When Love is a Question Mark
Chapter 195: Rings

Chapter 195: Rings

Inside his office, Samuel walked over to his desk, still smiling as he sat down. It felt like a weight had been lifted, like something had changed within him—something that couldn’t be explained but only felt. Zinnia had become more than just a part of his life; she was his future, his reason for everything, and nothing in the world could shake that feeling now.

Timmy, Samuel’s ever-loyal assistant, had been standing in the hallway when he saw Samuel enter. At first, he thought he was imagining things, but the smile on Samuel’s face was real. It was rare—so rare, in fact, that Timmy could barely believe his eyes.

Before Samuel could settle into his chair, Timmy, still in shock, fumbled for his phone. He didn’t want to get caught, but he couldn’t let this moment slip by. He quickly opened the camera app, holding his phone up to capture the rare expression on his boss’s face.

Samuel, lost in his thoughts, didn’t even notice. His gaze was distant as he sat down, completely unaware of Timmy’s presence. It wasn’t until Timmy saw the light flicker on his phone’s screen that he realized he was recording. He froze, holding his breath.

Timmy’s heart raced, his fingers trembling slightly as he discreetly continued to record. This was going to be something to remember. A glimpse of the real Samuel, the one who never showed his emotions, had been captured on camera.

Timmy quickly stopped the recording, his heart pounding. He pressed the save button and slipped the phone back into his pocket, praying that Samuel wouldn’t turn around and catch him.

As Samuel settled into his chair, still smiling like a man who had everything figured out, Timmy let out a quiet exhale. He had just witnessed the most incredible moment of his career. His boss, usually so cold and distant, had been so carefree and full of joy—well, except for that one time when he was smiling and spinning in his chair. Back then, Timmy had almost thought his boss had gone insane from all the troubles he was facing.

For a moment, Timmy just stood there, watching him, still in awe of what he had just witnessed. It wasn’t like Samuel to let his guard down, but there he was, basking in his own thoughts, clearly in a good mood.

After a few minutes of silence, Samuel snapped back to reality. He sat up straight in his chair, his smile still lingering, but now his thoughts were turning to something new.

"Timmy," Samuel called out, his voice startling the assistant, who had been trying to sneak away without drawing attention.

Timmy stiffened, his heart pounding in his chest. "Y-Yes, boss?"

Samuel’s eyes focused on him, and there was a spark of amusement in his gaze. "Book me an appointment with that jewelry shop. I want to buy a ring. A special one."

"A ring?" Timmy repeated, his voice barely a whisper.

Samuel nodded, his smile widening. "Yeah, for Zia. I want to get her something special and show her how much she means to me."

"Of course, sir," Timmy said, still stunned by the sudden shift in his boss’s demeanor. He quickly grabbed his phone, ready to make the appointment.

Later that afternoon, Samuel walked into the jewelry shop.

The store was grand, with sparkling displays of diamonds and precious stones glimmering under soft, golden lights. It was no surprise that this was the most popular jewelry brand in the city, known not only for its exquisite designs but also for its sky-high prices. Samuel didn’t flinch at the thought of the expense—Zinnia deserved the very best.

The moment he stepped inside, a well-dressed attendant approached him with a professional yet warm smile. "Good afternoon, Sir. Welcome to Radiant Jewels. How may I assist you today?"

Samuel’s usual serious expression softened, replaced by a calm, almost shy demeanor. "I’m looking for a ring," he said, his voice steady but low. "Something special—for a proposal and... a wedding."

The attendant’s face lit up. "Congratulations, Sir! You’ve come to the right place. We have a stunning collection of engagement and wedding rings. If you’d follow me?"

Samuel nodded and followed her to a private section of the store. This area was more intimate, designed for moments like this, with plush chairs and carefully curated displays showcasing the finest rings.

"Do you have any particular preferences in mind?" the attendant asked as they reached the display case.

Samuel hesitated briefly, his thoughts drifting to Zinnia. Her delicate fingers, her smile that could light up any room—everything about her felt like it deserved the most beautiful symbol of their bond. "Something timeless," he said. "Elegant, but not overly flashy. It should suit her perfectly."

The attendant smiled knowingly. "Of course, Sir. Let me show you some of our most popular designs."

She carefully selected a few rings, placing them on a velvet tray. "This first one," she began, holding up a diamond solitaire set in platinum, "is a classic. The single diamond symbolizes unity and strength. It’s simple but speaks volumes about everlasting love."

Samuel examined it closely, his sharp eyes studying every detail. He admired its elegance but shook his head slightly. "It’s beautiful," he said, "but I want something... with more meaning."

The attendant nodded and picked up another ring. This one had a radiant sapphire at its center, encircled by a halo of smaller diamonds. "This halo design is stunning. The sapphire symbolizes loyalty and sincerity, while the diamonds enhance its brilliance. It’s a popular choice for those looking to express deep devotion."

Samuel tilted his head, his lips pressing into a thoughtful line. "It’s closer to what I’m looking for," he murmured. "But I need something that feels... like her."

He continued to study the rings as the attendant introduced each one, explaining their designs and meanings. Finally, his gaze landed on a three-stone ring with a round diamond at its center, flanked by two smaller diamonds on a rose gold band.

"This one," the attendant said with a smile, "is a classic three-stone ring. The diamonds represent the past, present, and future of a relationship—a beautiful symbol of your shared journey. The rose gold band adds a warm, romantic touch."

Samuel’s eyes softened as he imagined the ring on Zinnia’s finger. "It’s perfect," he murmured. "The meaning fits... and the rose gold—it feels more personal."

The attendant nodded. "An excellent choice, Sir. And for the wedding band?"