The sun had just dipped behind the snow-capped mountains, painting the sky in soft hues of pink and gold.
Mr. Wifey was sitting at the small table in their apartment, flipping through a notebook filled with medical notes. Even on vacation, she couldn't fully let go. She reviewed patient cases and jotted reminders for her training.
Mr. Hubby entered quietly, carrying a small velvet box.
"You brought homework with you again," he said, a teasing lilt in his voice.
"I'm a future doctor, Mr. Hubby," she replied lightly, eyes never leaving her notebook. "It's non-negotiable."
He smirked, stepping closer. "Non-negotiable, huh? Well, maybe some things should be negotiable."
He set the box in front of her, and she looked up, curiosity and caution mixing in her eyes.
"What's this?" she asked.
"Open it," he said softly, his gaze serious, making her chest tighten.
Inside was a simple but elegant silver ring, shining faintly under the apartment lights.
"I… what is this for?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly.
He reached out, taking her hand gently. "We've known each other for less than two months, maybe even less," he said, voice low and steady. "But in this short time, I've realized something. I don't want to imagine my life without you. I want you with me. Always."
Her eyes widened, a mix of shock and warmth flooding her heart.
"You… mean that?" she whispered.
He nodded. "Yes. Even if it's unreasonable. Even if our worlds are complicated. I want you in my life. Forever. Will you accept this?"
Her heart raced as she looked at the ring, then into his eyes to eyes that had made her laugh, made her feel safe, and sometimes made her pulse pound faster than she thought possible.
Slowly, she nodded. "I… I'll try. But your life and my life are so different."
He smiled, slipping the ring onto her finger gently. "I know. That's why it matters even more. Even with less time together, I want a lifetime with you."
The moment felt fragile, like a snowflake ready to melt, but beautiful.
She raised her hand, turning the ring slowly. "It's beautiful," she whispered.
"Not as beautiful as you," he said softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.
She blushed, laughing lightly. "Stop it, or I'll start believing you actually like me."
"I already do," he replied, voice almost a whisper but filled with certainty.
Outside, the snow fell quietly, covering the streets like a soft blanket. Inside the tiny apartment, the warmth between them grew. They sat close, hands intertwined, occasionally teasing and laughing.
Yet, beneath the comfort, a quiet tension lingered. He knew the world he belonged to, the dangerous, hidden part of him, could never fully merge with hers. And she, though she trusted him, could not imagine sharing a life with someone whose secrets could endanger them both.
But for now, they let themselves feel. For now, the ring was enough.
As they leaned back, snowflakes catching in the balcony lights, he whispered almost to himself that no matter what happens, I won't let her go.
She, unaware of the words, smiled softly, staring at her new ring.
Even if life gets complicated, I want this. I want him, she thought, heart fluttering.
Outside, the quiet of Switzerland seemed peaceful, but both of them knew storm clouds were coming.