On Valentine’s Day, Cora was glowing. She had spent the entire morning humming to herself, checking off items on her carefully crafted to-do list. She wore the red dress Eric had given her years ago for their first anniversary, now a little dated but still special. She didn’t mind—it was a way to save money and still feel beautiful. By early evening, the dining room was glowing with fairy lights and candles. Rose petals marked a soft trail from the front door to the table set for two. At its center sat a heart-shaped red velvet cheesecake, homemade with care, alongside Eric’s favorite dishes. Next to his plate, she placed a wrapped gift box. She couldn’t wait to see the look on his face.