Page 87 of Moonlit Kisses

–max–

While Molly’s atShelter,I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to visit the jewelry store. I step inside and wander around the store, studying the displays carefully. The cabinets are full of ostentatious rings, which I can’t see Molly wearing. When I step up to the last cabinet, the perfect wedding set catches my eye. It must be white gold, because I don’t think they make wedding rings in silver. It has one medium-sized diamond in the middle which looks a little like a snowflake, with two diamonds on either side, becoming smaller. Small gaps between the diamonds are filled with some fancy design on the band. It reminds me of the delicate jewelry Molly wears and I think she’d really like this.

“Can I help you, Sir?” I startle at the woman’s voice. She glances at the cabinet, her eyes catching on the ring I was admiring. She smiles at me. “That’s a pretty ring. Would you like to see it properly?”

I nod. “Yes, please.”

As she unlocks the cabinet, I step back to give the woman space. “I’m Stephanie. Did you want to look at the matching wedding ring, too?”

“Thanks.” I lift my chin. “I’m Max.”

She nods as she collects both rings and places them on a cushion on top of the counter. “These rings are eighteen karat white gold. The largest diamond in the engagement ring is zero point five zero carat, the next two are zero point two five carats each, and the smallest ones are zero point one zero carats each. Giving the ring a total of one point two zero carats.” She uses a pointer to indicate to each diamond as she speaks. Then she picks up the wedding band. “The two outer bands are linked with alternating diamonds of zero point two zero and zero point one zero. There are seven of the larger diamonds and six of the smaller ones.” She turns the ring over to show the underside is solid. “The diamonds total two carats.” She places them on the cushion and slides it forward, along with a magnifying lens. “Take a look. It’s a beautifully delicate piece.”

I study both of the rings carefully and can imagine them on Molly’s finger. Before I blurted out my proposal, I probably should have gotten the ring. “I think my fiancée will love these. They’re delicate like the jewelry she already wears.”

Stephanie’s eyes sparkle as her eyebrows shoot up. “You’ve already proposed?”

“Yeah. I blurted it out without being prepared.”

She chuckles. “You’d be surprised how often that happens.” Well, that makes me feel marginally better. “Do you know her size?”

I pull the string out of my pocket. When she was sleeping last night, I tied a piece of string around her finger to make sure I bought the correct size. “Will this work?”

Stephanie picks it up. “I think so. Let’s see what we’ve got.” She grabs a cylindrical measuring tool and slides the string carefully down the shaft until it can’t go any further. “I’d say we’re looking at a five point five.” She searches through a set of bands until she comes to the one she’s looking for. “Does this feel about right?”

I slide it on my pinkie. “Yeah, I’d say so. She’s slender and has long, slim fingers.” She smiles and nods at me. “Do you have her size in stock?”

“Let me check.” She locks the display set back inside the cabinet. “I’ll be back in a moment.” Then she disappears through a doorway.

I tuck my hands in my pockets and rock back on my heels. Molly didn’t hesitate to say yes when I asked her to marry me. And yes, it’s quick, but it feels right. She’s perfect for me and fits in seamlessly with my family. Even though the proposal slipped out, I had no thoughts about rescinding it.

Stephanie returns with a bright smile and two small ring boxes. “You’re in luck! We only have a couple of sets in stock and her size was one of them.” She places them on the counter and opens each box. “I think it was meant to be.”

“I think so, too. Can I take them with me today?” I dig my wallet out of my back pocket, ready to pay.

“Certainly, Max. If you would like to come over to the checkout, we can get that sorted.”

I pay for the rings and Stephanie tucks them into a small gift bag, wishing me congratulations. Choosing the ring didn’t take long. I check my watch. I may still have time to grab some flowers.

When I arrive atBlooms and Balloons, the best florist in the city, the woman is locking up. “Damn.” I mutter, then spin on my heel.

“Excuse me. Were you wanting some flowers?” the woman calls.

I spin back around to face her. “Yeah. But that’s okay, I’m too late.”

“You’re not actually. I was sneaking out a little early because we were quiet. If you’re happy to select a pre-made arrangement, I’d be happy to unlock the store for you.” She turns back toward the door with her key in hand.

I quickly step closer. “I’d certainly appreciate it. I hope to propose properly to my fiancée tonight.”

“Oh. How sweet. Well, I’m definitely happy to unlock the store and help you out. I’ll even make a fresh arrangement for you.” She opens the door and ushers me inside, turning on the light as she goes. The fragrance as I enter the store is beautiful.

“My name’s Cassia.” She wraps an apron around her waist. “What type of arrangement were you thinking of?”

I’m blank. “Hi, Cassia. My name is Max. I hadn’t thought about it. I was just gonna grab a bunch of flowers.” I shrug.

She chuckles. “Fair enough. Do you know her favorite flower?”

I grimace and shake my head. Then it dawns on me. “She uses rose-scented body wash. I guess she probably likes roses.”See, I’m working this out.

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