Alterworld Book 1-Ruby's Choice

Miss Ruby's Choice

I go back to the kitchen and help Mom pluck the chicken.  I lean over and whisper to Mom, "It is done."
"What is?"  She said aloud.
"Shh... My decision is made."  I whispered.
"Are you sure?"  She asked.
"Yes."  I said.
"What about...".
"The Alterfaeries are willing to help, but I had to give them my decision tonight and there is still one other thing I must do."  I said.
"Oh?  What's that?"  She asked.
"I don't want to talk about it right now.  Think you can get rid of the boys, so we can have another coffee?"  I asked.
She gives me a mischievous grin, as we finish with the chicken.

I am so glad I am with Mom.  I am always happy when I am home, and I can't think of a better place to make a life-altering decision.
"So, I hear you are a natural farmer."  I said.
"I was nervous about it at first.  I did not think I had it in me."  Joey said.
"I'm glad it went well.  Great job, Joey, I am proud of you."  I said and kissed him.
"You are as remarkable as your parents, Miss Ruby."  He said.
"Thank you.  Can we chat after dinner?"  I asked.
"Absolutely.  There is something I want to talk to you about as well."  He said.
"There is?"  I asked.
"Yes.  I have made a decision I am elated about."  He said.
"I can't wait."  I said.
"Me neither."  He said.
"Do you want to help me set the table?"  I asked.
"I would love to."  He said.

    I am curious about the decision he's made.  It will be interesting to see if Rhiana was right.
"All righty, Gentlemen and Lady.  Dinner is served."  Mom announced.
I take the seat next to Joey and smile at him.  He is glowing as he smiles back.  He is truly gorgeous.

    We finish eating, and I help Mom with the dishes. Joey walks up behind me, and I hand him a towel.  Without hesitation, he starts drying.

"Thank you, Mrs  Austen, for such a delicious meal."  Joey said.
"Any friend of My Mary is a friend of mine, Dear.  No need to thank me."  Mom said.
"Thank you, Joey for your help."  I said.
"It is my pleasure, Miss Ruby."  He said.
"Wow, we got that done lickety-split."  Mom shouted.
"Mom, Joey and I need to talk in private.  We'll be out on the porch if you need anything."  I said.
"Go ahead, Sweetie. I'll be fine.  You do what you gotta do."  She said.

I take Joey's hand and we head outside.  I feel his hand shaking.  I pick up a chair and move it to the far end of the porch, and he follows.  We sit down and stare at each other.  I don't want to say anything until I know what's on his mind.  He kisses me gently then sits back and clears his throat.

"Marilyn, I need to get this off my chest before it bursts."  He said.
"Please, say what you need to say."  I said.
"Marry me."  He said.
"Wh... Wow.  That is not what I thought you were going to say."  I said in disbelief.
"I want more than anything to make love to you, Marilyn."  He said.
"I feel the same way, Joey.  What does your heart tell you?"  I asked.
"My heart tells me to forget my vow.  My mind tells me it is dishonorable if I do that."  He said.
"What decision will bring you the most joy?  Whatever that is - do that."  I said.

He turns with a fixed gaze.  I can see he is taking my advice.  He leans forward and kisses me fervently.

"Come with me."  He says and takes my hand.

We get in the limo and he makes love to me.  It is effortless and natural as if we've known each other for years, not days.  I know now that I did the right thing.

I love Joey body and soul, and I am certain there is no other man for me.
"Thank you, Joey.  That was beautiful."  I said.
"I am sorry I waited this long.  I will marry you, Marilyn Ruby.  All you have to do is say yes."  He said.
"But, it has only been a few days.  Are you positive about that?  I mean, that is a huge commitment to someone you barely know."  I said.
"Do you not feel the same?"  He asked.
"Do you want the truth or shall I lie?"  I asked.
"Lie to me."  He said.
"No, I don't feel the same."  I said.