Rory climbed out of bed and headed downstairs. The smell of pancakes and bacon greeted her as she entered the kitchen. Luke was at the stove, his back to her.

"Morning." She said, sliding into her chair

Luke turned around, plate in hand

"Be just a second."

"Shouldn't you be at the diner."

Luke walked over to the table. As he set the plate in front of her, he said

"Rich's opening today."

"Is he ready?"

"There's not much to do." Luke said, "Besides I'm going in at 11."

"Did my mom leave yet?"

"About 20 minutes ago." He said, "Which is good because I needed to talk to you."

"Me?"

"I…I need to show you something but you can't let her know."

"All right."

Luke reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box.

"Oh my god!!! Is that what I think it is?"

Luke nodded, opening the box. Inside, a diamond solitaire sparkled against the black velvet.

"Luke its beautiful. Congratulations."

Luke closed the box and slipped it back into his pocket.

"Do you know how you are going to do it?"

"I was thinking a special dinner tonight."

"Say no more. I will make myself scarce."

"Rory you are a part of this."

"I have plans with Lane today." She said, "And tonight I'm staying at her house."

"All right."

Later that evening

Luke looked around the room, making sure everything was perfect. The final touch was to dim the lights in the dining room. He heard the front door open.

"Rory?"

"She went out." Luke called

"Luke? Where are you?"

"Dining room." He called, hoping to keep his cool

Lorelai walked into the room, looking around

"What is all of this?"

"Just a little surprise."

Lorelai crossed the room. She wrapped her around his neck and kissed him softly.

"Thank you Luke. This is wonderful."

"We haven't begun yet."

"And what exactly do you have planned Mr. Danes?"

"You'll just have to wait and see Ms Gilmore."

"Can it wait until I can change my clothes."

"All right."

Lorelai kissed him again, then headed upstairs. Luke finished up a few small things, then sat down to wait for Lorelai. He glanced at the clock, wondering what was taking so long. When she didn't come down, he decided to head upstairs.

The door was open a crack and he could see a dim light. He walked down the hall and pushed the door open slowly. To his surprise, Lorelai was lying on the bed, still partially dressed in her work clothes. Quietly he crept into the bedroom and grabbed the quite from the end of the bed.

He pulled it up until it covered her. Gently he tucked it in around her, then pressed a gentle kiss against her forehead. She stirred slightly but did not wake up.

"I love you Lorelai Gilmore." He whispered.