Something Blue, Someone New

For her future husband? His heart inexplicably unsettled at the thought of Sarah spending her life with someone else, sharing days and nights, growing old together. An indescribable discomfort welled up in his chest.

How could someone who once loved him so deeply marry another? Her avoiding him now and sending Eleanor to retrieve it was clever. He had to admit, this move had truly disturbed his thoughts.

"Mr. Crawford?"

"Tell Sarah for me."

"I never take back things I've given away."

"Of course, if she insists, she's welcome to come discuss it in person."

Henry turned to leave after speaking.

But Eleanor quickly called after him.

"Mr. Crawford, wait, I'll get Sarah to talk to you right now."

What a joke. Sarah was about to enter marriage. How could this ring, carrying such special meaning, remain in another's hands? Sarah had repeatedly urged her to retrieve the ring before the wedding. She wanted to personally put it on her husband's finger at the ceremony.

Over the years, Eleanor's disgust for Henry had grown daily. Yet Sarah had been so blindly devoted, it was almost unreasonable. Wasting her youth waiting, only to be heartlessly abandoned. Every time Eleanor thought about it, she wanted to slap Henry twice.

Fortunately, she finally saw reality and found a better destination. Eleanor was genuinely happy for her friend. This time, she must fulfill her mission.

When I received Eleanor's call, the car was almost at the Barnes'.

"Eleanor, what's wrong?"

"Sarah, I went to ask Henry for the ring as you said."

"But he won't give it to me, and says if you insist, you must come talk to him yourself."

I unconsciously glanced at William beside me, feeling somewhat nervous. We were still unfamiliar with each other. Though he appeared gentle and courteous, his presence was impossible to ignore. Earlier in the car, he took a work call, switching effortlessly between three languages, giving orders decisively. That natural air of authority made me feel childish and naive.

I'm not usually a quiet person, but around William, I became inexplicably reserved. Before I could respond to Eleanor, Henry's voice came through the phone.

"Sarah, do you truly want the ring back, or do you have other motives?"

I was stunned, then laughed bitterly.

"If you're trying to ruin my and Charlotte's engagement ceremony, don't waste your effort."

"If you want the ring, come get it the same way you gave it to me."

"After all, such a precious item shouldn't be handled through others."

I took a deep breath, trying to keep my voice calm.

"Eleanor is my closest friend, just give it to her."

"I'll take all responsibility."

Henry chuckled, "Sarah, must I be more explicit?"

"Come get it back the same way you gave it to me."

The call abruptly ended.

I felt angry and embarrassed, my cheeks flushing red. How had I given him that ring?

It was on my graduation day. I gathered my courage and kissed him under the campus tree. It was my first time initiating a kiss. He seemed surprised but didn't push me away.

In that moment, I thought I'd finally found the right timing. Trembling, I took the ring from my pocket and gently placed it in his palm. I told him the ring's meaning. After a moment of silence, he accepted it.