Page 66 of Baran
The last present from Baran was a framed photo of the two of them sledding, their laughter frozen in time. Daddy Darienstared at it for a long moment, then set it down carefully before pulling Baran into a quick hug. “This is my favorite. It means a lot.”
As the night went on, they finished opening their gifts: matching Christmas sweaters, playful and festive, and more small surprises that made them both smile. By the end, the floor was a mess of shredded wrapping paper and ribbons, but neither cared. They sat together on the rug, leaning against the couch, their matching bracelets on their wrists and their gifts spread out around them. Daddy Darien reached into his pocket, his hand trembling slightly. He pulled out a small box, wrapped in dark green paper with a simple gold ribbon, and held it out to Baran.
Baran raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. “What’s this? We said five presents.”
“I made an exception,” Daddy Darien said with a nervous edge to his voice.
Baran took the box and carefully unwrapped it. Inside was a sleek black velvet box. He opened it, revealing two matching gold rings. The bands were simple yet polished to a bright shine, with a subtle braided design etched along the edges.
Baran glanced up, his brow furrowed in confusion, but Daddy Darien handed him a small, folded note.
Baran unfolded the paper and read the neatly written words aloud:
“This is a promise ring—to get married in one year. If you’ll have me.”
Baran’s breath caught, and he looked up at Daddy Darien, who was watching him intently, his dark eyes filled with both hope and vulnerability.
“You’re serious?” Baran asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
Daddy Darien nodded, his lips curving into a tentative smile. “I’ve never been more serious about anything. You mean everything to me, Baran. I don’t want to wait forever—I want us to plan our future together.”
For a moment, Baran was silent, staring at the rings. Then he reached out, pulling Daddy Darien into a tight embrace. His voice trembled as he said, “Yes. I’ll wear it. I’ll marry you in one year.”
Daddy Darien exhaled, relief flooding through him as he hugged Baran back, their embrace filled with a quiet intensity. He picked up one of the rings and slid it onto Baran’s finger, where it fit perfectly. Then Baran took the other ring and placed it on Daddy Darien’s finger, their hands lingering together for a moment.
The gold caught the glow of the Christmas tree lights, and both of them sat there, holding each other, the weight of their shared promise settling over them like the most perfect gift.
Baran glanced at Daddy Darien, who was still admiring the photo. “Merry Christmas,” he said.
Daddy Darien looked back, his smile warm. “Merry Christmas, Baran.”
Chapter Thirty
Baran
Early Christmas morning, MissCharlotte’s sister dropped her off at home. Daddy Darien and Baran were showered and had packed an overnight bag. They made their way downstairs to the kitchen because they smelled bacon cooking.
“What are you doing in the kitchen on Christmas Day?” Daddy Darien asked.
“We need to eat before we leave for Wainscott. No point in stopping at a restaurant,” Miss Charlotte said.
Daddy Darien hugged her. “Merry Christmas, Charlotte. I love you.”
Baran hugged her too and wished her a Merry Christmas. They all sat down to her famous pancakes.
Daddy Darien handed her a red envelope. “This is your Christmas present and open it now, please.”
As she opened the envelope and started reading, Daddy Darien explained. “See those dates? You’re off. So have a delightful visit with your family in Scotland.”
“Wow! Really?” she screamed as the tears rolled down her cheeks..
They piled into the car, the engine vibrating through their seats as it roared to life, and drove towards Wainscott, their stomachs still full of breakfast. Baran gave Miss Charlotte the front seat beside Daddy Darien out of respect. It seemed like a long drive, because they hit some traffic.
“How long is it to Wainscott?” Baran asked.
“Normally around two hours, but with the snow falling and the holiday, it might take longer.”
After three hours, they arrived in Wainscott. Baran stood on the sandy beach, gazing at the house that seemed to emerge from the dunes. It was a large, two-story structure with a dark shingle exterior, its weathered wood blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Large windows offered stunning views of the ocean. A wraparound porch, supported by sturdy white columns, provided a perfect spot for enjoying the sea breeze and watching the waves roll in. Not another home was in view. He hadn’t expected a home on the beach. He had no idea Daddy Darien's parents lived on the sand. Baran followed Daddy Darien and Miss Charlotte up the stone steps of the grand coastal house, his keen eyes scanning the immaculate surroundings. As the front door swung open, a wave of warmthspilled out, carrying the faint aroma of sea air and something sweet baking inside.
