William and Marie sat side-by-side on the worn wicker bench, soaking in the afternoon sunshine and the picturesque scenery of the surrounding garden. It was an ordinary day, but William wanted to make it special. They had been married for over 50 years, and their life together was shaped with so many different facets- including numerous children & grandchildren- and William wanted to give Marie a gift that was worthy of everything she had given to him. 
“Marie, my love” he said tenderly, pulling a ring from his pocket. The Calla^TMCut diamonds shone brilliantly in the sunlight. William slipped the ring onto Marie’s finger and gazed deeply into her eyes as he spoke: “Marie, our life together has exceeded far Beyond Eternity. The facets of this diamond represent the facets of our life, and the ring symbolizes our endless love. And just like this garden around us, my love for you will always blossom.”
Submitted by Suzanne Mitchell; 2nd place winner for 2nd Calla Romance Writing Contest;