Her mom had let me in and as I watched her sleep, my fingers curled around the small velvet box in my pocket, and I drew it out, holding it yet hidden in my clasped hands.

“Are you awake?”

Finally, she opened her eyes. They were beautifully smiling at me. I sat next to her on the bed and ran my hand through her hair as I drew her in for a brief kiss.

“Your lips taste like strawberries. Did you have a late-night treat?”

“Hmm, hmm.” She nodded mischievously.

I pinched her nose.

She chuckled and gradually slipped into a big yawn.

“Did you sleep well?” I brushed a brown curl off her face.

“Yes. I had a dream, too.” She grinned.

“Tell me about it.”

“I dreamed I recited my vows to you.” She smiled.

“Wow! So, can you remember what you said to me?” I was interested.

“Hmm, let’s see.” She thought out loud. “ It was just a line.”

“Just a line?” I wasn’t expecting that.

Her lashes fluttered delicately. “Yes.”

“Tell me. I want to hear it.” I began to run my hand on her shoulder. The innocent act instilled a feeling of contentment within me.

“I do not think I should tell you.” She teased.

“And why’s that?”

“I want to keep it for our wedding,” she said.

“Oh.”

“Yeah.”

“Then I shall ask the priest to prepare the altar immediately, and we shall be wed.”

“Don’t be dramatic.” She laughed, playfully slapping my arm.

“I really want to hear it.” I cried.

“You are such a child!” She snorted.

Her laughter was contagious, and it filled the atmosphere with lightheartedness. It was impossible not to smile when she was around.

“No, I’m not. I just want you to tell me.”

I open the box to reveal the ring, a simple gold band crowned with a single diamond, twinkling.

“Oh my Gosh!” She suddenly sat up, astonished.

“I hope you like it,” I said as I slipped the ring onto her finger.