He had a ring and everything. He’d dipped into his retirement fund to buy that ring because he wanted Giada to have something they both could be proud to show off. Kentucky’s stepmother was there as he slipped the large ring on Giada’s trembling finger. Mercedes was also. Hannah smiled with approval as the couple sealed that moment with a kiss. The small dog leaped upon Giada’s lap and tried to get in on that smooch by licking the sides of their faces. “Mercedes, no!” Giada said, abruptly breaking the kiss to address her pup. Kentucky chuckled. “It’s all right, Giada. The baby just wants in on the love.” He patted Mercedes on the head. “Is that better, baby? Do you feel loved now, Mercedes?” In answer, Mercedes licked his face again. The humans laughed. Giada laughed and cried. She was so happy about being engaged to Kentucky. She was elated that he seemed to love her dog just as much as she did. Giada floated on a cloud for the rest of the night. * * * * The next evening, Kentucky took Giada to meet a couple of his friends.
