Page 130 of Risky Move

“Hope you left your credit card at home,” Tom said. “Helping me look for a ring could turn into an expensive trip for you.”

Tom flipped through a binder featuring custom engagement rings.So many choices…gold, white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, platinum. I’m supposed to pick one?He remembered the first time they met at the airport—Cassie’s hair featured pink highlights. He also thought of the many times she used a rose-gold tint.

Andrew introduced him to the owner/craftsman, Marcus Vallejo, who chatted with Tom while Andrew wandered around to look at displays.

“Describe your Cassie’s personality. Does she prefer classic styles? Or does she embrace the contemporary look or something totally original?”

“A little of each, but leaning toward something original. She paints different color subtle highlights in her hair—I never know which color she’ll select. She reminds me of a butterfly—pastels and brilliant colors.” He shrugged as Marcus took notes, then began sketching ideas for a ring.

“Was there anything that caught your eye in our portfolio?”

“One ring had a diamond in the middle, then somehow looked like a butterfly. Another was the heart-shaped diamond with smaller stones outlining the diamond and continuing around the band.”

“Yes, I know both rings. Very beautiful, and we can custom choose the size of the diamond, the color or colors of the smaller stones. I think platinum will make the colors pop.” He quickly sketched the rings. “Or you could go with a braided band and focus attention on the heart-shaped diamond and surrounding stones. Do you know her birthstone?”

“Emerald.”

“And yours?”

“Sapphire.”

“Lovely combination. I can create several designs—similar to costume jewelry? I could have them ready in a few days—if you don’t like any of them, we’ll keep talking. Figure two weeks once you decide on a design.”

Tom pulled a card from his wallet and circled his email address and personal phone number. “Just let me know when you have the designs. I may need to make an after-hours appointment, depending on my schedule.”

Marcus stapled the card to the design sheet. “That will not pose a problem, Dr. Chadwick.”

* * *

Between finals, supervising the few renovations in the new home, and choosing furniture, Cassie lost track of time. She only remembered her birthday when Tom mentioned taking her out for dinner.

“What an airhead—I completely forgot! Of course, I’d love to goanywherewith you.”

Tom stifled a laugh by kissing her forehead. “Since you only turn twenty-one once, I’m taking you to an elegant restaurant.”

“So…I need to dress up?”

“Yes, my princess. But remember, so do I. No takeout or late dinner on the couch this time, babe.” Tom closed his arms around her. “I promise an evening you will not forget.”

She nestled against his chest, tucking her head against his shoulder. If she were a kitten, she’d purr contentedly. “I can’t wait.”

“Before we get side-tracked, I’ll pick you up at seven. This Saturday,” he emphasized.

“I won’t forget.” She put her hands on his cheeks and pulled his face toward her for a kiss. “And the house should be move-in ready next week.”

“Guess we need to start looking at furniture. You have time this weekend?”

“Always. The master bedroom set came today—I hope you like where everything’s placed.”

“The bed has a mattress?” Tom couldn’t resist the smirk.

“Yes. Sheets, too.”

“Perfect.” Tom teased his fingers across her cheek.

“And I’ve ordered linens and towels online. Some kitchen items. I’m storing everything in the garage until the work’s complete. I’ll show you the order confirmation—I probably forgot something essential.”

“That’s why Walmart’s open twenty-four-seven. Or we know several neighbors who can loan us anything wecan’t live without.Don’t sweat it.” Cassie caught the self-satisfied smile. “Any work underway on the pool deck?”

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