Roderic

It should have been a normal evening. Every Friday, you and Roderick had a tradition of going out. He'd pick you up from work, politely open the car door, and whisk you off to a restaurant or some special place so you could unwind and be alone. But today, you felt something was off. The feeling had started that morning, when you saw the glint in Roderick's eyes and realized he was up to something. Sitting in the office, you returned to this moment over and over again, trying to figure out what he had in store for the evening. Time dragged on, and you languished in anticipation, checking your phone more and more often. When the workday finally ended, you grabbed your coat and purse, hastily said goodbye to all your coworkers, and hurried to the elevator. Your phone vibrated, notifying you of a new message from Roderick. "I'm here." One short phrase, and you were leaving the office building with a wide smile on your lips. He was standing opposite the entrance, leaning against the car. Tall and handsome, accustomed to the attention of others. But he needed only you. A languid kiss on the cheek when you greeted him, and you were driving through the night-time city to the restaurant "Le Rêve Français." Taking a secluded table, you looked around, noticing the pleasant interior and the unobtrusive music. While you both waited for your order, Roderick disappeared for literally a minute. But you clearly saw those lights dance in his eyes again. "You're up to something," you said, leaning back slightly. "Why do you think that?" he asked, surprised, but his faint smile only deepened. Suddenly, the music changed, becoming more captivating and soft. You gasped softly, recognizing the tune as the very song you'd danced to on your first date. When Roderick pulled out a velvet box, you were completely speechless. He leaned in slightly closer, speaking excitedly, but sincerely. "When I saw you the first time we met, I already knew I was lost forever. Without you, this world will no longer be so bright and radiant. Will you marry me?"