“Well, I want to give Sally a special Christmas present, but I’m at a loss for ideas.”
Nolan heard Sandy’s chuckle clearly over the line. “A while back I would have said you’re asking the wrong guy. But when I wanted to give Sally a ‘welcome’ gift when we met in person, my niece suggested jewelry. And it went over pretty well, so I’d say it’s a good choice.”
Nolan silently grimaced as jewelry had been on his mind too, but he was afraid it would cause Sally to go running for the hills. He decided to keep that bit of info to himself. “Thanks Sandy, I’ll keep that in mind.”
“Hey, I know a guy in Tupelo. He’s been our family’s jeweler for years. I’ll text you his info.”
“Great. Appreciate it.”
“While I have you, why don’t you plan on coming over for Christmas dinner. We usually eat around three.”
Now Nolan’s brow was breaking out in a sweat. What would Sally have to say about that? “Thanks, Sandy. I’d like that. What can I bring?”
“Oh, don’t worry about that. Our cook puts on a huge spread and all the Patricks will be here. Just bring your appetite.” Sandy laughed again. “And Sally’s Christmas present of course.”
It was Nolan’s turn to laugh. “I’m no fool. See you then, if not before.”
* * *
Nolan pulled onto West Main street in downtown Tupelo, scanning the storefronts for the jeweler Sandy had recommended. As with many downtowns in the south, the street was decorated for Christmas, with festive red and green garland stretching across the street, secured to utility poles, as well as decorations on all the streetlamps. He spotted Reid’s Jewelers ahead on the right, and, as luck would have it, there was space to park in front. He exited the truck and entered the store. As the bell on the door jingled to announce his arrival, a man came from around one of the counters to greet Nolan.
“Welcome. How can I help you?”
Nolan extended a hand. “Hello. I’m Nolan Green. I’m lookin’ for a special gift for a special lady. My friend Sandy Patrick said you could help me out.”
“Ah, yes. I last spoke with Sandy some months ago and helped him secure a Tiffany bracelet for his daughter. Scott Reid.” The jeweler grasped Nolan’s hand and shook it firmly.
“She’s the someone special I’m shopping for now. And she loves jewelry, so, hopefully, you can help me make the right choice.”
“What are you looking to spend?”
Nolan named a price range that wouldn’t cause him to have to take out a second mortgage.
“What did you have in mind? And what type of jewelry does she typically wear?”
Nolan thought for a moment. “Well, usually she wears silver or white gold.”
“That’s a good start. Does she have a favorite color? Or favorite stone that you know of?”
“I’m not sure about that. But I think she looks fabulous in red.”
The jeweler clapped his hands in delight. “Ah, a ruby! Such a brilliant gem! Rubies are said to guarantee health, wisdom, wealth, and success in love. Come with me.”
Nolan followed him to a display set full of pendants in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Mr. Reid removed a tray and Nolan’s eyes were immediately drawn to an oval-shaped ruby surrounded by diamonds in a starburst pattern. The setting appeared to be white gold.
Before he could speak up, the man removed the pendant and handed it to Nolan. “This is one of my favorites. It’s a stunning cut of ruby and the diamonds around it set it off beautifully.”
Nolan whistled in appreciation. “I really do like it. And it will look beautiful around her neck. Can you find me the right chain to hang it on?”
“Sure, no problem. I’ll polish it up and package it in a gift box for you.”
“Thanks so much.” Nolan hesitated for a moment, then forged ahead before he lost his nerve. “One more thing. Do you have a ring to match this?”
Mr. Reid gave Nolan a knowing grin. “I have just the thing.” He walked over to another case and pulled out a gorgeous ring. It was a mirror image of the pendant, but double the carat weight, while also sporting diamonds around the band.
Nolan took a deep breath and decided this would be worth dipping into his savings. “I’ll take it. What size is it?”
“It’s a nine, but we can size it to fit her finger perfectly.”
