16
Ember’s Secret
The dazzling amethyst and diamond ring had been on her mother’s finger “twenty-four-seven” for the last three months, but when she became sick, Talesa put away all her jewelry and, sadly, never put it on again. I wonder what it’s doing in the back of the drawer, thought Ember. I could have completely missed it!
Ember held the ring up to the light, and memories of the Day of the Ring and the Ceremony sprang to the surface. She was instantly in another place and time, and she felt infused with love . . .
“Mom . . . I’m so excited you’re getting this award. So proud, too!”
“Thanks, Ember.” She beamed her characteristic smile. “I have to go up on stage now. See you right after in the reception room.”
Ember had smoothed her deep blue evening dress as she made her way to
