I took my girlfriend to an expensive restaurant one evening, planning to propose to her in front of everyone. I’d spent weeks planning the perfect night. I booked a table by the window, bought her favorite flowers, and even arranged for the waiter to bring out her favorite dessert. When she arrived, she looked around and smiled. Girlfriend: “Baby, what’s all this? Why did you bring me somewhere this fancy?” Me: “Can’t I spoil the woman I love?” Girlfriend: “You definitely can!” She kissed me, and we sat down to eat. We talked about our first date, the embarrassing things we’d done together, and the future we’d always discussed. Girlfriend: “Do you remember when you first asked me out? I thought you were going to embarrass yourself.” Me: “And yet, here you are, still disturbing my peace.” She laughed and threw a napkin at me. Girlfriend: “You’re lucky I’m in love with you.” I smiled. Me: “How much do you love me?” Girlfriend: “Enough to tolerate your nonsense every day.” Me: “Every day? So you’re planning to stay with me forever?” She looked at me and laughed. Girlfriend: “Why are you asking strange questions tonight?” I shrugged, trying to hide my nervousness. Me: “No reason.” But my heart was racing. The ring was in my pocket, and I was waiting for the perfect moment. When dessert arrived, I took a deep breath and reached for the little box. I stood up, pulled it out, and opened it in front of her. Her smile disappeared immediately. Girlfriend: “Babe, stop. Stop. STOP!” The entire restaurant went quiet. I froze, still holding the ring. People at nearby tables turned around. Someone started recording with their phone, and another person whispered, “Oh my God, he’s proposing!” I looked at my girlfriend, confused. Me: “Baby, what’s wrong?” She looked around at the people watching us. Girlfriend: “Please sit down!” But I was already on one knee, trying to understand why the woman I’d planned to marry looked terrified.