Georgia slipped the band of gold around my finger, looked into my eyes and completed her vows. We were husband and wife. A week later, I sat in my chair, mindlessly watching television. I twirled the unfamiliar band of gold circling my ring finger. It was the first piece of jewelry I’d ever worn. It made me feel different. My life took a major change. I no longer thought of me. I thought of “us.” I had a wife and was proud to be a husband. The band of gold proved it. From that day forward, people would see it and know I was committed to another. It became a part of me. Whenever I sat idle, my right hand would reach to play with it. Other times, my left thumb would polish it—savoring my symbol of love.
******************
“Michael?” Georgia asked?
I looked across our dining room table at her. Her brown eyes sparkled. “What, Hun?”
“I’m pregnant.” She smiled.
“You are? Are you sure?” I rose from my chair. “Do you feel OK? Do you need anything?” I had an expectant mother to take care of.
The doctor confirmed it today. And yes, I am OK. Now sit and finish your dinner.”
“But?” I stammered. “This calls for a toast. I’ll get that bottle of champagne.”
I rushed from the table.
“Michael!” she reached for my hand. She rested her other hand on her stomach.
“I can’t. The baby! Remember?”
I stared at her and frowned. “Why…” I paused. “Oh right! The baby! I forgot—no drinking.”
“Relax. I’m OK. Sit and finish your dinner.”
We sat and ate. Afterward, I reached across the table and held her left hand in mine. I looked into those sparkling brown eyes. “Thank you, Hun. Thank you for wanting to be the mother of our children. Your parents will be so excited.” I looked down at the table where I still held her hand. The flickering candle reflected off our bands of gold. “I love you, future Mama.” I lifted her hand and kissed her ring.
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