Proposal No. 101

"But Tammy's health has always been a concern. The company was clearly targeting her on purpose! Aren't you a journalist? Why can't you write a report and expose that shady company for me?"

Drew's face twisted with outrage, as if he were the one being victimized.

I looked at him quietly, feeling only emptiness inside. Even his birthday gift came with strings attached.

Despite knowing it conflicted with my values and posed a risk to my career, I still gave my consent. After all, I had already submitted my resignation. That article would never see the light of day anyway.

As my words registered, Drew's eyes brightened with surprise and relief. "What? Are you actually saying yes? Honestly, I was just venting…"

We had our share of arguments over matters like this.

Drew was well aware that I would never exploit my position or violate the rules.

I smiled faintly and said, "Tammy's someone you grew up with. Of course, I want her to get better soon."

With a firm nod, Drew expressed his heartfelt thanks. "I really appreciate your understanding. Since you're being so considerate, I'll make it official and propose to you when I get promoted next month."

By then, I probably wouldn't even be permitted to use my phone.

Drew took my subtle smile as a green light to keep testing his limits.

"I mentioned before that Tammy's always wanted to be a journalist. Now that she's out of a job, maybe you could help her get into your department."

However, Tammy wasn't cut out for journalism—neither in terms of training nor temperament. And truthfully, I didn't have the influence to help her even if I wanted to.

But with my departure drawing near, I saw no point in resisting and complied without objection.

Drew was over the moon, grinning from ear to ear.

"Remember, Tammy's extremely sensitive. If anything goes wrong, make sure you take the blame for her. Also, don't let her get too overwhelmed. Draft a few strong articles for her so she can win over your boss and colleagues."

A flicker of hope shone in Drew's eyes at the thought of Tammy's future. To him, it didn't matter if that path was paved at my expense.

Seeing my calm demeanor, his excitement grew, and he kissed my forehead. "Bridget, you've really helped me out a lot. Thank you! I'll definitely drive you tomorrow."

With that, he hurried off to share the good news.

I quickly wiped my forehead, repulsed by the damp trace he had left behind.

All the love I once longed for now sickened me to my core.

With the help of tracking software, Drew was able to find exactly where I was. The very next day, he was waiting outside my hotel.

As he opened the car door, a cascade of flowers came into view.

"Surprise!" he called out, catching the eyes of nearby passersby.

Without hesitation, he pulled out a diamond ring and dropped to one knee.

"I want to propose before you leave on your trip. Bridget Weaving, will you—"

But before Drew could finish, his phone buzzed. Spotting the caller ID, he answered without a second thought.

Tammy was threatening suicide at the hospital again.

"Drew, I feel awful… Why aren't you here with me? Do you love Bridget now? Fine. I'll just end it. I won't be a burden to you two anymore."

Drew panicked, shouting that he would be there as fast as he could.

But just before getting into the car, he paused and looked back at me. A flicker of hesitation crossed his face.

"Maybe I should just finish the proposal first. There are doctors at the hospital anyway."

I forced a smile and urged him, "This is a life-or-death situation. You need to go. I've got my own schedule to stick to."

Drew breathed out a relieved sigh. "You've really matured so much. When you come back, I promise I'll make it up to you."

With that, he slammed the gas pedal and sped off, leaving a crowd of stunned onlookers behind.

I smiled and hailed a cab. By now, I had learned to expect proposals that ended in disappointment.

After stepping off the plane, I saw several missed calls from Drew. I ignored them all. I switched off my phone and handed it to the officer who was waiting to pick me up.