And now
She lifts the lid from the cardboard
box, removes the smaller, velvet-
flocked box, slowly, too slowly,
opens it. Oh Hunter, it’s beautiful.
And now
She pulls the ring from its holder,
starts to put it on her right finger.
“No,” I say, taking it gently and
moving it to her left ring finger.
And now
I explain, “It’s a promise ring.
It belongs on this finger. Maybe
someday we’ll exchange it for
an engagement ring.” Wow.
And now
She moves into my arms. Kisses
a long thank-you. I love it, she says.
And I love you. And, despite my
cell going off again, she proves it.
WHEN SHE GOES TO SHOWER
I check my voice mail. No Leah,
thank God. But there are two
from Mom. Your Grandpa Bill
is flying up from L.A. He gets in
at eleven. Can you pick him up?
Call me back to let me know.
I look at the clock. Ten fifteen.
I let Mom know it’s not a problem.
Then I call Kristina to give her an