On Saturday, March 8th, Jazmene and Philippe packed up the car in New Jersey and drove ten hours to Myrtle Beach for a little getaway. The weekend leading up to Monday, March 10th was filled with family traditions and simple joys — listening to gospel and old-school jams, savoring delicious food, trying their first espresso martini, playing a few rounds of miniature golf, and visiting places from Jazmene’s childhood that she was so excited to share with Philippe. For her, it was simply a chance to relive old memories and create new ones with him — never once did she imagine what he had planned. Then came the morning of Monday, March 10th. The couple woke up early for an excursion. The night before, Philippe had stressed how important it was that they be on time. Punctuality came naturally to Jazmene, but it struck her as funny since he was usually the one who ran late. Still, she got ready and waited while he finished up — and about thirty minutes later, they finally headed out the door. On the way, Jazmene wondered what kind of excursion could be exciting to do in Myrtle Beach, especially with such rainy and cloudy weather. Nevertheless, they arrived right at 9 a.m. sharp. As they pulled up, she read the sign aloud: “Myrtle Beach Safari—wow, I didn’t know Myrtle Beach had a safari!” They checked in with guest services along with six other families and couples, then waited for the tour to begin. During the tour, they were treated to light refreshments, and along the way they met many animals: ligers, jaguars, Egyptian cats, wolves, tigers, monkeys, hawks, and even chimpanzees. But Jazmene had no idea what awaited at the end of the tour. The guide introduced the next animal by asking if anyone knew one of the smartest animals. Jazmene was too shy to answer but thought to herself, “an elephant.” Then in walked Bubbles, a 45-year-old elephant rescued as a baby and lovingly cared for ever since. Jazmene smiled ear to ear watching Bubbles eat watermelon and drink fruit punch — amazed to be so close to her favorite animal. The tour guides then handed out carrots and asked if anyone wanted to feed Bubbles. Jazmene was stunned but eager to be that close. She patiently watched each group have their moment, eagerly awaiting her turn. Then a tour guide approached and said, “Hey, I want to show you something.” Confused but curious, Jazmene agreed. As she turned, she saw a pond. The guide mentioned that turtles sometimes hid there, but despite her efforts, none appeared that day. Turning back to Bubbles with the carrot still in her hand, Jazmene focused on the task. As Philippe and Jazmene began walking down the stairs, Jazmene felt nothing could come between her and Bubbles. Suddenly, the guide said, “I want both of you to turn around.” Jazmene sighed, confused about why they were the last couple to interact with Bubbles, unlike the others. The guide quickly told Philippe to step back, leaving Jazmene alone — even more confused and a little nervous that Philippe might be playing a joke, as he often did. Then, ten seconds later, the guide said, “Okay, young lady, you can turn around.” What she saw took her breath away: Bubbles held a sign with her trunk that read, “Will you marry me?” and there was Philippe, down on one knee, asking for her hand in marriage. At that moment, the rain stopped, and Jazmene felt her grandmother’s presence through Bubbles — her favorite animal — making the proposal the most magical and unforgettable moment of her life.