I Will Always Be Loved

"I Will Always Be Loved"

By
Audra Ralls

         My divorce was not an ugly affair.  There was no bitter custody battle, no feuding over material objects, no pointing fingers of blame.  It was merely a parting of lives; a time that was long overdue.  Though it wasn’t a Lifetime movie event, it brought feelings of sadness, loneliness, and failure.

         Valentine’s Day has never been a celebrated holiday in my life.  My birthday falls five days prior.  Therefore, I get the “combined” holiday treatment.  So, I was a bit shocked when I arrived home to find a Valentine setting.  My mother not so slyly sneaked out the back door mouthing the word “enjoy.”

         My heart melted as I realized “Come Rain or Come Shine” was playing in the background.  B.B. King has undoubtedly set the tone for many romantic evenings.  I practically waltzed to the beautifully decorated table.  Rose petals of pink and white were scattered among heart-shaped votive candles.  Standing before me was the most handsome man.  I had never seen him with such detail paid to his appearance.  His shining eyes reminded me of how truly blessed I was.

         Peanut butter sandwiches and cheetos were placed on the china plates.  I couldn’t have been happier for any attempt at cooking would have been a disaster, and these were our favorites.  The love of my life walked toward me with a box and knelt down.

         Questioningly, I opened it. It was a perfect, simple diamond ring.  Picking it up gingerly I saw inscribed inside was “You are always loved.”

         “I missed seeing a ring on your finger.  I wanted you to know you are always loved.  Grandma helped me pay for it,” said my perfect six-year-old son with the genuineness that a mother will carry with her always.

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(This is a true story.  It was originally written for weekend flash.  The prompt was to write a romance under 300 words)