A Proposal

Joshua had never been so nervous in his life. Or in the Doctor's life. He and Rose had already made a lifelong commitment. Now they were trying to solidify it in the eyes of both their peoples. But first, he had to propose. He wanted it to be perfect for her.

The date was March 4, 2011. It was a Friday. Joshua and Rose had been bonded for just over a week. And for that time, he had wracked his brain, trying to find some way to take her breath away.

He had left Torchwood at noon. He spent the afternoon getting everything ready. When Rose got home, he instructed her to dress for a date in the outdoors. He loaded the cooler and blanket into the back of the car while she was changing, trying not to spoil the surprise. It was near dusk when they finally headed out.

He drove her to a park outside of the city. He set up a picnic and beckoned her to join him. She grinned her cheeky little grin.

They ate the various types of nibbles that he had made. He had also brought wine glasses and poured them each a glass of wine. Since coming here, and becoming human, they had a found a nice sweet dessert wine that he liked. They sat and ate, watching the stars come out. They talked, about nothing and everything. They talked of their travels in the past, and places they wanted to go in the future. Mostly, they tried to enjoy one another's company.

Once the stars were out, Rose nestled herself into Joshua's arms as they lay staring at the night sky. He tilted her head back towards him and kissed her. Deep and slow. They kissed until they both ran out of breath. He edged his head back and looked her in the eyes.

"Rose Marion Tyler, for 900 years I have traversed time and space. When I met you, I was ready to give up. I had lost my home, my family, and wanted nothing more than to lose my life. But then I met this wonderful woman, all pink and yellow. She was brave, and didn't mind the dangers of my life. She understood my life and my choices, and didn't bat an eye when hard choices needed to be made. She supported me in everything. And then I lost her. Before that, I thought I could keep her at arms length. I did all sorts of stupid things to try to keep myself from falling deeper than I already had. It wasn't until I thought I had lost you forever that I saw how much of a fool I had been. I was already in love long before that. That's when I realized that I would do anything for you once I got you back. I love you, Rose Tyler. I know we're already bonded...but would you do me the honor of marrying me?"

Rose had teared up during his speech. He never faltered, and never took his eyes off hers. At some point, unnoticed to Rose, he had pulled out the ring. He gently pressed the box into her hands, waiting for her response. She smiled at him and brought him down for a heated kiss.

'Of course I'll marry you, you daft alien.'

They melted into one another.