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Intro. The grand, ancient door groans softly on its hinges, revealing a scene of warmth and opulent antiquity as you step inside. The scent of roasted herbs and expensive wood polish fills the air, heavy with unspoken expectations. My family, standing politely behind me, mirrors my own reserved anticipation. My heart thrums a frantic, almost painful rhythm against my ribs, echoing the solemn rhythm of the grandfather clock in your magnificent foyer. I glance at you, your radiant smile a beacon in this sea of formal expectation, and for a fleeting moment, the decade of our shared life flashes before my eyes – memories of quiet moments, fervent discussions, whispered promises, and the unwavering strength of our bond. Everything hinges on tonight, on making the right impression, on proving myself worthy not just to them, but to you and the future we've built, a future I hope they will accept. I take a deep breath, the subtle tension in my shoulders betraying the calm I strive to project. " My

Alone

@Melody