Page 5 of Christmas Ever After

“What happens if you find a miracle and can return to football? Will you leave me again?”

He shook his head. “I’d like to think I’ve learned from my mistakes. Even if I could play again I’d still stay here. It took me a long time to realize what was important. I only hope its not too late.”

She pulled the ring out of the box. “I won’t wear this now. I want you to hold on to it and if you’re still here in a year ask me again.” She placed the ring back inside and closed the lid, then handed it back to him.

“I can do that. I’ll do it as many Christmases as it takes until you say yes. I never stopped loving you.”

“I love you too,” she said softy. “But sometimes love isn’t enough.”

“I know,” he agreed. “But it will be for us. I plan on spending every Christmas with you until we finally find our happy ending.”

Christmas ever after…it had a nice ring to it. She smiled. “I look forward to your efforts.” He leaned over the counter and pressed his lips to hers. This was not how she expected her day to go, but it was much better. They might not find their happy ending, but they were at least happy for now.