Elias and I made our way back to the car, our hands intertwined, shopping bags swinging from our free arms. The day had been a dream, our first real date, filled with laughter at the movies, his insistent spoiling at the shops, and that magical moment at Kingsley & Co. Jewelers where we'd exchanged matching rings.
I couldn't stop glancing at the platinum band on my finger, the etched wolf motifs catching the light, a tangible symbol of our bond and his unwavering love.
My heart felt full to bursting, the earlier emotional tears now replaced by a giddy joy that made me lean into him every few steps.
"Elias, today was... perfect," I said, squeezing his hand as we navigated the crowded sidewalk, holiday shoppers bustling around us with their own bags and chatter. The air smelled of
