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“I did It was supposed to be a surprise But I a”

“Would you stop talking in riddles?” she said, growing cross

“I was going to go ho it all back here I quit my job I have a new job at the hospital here in town”

“You do?” she asked quietly

He sighed “Do you re box and the little box?”

“Yeah,” she said cautiously

He reached into his pocket and pulled out the small box He flipped it open and held it out for her to see “I took it to have it cleaned”

“It’s beautiful,” she said, still not understanding

He dropped to one knee A tear rolled down her cheek and she gasped, covering her mouth with her hand

“I took it to be cleaned so I could give it to you…” he said shyly “When I ask you to marry me”

“Why do you want tothe box from his outstretched hand

He stood up and drew her close to him He kissed her forehead

“Because I want you,” he said

Her face fell

He kissed her nose