'I'm not used to gatherings like this, except for company events; like our CEO'S birthday party.' Zoe whispered to herself, graceful for the change of space.
With a warm smile Bernard stood up, his eyes scanning the lively party scene. "Hello, everyone, please can I have your attention? I know we're all gathered here for a special reason. And I'm honored to share this moment with all of you." He addresses his guests.
Everyone cheered and clapped for him.
"Huh, is Bernard the one hosting this party?" Zoe wondered, her mind racing with surprise. "He only told me to accompany him to a dinner party."
For the few months that Zoe had known Bernard; she realized that Bernard was full of surprises. But as she scanned the lively party scene, she couldn't help but wonder what he had up his sleeve this time.
With a dramatic pause. Bernard continued addressing his guests. "And now, it's the time to reveal the reason why we're all here tonight."
'Hmm, I would really like to see what Bernard has to reveal tonight.' Zoe's curiosity piqued as she thought.
Bernard's seamless execution of the surprise was made possible by Thomas, his royal friend and partner in planning.
Bernard's eyes flicked to his right, catching the eyes of Thomas, who was standing attentively. Bernard signaled Thomas and Thomas had to inform the team in charge to unveil the stunning, pink, oversized poster emblazoned with the bold, heartfelt words. "WILL YOU MARRY ME, ZOE.?"
"Hey, it's time." Thomas said softly to the waiting team. And in unison, they lifted the veil, revealing the beautifully crafted poster and its life-changing question.
The moment the poster was revealed. Zoe's eyes snapped to the message, and she froze. Her heart raced with emotions.
Turning to glance at Bernard, Zoe was shocked to find him already down on one knee. A radiant gold ring held delicately in his hand, his eyes locked on her as he asked. "Zoe, will you marry me?"
Soft "awe" of delight escaping from the lips of the surrounding women as they witnessed Bernard's heartfelt proposal.
Zoe's mind with memories of Bernard's gentle kindness, his patience, and his unwavering devotion. And with tears of happiness. She nodded, accepting the ring.
"Yes, I will marry you." Zoe said.
With trembling hands and a radiant smile. Bernard gently inserted the ring on Zoe's left fourth finger. Sealing their promise of forever.
A thunderous applause filled the air. Accompanied by cheers and tears of happiness, as Bernard and Zoe shared a tender kiss.
Thomas rushed over, beaming with joy, and warmly congratulated Bernard and Zoe on their engagement, embracing them in a heartfelt hug.
The room filled with well-wishes as Bernard's closed friends, including Jack and Chris, surrounded the newly engaged couple.
Among the well-wishers were Jack, Bernard's trusted business partner. And Chris, his cousin and friend since childhood, who had brought love and support.
"This is Zoe, my fiance—, Chris, my cousin and Jack, my trusted business partner." Bernard proudly introduced Zoe to his inner circle.
With a smile, Chris and Jack extended their hands, and Zoe shook hands with them. Feeling an instant connection with them.
However, Zoe's childhood friend from elementary school, Barbara, attended the party with her boyfriend. One of Bernard's specially selected friends.
Zoe and Barbara formed an unbreakable bond during their elementary and high school years. Which remained strong even after Zoe moved to Wimland to pursue her university degree.
Despite their strong friendship. Barbara and Zoe lost touch with each other after several years, as life took them in different directions.
Barbara's face lit up as she saw Zoe. And she stealthily got up, walked over, and surprised her with a soft whisper in her ear. "Long time no see."
Zoe spun around, her gaze met with the bright smile on her childhood friend Barbara. A sight that felt like no time had passed at all.
"Oh, my Goodness. Barbara, is that really you."? Zoe quickly rose up and threw her arms around Barbara, squeezing her tightly in a heartfelt, tear-filled embrace.
"It's been a long time, Zoe." Barbara murmured as they embraced. Her voice trembled with happiness.
As they hugged Zoe pulled back and asked.
"How have you been?"
"I have been fine. I actually came here with my boyfriend." She looked back trying to show Zoe her boyfriend but couldn't find him where they were seated. "Oh, he must have stood up to grab a drink. Barbara said.
"You mean—, you have been here and I didn't see you?" Zoe said and they both grinned out loudly.
"This is my fiance, Bernard. And Bernard this is my childhood best friend, Barbara—, we've been like sisters since we were kids.
Barbara extended her hands, and Bernard shook it warmly. His eyes crinkled at the corners in a friendly smile.
"Congratulations on your engagement! I'm so happy for the both of you." Barbara complimented.
"Thank you." Bernard and Zoe responded with a warm smile.
We've got a lot to talk about, Barbara." Zoe said, pulling out her phone. "Can I get your phone number so we can catch up soon?" Zoe asked.
"Of course, we really have a lot to talk about." Barbara said with a smile, taking Zoe's phone and typing in her number. Making sure they could reconnect whenever they wanted.
Zoe's thumbs danced across her phone's keypad as she quickly saved Barbara contact. Saving it as "BESTIE" with a smile.
With a final squeeze, Barbara whispered. "Take care of yourself, Zoe." before releasing her from the warm hug.
Zoe nodded. "Please enjoy the rest of the evening."
"I will." Barbara responded with a smile, leaving Zoe and went back to her seat.
As Zoe basked in the glow of her engagement and reunion. She felt the universe's benevolence, shining down on her, as if the stars had aligned to bring her two greatest joys together in one magical night. Bernard's proposal and Barbara's unexpected return, leaving her with an unshakable sense that the universe had remembered her and was smiling upon her.