Liam stretched out on the couch and waited for Carmen to return. He was still nervous about giving her jewelry, but he hoped she liked it.
Standing in front of him, she held out a neatly wrapped package. He held out hers. “You first,” he said.
“Let’s do it at the same time.”
“Okay.”
They swapped presents and she ripped into the paper while he peeled it away.
“Jeez, are you a grandma looking to save the paper? Tear into it,” she goaded him. She didn’t wait for him to catch up, however. She flipped the top off the box and then ooohhed over the necklace.
He stopped unwrapping to watch her face.
“It’s beautiful, Liam.” She traced her fingers over the design. “What is it?”
“It’s a Claddagh. The crown represents loyalty, the hands, friendship, and the heart, love.” He took it from the bo
