Chapter 197. Trapped
One Year Ago, Earth
Standing in the crowded jewelry store, Reo could clearly see his image in the gleaming display case glass. Gold, silver, and gems of all hues and forms sparkled in rows of rings under bright lights.
He wasn’t used to jewelry, and the vast collection overwhelmed him. His face wrinkled in frustration as he ran a hand through his black hair. He became even more uneasy as he listened to the clink of glass and the gentle hum of conversation.
A saleswoman came over with a kind but polished smile. Standing behind the counter, she said in a friendly tone, "Can I help you, sir?"
Reo gave her a quick glance while he scratched the back of his head and spoke uncertainly. "Yes... I need a ring. For my girlfriend."
Her eyes softened, catching the nervous edge in his tone. "For a proposal?" she asked gently, getting right to the point.
His crimson eyes gleamed as he chuckled with a mixture of nervousness and laughter. "Yes, precisely. I’d like to propose her. Make it perfect; the price is not important.
With a nod, the salesperson took a tray lined with velvet from the shelf. With ease, she looked at the rings, then stopped and raised a tiny ring box. She said, "This might be what you’re looking for," and opened it to show a plain platinum ring with a subtle, elegant sparkle.
With a raised eyebrow, he picked up the box and rotated the ring in the light. "This? It’s so... simple. I want something that’ll blow her away."
Unbothered, she smiled. "Sir, this is among our best pieces. Simple yet timeless, made from rare platinum. Perfect for a very special person."
Still skeptical, Reo scowled as he examined the ring’s soft glow. "Are you sure she’ll love it? It’s not really fancy. "
The salesperson leaned over. "Is she really in love with you?"