Agnes blinked, caught off guard. This was the first time Tom had complimented her so openly, with a playful, almost teasing tone. His deep eyes held a warmth that made her heart skip. She fumbled for a response, her cheeks flushing. Smoothing her hair back, she glanced at the Ferris wheel, its blue lights casting a soft glow. “The Ferris wheel’s so pretty it’s making me blush,” she said with a shy laugh. “And you… you look different tonight. Handsome, I mean.” She paused, wondering if the magic of the moment was making her see him in a new light.
Tom grinned, his usual composure slipping. Tonight felt different for him too. He’d never done anything like this before-planned every detail, hoping it would be a surprise she’d cherish, not just another ordinary night. Seeing her bathed in the blue light, he couldn’t help but stare, momentarily lost in her beauty.
He reached out, his hand steady. “Give me your hand,” he said softly, his voice warm. “Let’s ride the Ferris wheel.” His gaze never wavered, and Agnes felt her pulse quicken. Was this real? She hesitated for a second before slipping her hand into his, their fingers intertwining as he led her forward.
The world seemed to blur around her. This had to be the most unforgettable birthday of her life. She’d dreamed of moments like this, and now it was happening. She’d paint this scene later, every detail etched in her memory.
“Careful,” Tom murmured as he guided her into the Ferris wheel cabin. Agnes froze, her eyes widening. The space was transformed-flowers, a cake, and tiny lights twinkled around her. In the center stood a crescent moon lamp, its soft glow filling the cabin.
She stepped inside, her breath catching. Tom followed, securing the safety door behind them. Agnes scanned the room, her eyes landing on the cake. *Bubu, Happy Birthday.* Her heart leapt. She turned to Tom, her voice barely a whisper. “How did you know?”
Tom’s smile was tender. Tears welled in Agnes’s eyes, her voice trembling. “Today’s my birthday… how did you know?” She loved him so much it hurt, and the thoughtfulness of his gesture overwhelmed her. Tears spilled down her cheeks, and Tom panicked.
“Hey, don’t cry,” he said quickly, brushing her tears away with his fingertips. “I wanted to make you happy, not sad.” His voice was soft, but there was a hint of worry in his eyes.
Agnes tried to steady herself, but the emotions were too much. It all felt like a dream. “When did you find out?” she asked again, her voice shaky.
Tom placed his hands on her shoulders, his gaze steady. “I read every email you sent me. Every year, on your birthday, you’d tell me about your day.”
Her tears flowed freely now, but they were tears of joy. Tom pulled her into a tight embrace. “I’m sorry I wasn’t brave enough sooner,” he whispered, his own eyes glistening. “Will you be my girlfriend? Let me love you the way you deserve.”
Agnes clung to him, her tears soaking his shirt. She’d waited so long for this moment-so long she’d almost given up hope. But here he was, holding her, and it was everything she’d ever wanted.