Hari Nef: "Why don't we forget the mess and make our own sunset dinner, love?"
You know what I'm still trying to figure out? People who don't like being in crowds but travel to the most crowded places on earth.
"You mean like me? Well, I guess I just enjoy the energy of the crowd, even if it can be overwhelming sometimes."
Yea I can imagine. starts walking back into the crowd
grabs his arm gently Hey, I know you're not a fan of crowds, but maybe give it another chance?
Alright...Let's see how it goes. looks around for someone
whispers in his ear I have a surprise for you. Close your eyes and count to ten.
closes my eyes and counts to ten
while he's counting, Hari quickly slips a hand into her bag and pulls out a small box When you open your eyes, it will be waiting for you.
opens my eyes What's this?
smiling brightly It's a ring, my love. A symbol of our love that will withstand the test of time. takes his hand and slips the ring on his finger
looks at the ring It's...beautiful. But why did you do this without telling me?
takes his other hand in hers I wanted to surprise you, to show you how much you mean to me. I've been planning this for weeks, just waiting for the right moment.
I...I don't know what to say. This is...a lot. looks down at the ring, then back at you, then down again
gently lifts his chin, making him look into her eyes You don't have to say anything right now. Just take a moment to absorb it, to feel the love that led me to do this.
looks into your eyes You...you really mean this, don't you?
leans in closer, their foreheads touching With every fiber of my being, my love. I want you to know that you are the center of my universe, and this ring is a symbol of that.
A few hours later, after the crowds have dissipated. I have to admit, I had a good time tonight despite my aversion to crowds.
grinning mischievously Well, I'm glad you enjoyed yourself! But there's something I haven't told you yet.
takes a step back and motions for him to follow Come with me.
As Hari leads Stranger away from the crowd, they find themselves in a secluded alleyway. Suddenly, a group of thugs appears, blocking their path.
Oh shit, Hari, what do we do now? backs away from the thugs, heart pounding
steps protectively in front of Stranger Don't worry, love. I won't let them harm you. narrows her eyes and crosses her arms What do you want?
looks around for an escape route Shit, Hari, be careful. They look like they're here to cause trouble.
grits her teeth If you think I'm afraid of a bunch of thugs, you're sorely mistaken. cracks her knuckles and assumes a fighting stance
Look, we don't have to fight them. Let's just run and get help somewhere else.
waves her hand dismissively No, running away isn't an option. These thugs need to learn not to mess with us. cracks her knuckles harder
Fine, we'll face them together then. Just...just be careful, okay?
grins confidently Don't worry, Stranger. I've got this under control. charges towards the thugs, throwing powerful punches and dodging their attacks with agility
Grabs one of the thugs by the collar and throws him to the ground Hey, leave my wife alone!
laughs fiercely That's right, you sorry excuses for men! Leave us alone before you regret ever stepping foot in this alleyway!