"Mia, is this the kind of diamond ring a guy only picks once in his life?" Jamie asked, examining the ring on Mia's hand.
Mia nodded with a smile, "Yep, this is the engagement ring the 'mystery man' got for me, along with his little treasure."
Jamie grinned, "And that little treasure is you, right?"
Mia laughed, "Exactly, my one true love."
Wearing the ring was her way of letting everyone know she was taken, and it also hinted at her partner's financial prowess. Sure, she could have worn any ring or even turned it into a necklace, but a custom-made ring like this said she was serious about her relationship.
People got the message and gave Mia her space.
Andre, feeling a bit jealous and curious about Denny, subtly asked his wife, "So, what do you think of Denny?"
Mia, always straightforward, replied, "He's quite handsome and nice. He's really smart, does well in his studies, and is always eager to help me and Leo with ours. He did show off a bit at first, which I didn't quite get, but as I got to know him better, I found him reliable. It's understandable; he's always been the top achiever in his family, the one with the most potential according to his teachers. Everyone has their little quirks. He's a good guy, and he has this gentlemanly vibe. He often shares study tips with me and Leo. As a thank you, I often share some snacks and fruits from home with him, and occasionally treat him to a meal. Leo, though, has developed a little crush on him."
Andre listened intently, his brows furrowed. Mia rarely talked so much about someone else.
He wasn't worried about her straying; he just didn't want anyone trying to steal her away, knowing how charming she was.
But the last part of her statement put him at ease. "Your desk mate's got a crush on your back desk mate?"
That evening, as their son slept, Mia cuddled up to her husband, excitedly sharing gossip, "Yes, darling, you're the only one I've told. Leo's got a crush on Denny. She hasn't said anything, but I can tell. I think Denny might feel something for Leo too. They've been quite taken with each other recently. Whenever we walk, I let them walk side by side. And, oh,"
Andre half-listened, already knowing what he needed. He held Mia close, feeling no threat, and they drifted off to sleep together.
Their little one, with his chubby cheeks, slept peacefully, dreaming sweet dreams.
---
One chilly autumn afternoon after school,
Mia stood at the doorway, phone in hand, "Hey, honey, where are you? I can't find you."
On the other end, Henry was fussing. "I'm in the parking lot, just follow our little guy's cries."
Andre was pacing the parking lot with Henry, his son's cries echoing around.
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