Chapter 243: The Velvet box
Rafael had spent weeks designing the ring—something simple yet elegant, something that reminded him of Mara’s strength and softness all at once. He wanted it to be perfect because she was perfect. Even in her flaws. Even in her sorrow. Especially in her courage.
At the mall, he strode into the jewelry store, still smiling like a boy in love. The sales attendant looked up, recognizing him instantly.
"You’re here!" she said with a warm smile, already reaching beneath the glass counter. "I’ve been waiting to show you. It’s ready."
She placed a small velvet box in front of him. Rafael opened it slowly, reverently, and the moment his eyes landed on the ring, his smile deepened.
A round-cut diamond rested in a delicate vine-like band, wrapped in gold and flanked by two small emeralds—her birthstone. Classic, unique, timeless. Just like Mara.
"It’s perfect," he said softly. The saleswoman tilted her head. "She must be really special."
Rafael didn’t hesitate. "She is. Very." Something about the moment caught him off guard.
A young couple walked past him, barely more than teenagers, hands intertwined, sharing a milkshake like the world had narrowed down to just the two of them. The girl tossed her head back in laughter, and the boy looked at her like she hung the stars.
Refael froze.