Will stepped back. "I need to make a call. Are you cool by yourself for a minute?"
I nodded, feeling something within me break. "Sure."
He left, not offering even a backward glance.
I looked down at my stomach, tears stinging the backs of my eyes.
Don’t worry, baby. I want you.
10
Will
"Can I help you?" the ancient woman in the hospital gift store asked.
"Um, maybe?"
She grinned, tucking a chunk of electric blue hair behind her ear. "What's the occasion? Birth, cancer-free diagnosis?"
"How did you know it's a celebration?"
She laughed. "I've worked here fifty years. You learn to pick the body language."
"Birth. Or, more precisely, impending birth."
"And you want to get her something special?"
I nodded. "I… she's the love of my life. I've never felt this way about anyone before." I held up the congratulations teddy bear. "This doesn't seem special enough."
"Come this way."
She stepped behind the counter, bending to unlock a drawer and pull out a small tray from the secure case. She placed it on the counter, sliding the lid off.
"Rings and necklaces. We only carry a small number because not many people buy them, but I figure we carry some for moments such as this one."
She tapped the drawer. "I work with a local jeweller. They're all certified and—"
"That one." I reached over, running my thumb over the engagement ring.
"Good choice," she said with approval. "Rose gold, with sapphire and diamonds. The geometric cut is unusual but I can give you the name of the jeweller, she's local and can help with designing a matching wedding band."
"That'd be perfect, thanks."
Heart hammering in my chest, I pulled out my phone, snapped a picture of the ring and popped it into family chat.
DaddyDogg
Boys, speak now or forever hold your peace. I'm marrying Karen.
SamthePup
Yay!
Ash
About time.
JayWood
