Finding Love

CHAPTER 19

Ruth's Birthday

Ruth smiled as she got out of bed. The last three months had been more than amazing. She was completely in love with Michael Cambridge. Their relationship had grown more profound and deeper over the past few months. Ruth never realized she could be this happy. She loved how they could share their relationship with Christ and compassion for others. Today, was extra special because she was celebrating her 32th birthday. When she was about to get dressed for work her phone rang. Her smile grew wider when she saw the message from Michael.

"Happy Birthday my love. I pray you to get to enjoy many more birthdays with me of course. I can't wait for us to celebrate your birthday. I love you. Enjoy your day!" Michael texted. Ruth  grinned and texted "I love you too." She could not believe how much they freely declared their love for each other. Simple things like flowers, poems, jokes, and checkups on her made their love more beautiful and stronger. A soft knock at her door brought her out of her thoughts. When she opened the door David ran into her arms and Ruth hugged him energetically. "Happy Birthday Auntie Ruth," David jumped up and down. Ruth kissed him on the cheeks, "Thank you, honey."  Ruth was feeling so much love on her special day.

After arriving at work the staff celebrated with her. Her boss Spencer and many staff members brought out the cake and cider to toast her on her birthday. Ruth could not believe all the special attention she was getting on this day.  She hated being the center of attention. However, she was grateful to God for the kindness that they were showing to her. She was anticipating her evening with Michael.

The Dinner Date

Michael was a nervous wreck all day as he made plans for his evening with Ruth. He pulled out the diamond engagement ring engraved with "I love you." At the end of the day, he prayed Ruth Dawkins would be his future bride. He placed the ring in the velvet box and drove to get the woman of his dreams. Michael prayed the entire time that this day would make him a happy man. 

Ruth got dressed and wore a gorgeous red dress, cardigan, and accessories. She wore her hair pinned up with a few curls hanging. She looked amazing. Crystal looked at her well pleased knowing that she was going to have a wonderful time. "You look really lovely," Crystal smiled putting the chain on Ruth's neck. "Pretty," David chimed in as he played with his toy truck. "Awe. thank you, honey," Ruth said giving David a huge kiss on his forehead. When the doorbell chimed both Crystal and David went to open the door and welcome Michael. "Uncle Michael," David said running into his arms. Michael scooped him up and hugged him. He had developed a soft spot for the little boy. "Hey buddy," Michael said. "Crystal," Michael continued with a smile.

He looked up in awe at Ruth who did not disappoint him at all. She was stunning, "Wow!" he said flabbergasted by her beauty. "You look so beautiful," he stated not being able to take his eyes off her. He took her hands and headed out to enjoy a memorable night. 

Ruth enjoyed the time she was spending with Michael. He was not as talkative as she anticipated but enjoyed the candlelight dinner and the walk under the stars. She started to wonder if he was hiding something but what could it be? Ruth ignored her intuition and simply tried to enjoy their time together. Michael immediately sensed Ruth was suspicious and he did not need her to figure out what was going on. As they danced he pulled her close. "Are you enjoying your birthday?" he asked. "of course I am," she smiled. "Well, I have another surprise," he announced. What else could top this day? Ruth wondered. Michael saw the curiosity in her eyes and was about to surprise her in more ways than one. 

The Proposal

Ruth walked with Michael oblivious to what was happening. Michael led her blindfolded to a house she had helped him decorate for one of his close friends. Little did she know Michael had purchased the home for her and David. "Okay, I am ready to take this blindfold off," she informed him. Michael laughed at her annoyance. Close family and friends gathered in the living and dining room quietly without a sound. "You can take the blindfold off," he announced hiding in the crowd. "Surprise," everyone cheered. Ruth stepped back shocked at the crowd who stood around her. "Happy Birthday!" they screamed and cheered.

Ruth looked on truly surprised to see her mother,  father-in-law, David, and a few co-workers at the home. But why was she at this house? Crystal steps ahead to answer the question. She passed Ruth the keys to the house. Ruth is dismayed and confused as to what is happening. "This your new home. You were actually decorating your very own house," Crystal explained. Ruth's eyes widened at the realization of what was said. Michael had made her believe this was a friend's house. David stood next to Ruth proudly with his hands in his pocket. 

So much was happening now and Ruth was trying to understand and process it all. "Ruth," Michael stated prompting her to turn around. Suddenly, she gasped seeing him on the floor. "My man," Michael said handing his hands out to David. David placed the velvet box in Michael's hand.

Ruth felt her legs grow limp and her heart pounding realizing what was about to happen next. Michael spoke sincerely from his heart. "Ruth Dawkins you are my everything. One year ago I met you and David. My life was never the same. I fell in love with you and want you as my forever. I am asking you, Ruth to be my wife," he asked. Everyone was quiet as Ruth focused on Michael. She started to shed a few tears and quickly nodded her head. "Yes," she announced teary-eyed. Michael slipped the ring on her finger and they both embraced each other. Everyone cheered and David gave Michael a high five. Michael and Ruth had found love.