Her body trembled as she nodded. Even Garrett's hand shook as he tried to place the ring on her finger. She looked at it, relishing the old, yet very much-loved ring.
Garrett said, almost apologetic, "It was my mother's ring. She gave it to me years ago. But it wasn't right…"
"It's beautiful," Caitlin said, interrupting Garrett. She took a deep breath as words jumbled in her head. "This ring is more than gold and a diamond. It's love, faith, tenderness, and understanding. Your parents were married many years, and this ring is full of their hopes and dreams. Now we'll fill it with ours, which will further bless our marriage. I will forever treasure this gift you share with me."
Garrett's warm and intoxicating kiss sang through her veins. She knew this was the beginning of a long, healthy and loving relationship. One she would forever hold onto, making each day better. When Caitlin pulled away she saw tears on Garrett's cheeks. She wiped them away.
"Men don't cry," he said.
"Yes they do. Granddaddy cried the day Emmaline died. He did it in private, but I heard him." Caitlin looked deep into Garrett's eyes. "Am I dreaming?"
"If you are then we're sharing the same dream." Garrett exhaled. "I rehearsed all day, trying to keep the afternoon's events from my mind. What if you didn't come back to me?" She caressed his cheek and let the tears fall. "When I saw you walk through the door, I knew I never wanted us to be apart. The words I needed to ask you disappeared. That letter saved me." He paused as if searching for words. "I wanted to speak those words to you but knew…"
Her fingers rested on his lips. "This is another gift for me to treasure. Something tangible so when I believe I'm dreaming, I can read it and know this is happening." He kissed her hand and said, "I thought you would say no or let's wait."
Caitlin chuckled as she shook her head. "I have loved you since I was 16. Why do you think I wear this bracelet?" She stared deep into his eyes. "Promise me we'll have a marriage like my grandparents and your parents. I want a marriage full of love, respect, and understanding."
"I don't want it any other way." They kissed again with more fervor, but Garrett pulled away. They relaxed on the couch listening to Ella Fitzgerald. Caitlin laid her head on his chest, listening to his rapid heartbeat. She suppressed a giggle, knowing her heart was beating as fast if not faster. No shadows crossed her heart tonight as she admired the diamond ring. She felt more beautiful than a sunset, grander than a mountain, and this diamond shone brighter than any sun ever had. It shone bright because of the love. Caitlin knew over time this ring would shine more as their love for each other grew.