Page 98 of The Renter

“No, don’t even think about it,” I say, laughing but serious. The thought of getting engaged is too much, too soon. I can’t shake the feeling of being in a dream. Adam’s generosity continues to be mind-boggling.

“Dani, are you not enjoying this?” Adam asks, noticing my distant look.

“I’m overwhelmed.”

Sensing the mood, the jeweler ushers us to a plush seating area. “First, a drink,” he says cheerfully. “Champagne for the lady?”

“That sounds great.” I’m thankful for the distraction.

“And a whiskey with one ice cube for you, sir?” Adam nods.

“You come here a lot?” The guy knows his drink order, after all.

He gives a cocky shrug.Of course he does.

The jeweler turns to me. “So, Dani, I hear you’re independent, a business owner. I’m thinking you’re more of a gold girl?”

“I wouldn’t know. I don’t own any real jewelry.”

He looks shocked. “Adam, what is she saying?” The jeweler chides. “You need the essentials then: diamond studs, a pearl necklace, tennis bracelet, stacking rings, a watch.” He glares at Adam again. “You’ve been taking her out in costume jewelry?”

I laugh at how appalled he is, and he returns with a tray of stunning pieces, but it’s a ring that catches my eye. It’s not an engagement ring, but it’s certainly special. A large diamond dangles from a diamond-studded band—it’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen.

Adam leans in. “You like that one.”

“Don’t get any ideas.” I smirk, but inside, I’m awestruck. The ring stirs something in me, a vision of a life with Adamthat suddenly feels real and scary. My mind begins imagining wearing it, the symbol it would represent. The idea of being engaged to Adam, which had terrified me moments ago, now seems like something I could want, something I could accept.But it’s too fucking soon!I sip my champagne, trying to silence my thoughts.

Adam watches me, a knowing smile on his face, before saying, “I think he’s right. You need the essentials.”

“Maybe just the essentials for now.”

“What about the ring?” Adam asks.

The jeweler interrupts before I can say anything. “This statement piece has a three-carat stone that is off the charts in every way.”

“Not … yet, for the ring.” I wink at Adam.

“Don’t give me a heart attack,” the jeweler says. “If you two are whispering about engagement rings, we’re not considering anything under five carats.” His tone is like a scold. “This is a ring she would wear to a gala or dinner with the girls.”

I sip my champagne, hiding my amusement and the flood of emotions coming to the surface.

After seeing the jeweler’s recommendations for the essentials, we leave the store with a few pieces. I have no idea how much money he spent on me, but I have a strong suspicion it’s more than my college education.

Life with Adam is surreal. I wish I could enjoy this moment more. It’s not that I don’t want the things he bought me … I don’t know. I can’t place exactly why I’m not more ecstatic about the last hour.If we were to get engaged… No! You’re not thinking about getting engaged to him.

84

Saturday, August 27th

The drive to Wisconsin feels different this time. It’s the end of my lease. The end of the most unexpected summer of my life and the beginning of so much more. I’m about to meet Dani’s parents, and I’m happy we’re taking this significant step in our relationship. As we cruise along the highway, I glance over at Dani, admiring how the diamond earrings catch the light.

“I like these studs,” I say, tucking a strand of her hair behind her ear. She hasn’t taken them off since she got them and I love that she’s wearing something I gave her every day.

“These are more like craters.” She jokes, her laughter filling the car.

“They look great on you. So, how’s it feel being almost twenty-six?”

“Twenty-five was a fucking wild ride.” She laughs. “Twenty-six is already off to a great start. Better clothes, a better place.” She leans over, placing a kiss on my cheek. “And the best boyfriend ever.” She giggles.