a sentiment to all the days they had spent together practicing and sharing laughter, dating or not. It was perfect.

Except for the fact that Torpe was convinced he was going to faint from the sheer anxiety he was feeling before he could even utter the words "Will you marry me?" What if he accidentally pressed the wrong key? What if he lost the ring in his pocket before he could give it to him!?

The warm glow of rose-scented candles casted shadows on the intricately carved walls of the large orchestra hall. It was time— the night had arrived. Torpe’s trembling fingers gripped the lace on the sleeve of the fancy white shirt he was wearing, his heart beating oh so fast as he heard the love of his life’s distant footsteps. He could see his silhouette in the doorway, and took a deep breath, managing not to stutter. Today really was full of surprises, wasn’t it.

“Danchou-san..”