Since the Day We Met

Sixteen

HongJoong's POV

My life had undergone a drastic transformation. Everything had become incredibly intense, and in the near future, not only was there the tour, but also our first Christmas with Jennifer and little Harper. I could hardly contain my excitement to shower them both with love and affection. Shopping for gifts was relatively easy for Harper since she adored dolls and stuffed animals. For Jennifer, on the other hand, I had grand plans to make it truly memorable.

The weeks leading up to the tour were a whirlwind of emotions. Balancing work, rehearsals, and family time seemed to be an insurmountable task. Regardless, I was determined to make the most of it all, bearing in mind that these memories would last a lifetime.As we counted down the days until our big event, Jennifer and I hashed out a plan for the perfect Christmas. We would need to work around the hectic schedule, yet ensure we did not skimp on any detail. Little Harper's eyes lighting up at every new decoration was just another reminder of how magical this time of year was.One evening after dinner, Jennifer and I sorted through Harper's ever-growing collection of toys, selecting some for donation to make room for her new gifts. It was an emotional moment for Jennifer, realizing how quickly her baby girl was growing up before her eyes. We exchanged knowing glances as we carried on with our task, vowing never to take these moments for granted.The weeks blended into one another as work continued at a frenetic pace. Phone calls and emails flew back and forth with organizers and management about the upcoming tour. Simultaneously, I tangled in the hustle of interviews and promotional tasks that always accompanied such endeavours. Despite all this, our bond with Jennifer only strengthened as we faced each challenge head-on.At night when Harper lay fast asleep between us in her cozy toddler bed – a temporary solution before she would transition into her room – Jennifer and I talked about life and dreams. What had started as co-parenting had blossomed into something more profound than either of us had anticipated. Love was no longer just an emotion; it was the foundation upon which we built our relationship.With the tour rapidly approaching and the festive season well underway, I knew I had to act fast if I were going to pull off my surprise for Jennifer. Collaborating with her closest friends, we arranged the groundwork for a beautiful day filled with her favorite things. A spa appointment, brunch at a chic café, and quality time with her besties – all while I took care of Harper's needs so that she could truly relax and plug-off.As Jennifer embarked on her day of luxury, I enlisted the help of my friends to be able to watch harper this evening when  she returned so her and I could go on a romantic picnic and allow me to ask her to be mine forever. Harper of course was going shopping with me today to find the perfect ring for her mom. And i was also gonna get her a little necklace for her so she knew i would be teh ebst step daddy i could be. 

So getting her ready in her warm clothes, jacket, boots and had I was ready to embark on our daddy daughter day. 

Harper, dressed in her cute winter outfit, clung to my hand as we wandered through the mall. Her excitement was contagious, making me smile from ear to ear as we walked from store to store. Our mission was a special one: finding the perfect ring for Jennifer and a charming little necklace for Harper as a symbol of my commitment.As we stepped into an exquisite jewelry store, a friendly saleswoman greeted us. She instantly took a liking to Harper, playfully entertaining her while also guiding me through the selection of engagement rings and necklaces. With Harper pointing at her favorites, we made it a fun and collaborative experience.After carefully examining several options and taking into consideration Harper's input, I finally settled on a stunning solitaire engagement ring with a delicate band that would suit Jennifer's elegant style. For Harper, I picked out an adorable heart pendant necklace – simple yet meaningful.With both the ring and necklace securely wrapped up, Harper and I decided to have a quick snack break before meeting up with my friends who had kindly agreed to babysit while Jennifer and I enjoyed our romantic evening together. Sharing an ice cream sundae with Harper felt like the perfect bonding moment; her face lighting up with joy as she took each bite.Once everything was set in place for tonight's surprise picnic and with my friends notified of our plan, they arrived at our home just as Jennifer returned from her rejuvenating day out with friends. She looked radiant, the glow of relaxation emanating from her face.Upon seeing her, I extended my hand and gently asked, "May I have this dance?" Bemused but delighted, Jennifer took my hand as soft music began playing from the living room speakers. As we swayed back and forth in each other's arms, Harper joined in by dancing around us - making this moment even more endearing.Once the song had ended, it was time for us to leave for our surprise destination. With a gentle kiss on Harper's cheek, we bid her farewell and thanked our friends for looking after her tonight.Our destination was not too far away; I had secretly set up a beautiful, romantic picnic at the park where Jennifer and I had our first family picnic together here in KOrea. A cozy blanket, warm lanterns, and an assortment of our favorite foods awaited us under a canopy of twinkling fairy lights. Jennifer's eyes filled with happy tears as she took in the sight, realizing the effort I had put into organizing this romantic evening for us.As we sat on the blanket, I handed her a glass of wine and began to reminisce about the incredible journey we had been on together. From co-parenting to falling in love, I expressed my appreciation for everything she brought into our lives, not just for Harper but for me as well.We laughed as we shared stories of our favorite memories with Harper and marveled at how brilliantly our lives had come together despite the unexpected circumstances that had brought us three closer as a family.
As dessert was being served, I reached into my pocket and pulled out the small velvet box that held Jennifer's engagement ring. Her eyes widened in surprise as I got down on one knee and began to reveal my heartfelt proposal."Jennifer, you have brought indescribable happiness into our lives – not just Harper's but also mine. Your kindness, warmth, and unwavering support have made me realize that love is possible even when life throws curveballs. You have shown me what it means to be a partner and a parent in the most beautiful ways possible.""I cannot imagine my future without you in it. So, I am asking if you would do me the honor of becoming my wife. Will you marry me?"Tears streaming down her face, Jennifer nodded vigorously before saying yes with absolute certainty. I slid the delicate engagement ring onto her finger as we embraced, sealing an unforgettable moment that marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in our story.As we continued to enjoy our delightful picnic under the starry sky, I handed another small box to Harper, who had joined us after our friends brought her to witness this special event. She eagerly opened it up to reveal the sweet heart pendant necklace I had picked out for her earlier during our shopping trip. I placed it around her neck, promising that I would love and care for her as if she were my own child.Harper's big, innocent eyes sparkled with joy as she threw her arms around me and whispered, "Thank you, Daddy."

"You're welcome princess..." i said hugging her tightly.