Page 358 of Mario

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"It does not matter," he repeats. "I got everything I wanted for my birthday, and I could not be happier."

"I hope I can always make you this happy," I say softly.

"You will," he says firmly. "I have no doubt."

"How can you be so sure?"

"Because," he says, his hand lifting to stroke my cheek. "I have you, and you have me, and that is the only thing that matters."

My eyes sting, and I nod, unable to speak.

"Happy Birthday, amore," he whispers, pressing a soft kiss to my lips.

"Thank you."

I lay back on the blanket, and his weight settles comfortably over me. I sigh and wrap my arms tighter around his neck, content.

Well, content for now. I won't be able to lie here much longer.

Something bright flashes in my eyes, and I shift my head to try to block it. Also, I think a bug keeps landing on my finger.

There it goes again. I lazily shake my hand to dislodge the bug, and something bright flashes in my eyes again.

"As much as I'm enjoying this, I think I have to go inside soon," I murmur sleepily.

"Why is that?"

"Too bright. Too many bugs."

"Amore, there are no bugs."

"There is. I swear I keep feeling this bug on my hand," I tell him, waving my hand lazily, my eyes half-lidded against the bright sun.

"Are you sure it's a bug?"

"Of course it's a bug. What else would it be?"

"For the love of God, woman, look at your hand."

"Why?"

"Just look," he says, exasperated.

I turn my head, and the light catches a large ring on my finger.

I stare at it.

A square-cut diamond with several glittering baguettes on either side.

My jaw drops, and I glance from the ring to Mario, and back to the ring.

"Where did this come from?" I ask, dumbstruck.

"Fairies," he says sarcastically. "Where do you think?"

"Is this..."

"An engagement ring," he finishes.

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