The Kings: A Band's Tale

Liverpool Things [20]

It had been a week since the fishing trip, a much-needed break for Uno Winter, Denise Star, and their band, The Kings. Now back on tour, they found themselves in Liverpool, where the streets buzzed with energy and the locals showed plenty of enthusiasm for the band's visit. Uno and Denise, strolling hand-in-hand, decided to take a break from their packed schedule and explore a bit.

Both dressed in matching navy-blue suits with high-cut blue Converse, they were the picture of unity. Their jackets and ties were perfectly coordinated, while a small silver chain hung from Denise's pocket, adding a bit of flair to her look.

As they walked, they passed by a jewelry store with an elegant display of rings, each gleaming under soft lights. Denise tugged at Uno's arm, a mischievous grin on her face.

"Hey, Uno, look," she said, nodding toward the display case. "Feel like doing some window shopping?"

Uno smirked, playfully arching an eyebrow. "Why just window shopping?"

With a chuckle, Denise pulled him inside. The store was cozy yet luxurious, with rows of jewelry laid out under glass counters. Uno's eyes roamed the selection, and he couldn't help but pause in front of a section of promise rings and engagement rings. He glanced at Denise, who seemed equally drawn to the idea.

Without much discussion, they each picked a promise ring-a small, personal gesture to show their commitment-and an engagement ring, for a day that they both knew would eventually come.

"Think we're getting ahead of ourselves?" Uno teased, slipping the promise ring onto his finger to check the fit.

"Nah," Denise replied, holding her own up to the light. "Just being prepared. Besides, you'll never know when you might want to officially pop the question."

Before Uno could respond, the jeweler, an older gentleman with kind eyes, approached them. His gaze lit up as he recognized the two.

"Oh, my word, Mr. Winter! I'm a huge fan of The Kings!" he exclaimed, a mixture of awe and excitement in his tone. "Can't believe I'm meeting the lead singer himself! I was at your concert here last time you toured, and... well, let's just say your voice is something truly special."

Uno cracked a warm smile, nodding appreciatively. "Thank you, sir. It's always humbling to meet fans who've been there from the start."

The jeweler's face softened. "I've read about what some people have been saying... trying to tarnish your reputation. I'm truly sorry to hear that-know that many of us out here still support you."

Uno's smile grew a little wider. "Means a lot to hear that, really. Thanks for saying so."

The jeweler nodded thoughtfully, then brightened. "Now, for the rings, would you like a fifty percent discount as a little thank-you from me, or do you want to go for the full price?"

Uno chuckled, glancing at Denise before shaking his head. "Appreciate the offer, but I'll take it in full. Still got a bit of money in my bank account, y'know?"

Denise nudged him playfully, grinning. "A 'bit,' huh? That's one way to put it."

The jeweler laughed, and as he was about to wrap up their purchase, he hesitated. "Actually, would you mind signing something for me? I've got a copy of *The Rise of The Kings* right here."

"Of course," Uno said with a nod, reaching for a pen. The jeweler pulled out a pristine copy of the album, and Uno signed the cover with a quick flourish. "Here you go. And thanks again-for everything."

They left the store, each now with a promise ring on their fingers and the engagement rings safely tucked away for when the moment would come. As they strolled back toward their hotel, Denise leaned close.