"cut from the same cloth" - their story.

Chapter 21 - forever.

In the weeks following the initial shock of Charlotte's diagnosis, Mia felt an increasing urgency to solidify the bond they shared. She wanted to show Charlotte that despite the uncertainty and challenges, their love was a constant source of strength and comfort. One evening, after a particularly draining day filled with hospital visits and emotional ups and downs, Mia decided to create a moment that would offer a glimmer of joy and reassurance. She wanted to mark their commitment to each other in a way that transcended the struggles they were facing. Mia spent the day preparing a special surprise for Charlotte. She transformed their living room into a serene, intimate haven. Fairy lights twinkled gently, casting a warm, golden glow across the room. Candles flickered softly on the table, filling the air with a delicate, calming scent. Photographs of their happiest moments were strategically placed around the room, each one a reminder of their shared love and the journey they had been on together. She prepared a dinner with all of Charlotte's favorite dishes—comforting, familiar, and lovingly made. Each detail was carefully chosen to create a space that felt both soothing and special. As evening approached, Mia felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. She wanted this moment to be perfect, to convey the depth of her feelings and the certainty she had about their future together. When Charlotte finally walked through the door, she was immediately enveloped by the gentle ambiance Mia had created. The sight of the lovingly decorated room, the delicious aroma of the meal, and the soft music playing in the background made her eyes well up with emotion.

"Mia, this is incredible," Charlotte said, her voice trembling with both surprise and gratitude. "Why did you do all this?"

Mia took Charlotte's hands in hers, her eyes filled with sincerity and affection. "I wanted to remind us of the beauty in our life together, despite everything we're facing. We've been through so much, and I want you to know how deeply I love you and how much I cherish every moment we have together."

They shared a quiet, heartfelt dinner, their conversation a mix of shared memories and future hopes. Each bite, each laugh, felt like a precious moment of normalcy amidst the turbulence of their lives. After dinner, Mia led Charlotte to a cozy spot in the center of the room, where a soft blanket lay on the floor surrounded by the gentle glow of candles and framed photographs. Mia's heart raced as she knelt down, her eyes locked onto Charlotte's with a mixture of vulnerability and determination.

"Charlotte," Mia began, her voice steady but full of emotion. "In these past few weeks, I've seen you face challenges with such strength and grace. Your courage and love have been my guiding light, and I've come to realize just how much you mean to me."

Charlotte's eyes were brimming with tears as she looked at Mia, sensing the gravity of the moment. "Mia, what's wrong?"

Mia reached into her pocket and pulled out a small, velvet ring box. Her hands trembled slightly as she opened it, revealing a stunning engagement ring that sparkled in the candlelight. "I want to spend my life with you, Charlotte. Through every trial, every joy, and every moment in between. I want to stand by your side, now and forever. Will you marry me?"

Charlotte's breath caught in her throat, her emotions overwhelming her. Tears streamed down her face as she gazed at the ring and then back at Mia, her heart swelling with love and disbelief. "Mia... I... I don't know what to say."

Mia's eyes were filled with a mixture of hope and trepidation. "You don't have to say anything right now. I just want you to know how deeply I love you and how committed I am to our future. I want to face everything together, and I believe that our love will see us through."