Ashley and I were putting up the Christmas decorations in Ashley’s apartment. She put something behind her hands. Ashley went towards me. “Pick a hand,” Ashley said with a smile.

“Alright, left,” I replied.

“Great choice,” began Ashley as she revealed a small black box. I was going to give it to you on Christmas, but I wanted to give you one of your presents early. I hope you like it, babe. I opened the box and saw a beautiful sapphire ring.

“I love it, Ash,” I stated with a smile. It’s really beautiful, but is this an engagement ring?

“No, we’re not ready for that step yet,” responded Ashley with a chuckle. Maybe a couple more years when we’re done with school we’ll talk about a wedding. It’s a promise ring. I thought about you when I first saw it with Kyla since it brought out the blue in your eyes. A smile formed on my lips. Ashley put the promise ring on my left ring finger. I, Ashley Christine Davies promise to always love you, Spencer Marie Carlin. I promise to always be faithful to you, always protect you, and always take care of you.

I hugged Ashley. “Thank you,” I said happily. This is the most romantic thing ever.

“I try,” replied Ashley. I love you.

“I love you, too,” I stated.

“You’re probably wondering what I have in my right hand, right?” asked Ashley.

“Yep,” I answered. Ashley revealed mistletoe and put it over her head. I kissed Ashley sweetly on her lips. Ashley intensified the kiss. I stopped the kiss. So the mistletoe routine never gets old for you?

“Nope, not really,” responded Ashley. I was original about it this time though.

“True,” I agreed. I noticed a Christmas ornament in the box and picked it up. You made this?

“Yes, a long time ago,” laughed Ashley. It was in the second grade. It was the only thing that Christine ever kept of things that I made for her.

“I’m sorry to hear that,” I sighed. I love the ornament. It’s really cute.

“Don’t worry about it,” said Ashley. Kyla and I are better off without her anyway. You love the ornament? Ashley carved my initials under her initials. Now it’s our Christmas ornament. I always knew there was something this ornament needed back then.