One day at a time. (Part 2 of the story of Joanne and Paul. Now complete!)

Chapter 15 - 8th February 2002

Paul and Joanne were enjoying a rare day for sight seeing in Paris. People watched them but they were uninterrupted as they walked hand in hand down the street. Joanne found it strange he wasn't mobbed even though it was common knowledge that he ws performing the second of three concerts in Paris that night.

"Sometimes people don't always believe I'm really the real Paul." he chuckled as they walked passed rows of very expensive shops. "I like it that way too!"

They walked on more then Paul stopped outside a jewellers. Joanne read the sign above the shop.

"Casty Jewellers?"

Paul nodded. "Probably the most exclusive French jewellers near the Place Vendôme here in Paris. Only the best for you my love."

"What do you mean?"

"I thought we could choose you an engagement ring together." He looked at her anxiously, "If you want to that is."

Joanne looked at his worried face. "I'd love to Paul. But it looks a very very expensive shop!"

He raised his eyebrows at her comment then took her hand. "Get inside woman. The sooner you have my ring on your finger the better!"

They entered the shop. A man dressed in a crisp suit walked to Paul and shook his hand.

"Ah Mr McCartney sir. It is an honour to have you and your lovely lady in our shop. My name is Jean - Paul and I will be at your service today." He gestured to another assisstant who immediately locked the door and pulled the blinds. "As requested, you're total privacy is guaranteed Mr McCartney. All our staff are very discrete."

Paul nodded. He and Joanne were led to a table with two chairs on one side. Paul waited for Joanne to sit before sitting next to her. Jean-Paul lookedat them both.

"Could I get you some refreshments?" he asked, "Coffee, Tea, Champagne?"

Refreshments served. Jean-Paul's attention focussed on the reason for their visit.

"So Mr McCartney, you wish to make a purchase today? A gift for this lovely lady perhaps? How can we at Casty Jewellers serve you?"

"We would like to look at engagement rings please."

Jean-Paul smiled at Joanne. "My congratulations Mr McCartney, I'm assuming that this is the lucky lady?"

Paul nodded.

"So madam, what kind of ring do you have in mind? A fine solitaire diamond? Coloured stones?"

Joanne looked at Paul. "What do you fancy Jo love? It's up to you."

"I like traditional designs rather than contemporary," she said softly, "Nothing too big. I prefer something tasteful. I do like a simple flower cluster design or three stones in a row."

Jean- Paul scuttled off to see what he could tempt Joanne with. Paul squeezed her hand and smiled at her. "Is this OK love? I mean, you are comfortable with the whole thing?"

Joanne looked at him. He looked tired she noticed. She gave him a smile in return. "It's lovely," she looked around the shop, "A little grander than what I'm used to, but lovely. Thank you Paul. Seriously. Thank you for everything."

He leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. "You don't need to thank me sweetheart. Just having you by my side is all the thanks I need."

Jean - Paul returned carrying three trays of rings. He placed them on the table. Joanne looked at each tray carefully.

"Not those," she said pointing to one tray, "They're far too modern for my taste." She paused and looked again. "That's beautiful!" She pointed to a flower cluster sparkling under the lights.