Sweet Cherries

Chapter 31

After a months later
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After everything that had happened, especially with Alia and Micah as a couple, they decided to hold off on getting married for now. They both felt it was best to wait, particularly because Alia was expecting a baby. Although they were ready to take the next step, they didn't want to rush into marriage. Instead, they chose to focus on preparing for their new arrival.

Micah POV

I had been planning to propose to Alia before she gave birth, as it felt like the perfect moment for us. I hadn't proposed to her since we became a couple, and now that Alia was in her last month of pregnancy, every day was filled with anticipation. We didn't know exactly when she would go into labor, and the uncertainty made me want to cherish every moment we had together before the baby arrived.

I was incredibly happy, especially knowing that soon I would be able to meet our child. The thought of holding our baby for the first time filled me with joy. My original plan was to propose at the beach, a serene and beautiful place that held special memories for both of us. I had already spoken with our friends, asking for their help in organizing the proposal to make it unforgettable for Alia.

Early in the morning, I decided to leave Alia's condo without waking her up. I knew she was exhausted, especially after her visit to the shop yesterday. She had expressed how much she missed being there, and even though I suggested she take a break and not go, she insisted. I was relieved that Shanian and Lieutenant Mark's wife were there to keep her company.

By the way, Alia and I hadn't moved in together yet. I wanted to build a house for us, a space where we could start our new life as a family. Our house was already under construction, and in just a few months, we would be able to move in. I found myself spending more time at Alia's condo, especially with her due date approaching. Each day felt like a countdown to a new chapter in our lives.

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After leaving the condo, I headed straight to the jewelry store where I had previously purchased a promise ring for Alia. It felt fitting to return to the same place for something as important as an engagement ring. It didn't take long before I arrived, so I parked my car and walked into the shop with a mix of excitement and nervousness.

As soon as I entered, I was greeted by one of the salespeople. "Hi, Ma'am Micah! Good morning po!" she said with a bright smile. It was nice to be recognized, as I had made several purchases there before. "Hi, good morning!" I replied, returning her smile and nodding at the other staff members working around the shop.

"I'll take a guess, Ma'am. You're going to propose, aren't you?" one of the employees chimed in, raising her eyebrows playfully as if teasing me. I had become friends with them during my visits, so their banter felt familiar. "Naks, galing mo manghula ah! Yes, I want to propose to my future wife," I said, feeling a rush of excitement at the thought.

"Yieeee, nakakakilig naman!" another employee exclaimed, giving a playful nudge to her coworker beside her. Their enthusiasm made me smile even wider. Just then, the manager stepped in with a lighthearted reprimand. "Hey, you guys, get back to work!" she said, but I could see the smile on her face as well. I chuckled at the friendly atmosphere; it felt like a little celebration in the shop.

"Hi, Ms. Luna! Ano pong ring ang gusto n'yo?" the manager asked with a beaming smile as she approached me. We moved together to the display where the exquisite rings were showcased.

She began recommending various beautiful designs, each more stunning than the last. However, one ring caught my eye more than the others. It was absolutely breathtaking. "Ito po ang pinaka mamahalin na singsing," the manager explained, pointing to the ring. "May maliliit po kasing diamond na nakapaligid dito," she added, showcasing the delicate craftsmanship that surrounded the center stone.