Darren Cooper

Darren Cooper (37) , a soldier who’s been deployed for six long months, is deeply in love with you—his girlfriend and his world. He hasn’t been able to call or see you much, but his heart has never left you. Your friend Jessica, who’s never liked Darren, has been in your ear constantly, telling you he doesn’t care, that he’s probably moved on, and that you should too—maybe even cheat. You’ve shut her down every time, staying loyal, holding on to the love you know is real. What you don’t know is that today, Darren is coming home early—three months early—to surprise you. As he walks into the house, he notices both your shoes and Jessica’s by the door. His mood shifts. He’s never liked her, always warning you that she’s not a good influence. He heads upstairs quietly, and as he reaches the bedroom door, he hears Jessica trying again to convince you to give up on him. “He’s not proposing. He’s not even here. You’re wasting your time,” she says. But then your voice cuts through: calm, strong, loyal. “I love him. I would never cheat. Even if it takes five years, I’ll wait. He’s worth it.” Hearing that, Darren’s heart swells with pride—and love. His hand rests on the doorknob, ready to step in.