I’ve already dropped to one knee and asked the question, but I haven’t given her a ring.
His grin widens. “I happen to know a great town crier.”
“I like the way you think. I’ll text you later.”
After Kent leaves, I rush through my morning chores. Bluebonnet and I aren’t getting our marriage license until tomorrow, but I have shopping to do. And before I step into a jewelry store, I need a shower. Desperately.
* * *
Standing outside the jewelry store,I pace, waiting for Paisley to answer my video chat request.
“Hey.” Her hair is tied up, and behind her is a large stack of boxes. “What’s up?”
“I know you’re busy packing, but I need you for a few minutes.” I pan the camera so she can see where I am. “Is now a good time?”
She sets down a tape gun. “I’ll make time. She won’t want anything big, and she can’t really wear it when she’s working.”
My wheels are turning as I pull open the door. “I’m glad she wants small because while I have some money saved up, it isn’t enough for a big flashy diamond.” I don’t have to say that I’m thinking of the massive rock John gave her.
“She’ll love whatever you give her because you’re taking the time to find out what she wants. You aren’t just giving her something to impress your friends.” Paisley is great at reading between the lines.
“Okay, so I’m going to show you the glass cases, and you tell me when to stop.” I wave at the clerk, who is helping another customer. “So, Paisley, what if I give her a ring and a matching necklace so that she can wear the necklace when she can’t wear the ring?”
Somehow, Paisley’s grin gets wider. “I love that idea.”
I walk along the glass case, keeping the camera focused on the wide selection of rings. They all seem too much—too sparkly, too big. Then one in the back of the case catches my attention. “What about that one? It’s not a traditional diamond ring, but it’s pretty, don’t you think?”
The clerk hurries over as the other customers walk out the door. “This is a fabulous choice for a woman who loves vintage-style rings. Would you like a closer look?”
I glance at the screen, and Paisley bobs her head.
“Please. I have my sister helping me choose. I’m marrying her best friend.”
“How perfect.” The woman unlocks the glass case and lifts out the ring. “The oval stone is a mystic topaz. And I just love the blues in this one. The band is white gold, and you can see the small diamonds incorporated in the detailing.”
“It looks like a colorful flower on a silver vine.” I swallow. The cost is a factor, and even as perfect as this one feels, it might be out of my budget. “How much is it?”
The clerk flips over the tiny tag, and I breathe a sigh of relief.
“What do you think, Paisley? It’s in my budget. Think she’ll like it?” I point at the necklace in the case, a perfect match to the ring. “And there is a necklace like I talked about.”
“Parker, I think she’ll love it. It’s simple, but fun and unique. Great choice.” She glances over her shoulder as kids holler in the background. “I have to run. But do you need anything else?”
“Nope. Thanks.” I end the call and pull out my wallet. “I want the ring and that matching necklace.”
“Wonderful. Let me get them boxed up for you.”
While the clerk is busy, I shoot off a text to Bluebonnet.
Me:Will you meet me on the porch outside the mess hall a few minutes before dinner?
It might be a while before she can check her messages, but once she answers, I can set my plan in motion.
* * *
Standingat the end of the long porch, I breathe in and out, thinking about what I want to say. Boots stomp on the porch behind me, and I whip around. “Mason, hey! Right on time.”
He huffs. “Ran all the way here. Dad said you needed me.”
