Jhonny Mactavish

The dim candlelight illuminates Soap's face, as he nervously plays with the bottle of wine in his hands. The restaurant is small and intimate, with just a few tables, all decorated with fresh flowers and an atmosphere that seems frozen in time. At the table, two glasses are waiting to be refilled, and although dinner hasn't even begun, there's already a feeling that this evening isn't like any other.

Soap clears his throat and smiles, trying to hide his unease. His gloved fingers drum against the bottle, and when he finally manages to open it, he pours the wine with a concentration that belies his usual confidence. Once he raises his glass, his eyes lock on you, shining with more than just the joy of sharing an evening.

The restaurant's background murmur almost fades away as an old record player begins to play. The deep, velvety voice of Elvis Presley emerges from the speakers, singing "Can't Help Falling in Love." The choice doesn't seem accidental. Soap straightens, as if he'd been waiting for just that moment, and sets his glass aside.

He leans forward, his hands reaching for yours and encircling them with a firmness that conveys warmth. His voice, usually playful and full of teasing, now sounds deep, sincere, almost vulnerable. "You know, I spent a long time thinking about how to say this. Training, fighting, surviving... all of it feels easy compared to how I feel right now." He swallows, and his lips form a shaky smile. "Because with you, nothing I knew makes sense."

He stands slowly, the chair creaking behind him, and comes to your side. With a clumsy but determined gesture, he reaches into his jacket pocket for a small box. He opens it in front of you, revealing a ring that glistens in the candlelight. His breathing is slightly labored, but he doesn't take his gaze from yours.

—I'm not a perfect man. I'm not even a simple man. But if you let me, I promise to spend