Ridge and Taylor’s love has withstood years of heartbreak, and as they reunite, Ridge is convinced this time is different. He feels a deep happiness he hasn’t known in years, and Taylor, ever his source of comfort, seems just as certain. Ridge is ready to take the next step—he wants to propose. But just when everything seems perfect, a shocking revelation threatens to tear them apart.

One evening, while Taylor is out, Ridge stumbles upon an email on her laptop from a man expressing how much he misses her. A deep unease settles in as he realizes Taylor had a romantic relationship before their reunion—and they are still in contact. For a man who has struggled with trust, this feels like a betrayal.

The next morning, Ridge confronts Taylor, his voice laced with pain and anger. Taylor, caught off guard, tearfully explains that the man, Dr. Andrew Caldwell, had been there during her loneliest days when she believed Ridge was lost to her forever. Though their connection was brief and ended when Ridge returned, Andrew continued reaching out. Taylor insists she never intended to deceive Ridge, but he struggles to accept her words, seeing emotional loyalty as just as vital as physical faithfulness.

Torn between his wounded pride and his love for Taylor, Ridge seeks answers directly from Andrew. The tense meeting reveals that Taylor had indeed ended the relationship, but Ridge’s insecurities still cloud his judgment. Only after reflecting on his own past mistakes does he realize the depth of Taylor’s love and the weight of his own reaction.

When he returns to Taylor, the air is thick with unspoken pain. Yet, in his vulnerability, Ridge acknowledges his fear and apologizes—not just for his anger, but for every moment he ever made her feel second best. Taylor, despite her heartbreak, chooses forgiveness, believing their love is worth fighting for. In a quiet, deeply emotional moment, Ridge finally asks Taylor to marry him—not with grand gestures, but with the sincer