It was my boyfriend’s sister’s birthday, March 10, 1986. Her name is Milagros, or Milly for short. I was invited over for a small party for her. When I arrived, my boyfriend, Franco, whisked me away into his room. He said he needed help wrapping a small gift that he got for Milly. Franco wanted to surpise her and I was more than glad to help. Franco left the room and went back to the party. I turned around and found the small, plastic shopping bag on his bed. I reached over and opened it. I pulled out a small jewelry box and my curiosity got the best of me. I decided to sneak a peek at what Franco had gotten for his sister, Milly. I slowly opened the lid all the way and gasped at what I saw! It was the engagement ring that we had seen weeks before! Suddenly my find flashed back to that day of Christmas shopping at the Harlem and Irving Plaza, strolling by a jewelry shop and walking inside to browse. Fell in love with a tiny, yet beautiful ring set. We both just loved it. We finished our shopping and I had forgotten about the rings. By then, Franco had tip-toed back into the room. He tapped my shoulder and I turned around, still holding the ring box. Franco looked right at me and with a trembling voice and tearful eyes, asked, "I love you, would you please be my wife?" He then hugged me so quickly and tightly I could hardly breathe! I choked up and whispered, "Yes!" Before I knew it, my hand clasped my mouth in total shock, and excitement. I planted endless pecks all over my handsome fiance’s face while wiping both our tears. We hugged for what seemed like an eternity. We finally returned to the party and were greeted with smiling faces that filled the room. We were showered with hugs and kisses and "congratulations!" all around. I clearly remember showing everyone the ring on my finger. My vision was so blurred from the tears that kept filling my eyes. I’ll never forget that moment.
Maribel R. Quinones,
Chicago, IL
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