Elisabeth and Miriam drove separate cars to Fairhaven. Miriam wanted to return to the hotel fairly early since she had an early flight. Jackson met them on the walk.
"What a lovely home."
"Thank you, and welcome. Did you ladies have a nice visit?"
Elisabeth kissed him. "Wonderful. It's been too long."
Jackson noted the two cars and held Elisabeth back a bit, whispering, "Does this mean I won't have to spend another interminable night in an empty bed?" She smiled and nodded with a slight blush.
Sarah met them at the door and introduced herself, then turned to Elisabeth and grabbed her hand, "Ahhhh! It's gorgeous! Just look at the brilliance!" Jackson wondered if Elisabeth had made her mother aware that Sarah didn't know about the diamond. He caught her attention hoping she would see his concern. She nodded, assuring him. Sarah introduced Connor then turned her attention back to the ring. "Jackson, which jeweler did you use? This stone must be near flawless."
"I went to the diamond district in New York." It was only a white lie since a jeweler there had set the stone. He made drinks and they all sat. Sarah wasted no time beginning her third degree. She asked Elisabeth if she had a date and venue in mind yet. Jackson interrupted, "We have only been engaged one day. I promise, you will be consulted on every decision, but we haven't discussed a single detail yet."
"Oh, all right." She turned back to Elisabeth. "Can I go gown shopping with you?"
"Of course. I hope you'll play both Wedding Planner and Matron of honor."
Sarah screeched and hugged her. "We are going to have so much fun!"
Miriam smiled, yet displayed a faraway look that seemed odd to Jackson. She was thinking how much like Emily Sarah seemed. Elisabeth's little sister would have reacted exactly the same way to her sister's engagement. Elisabeth was stoic, always holding her feelings close; and Emily was the effervescent, impulsive optimist.
Jackson noticed Elisabeth seemed lighter and more at ease than he had ever seen her. He didn't realize until now just how heavy her family's decision had weighed on her. She was talking with her mother and Sarah, but must have felt his gaze because she peered at him quizzically. He winked in answer.
They went in for dinner to find that Sarah had kept to her promise. Everything was perfect, yet understated. She had prepared tenderloin tips gorgonzola over pasta. Jackson stood and raised his glass. "Miriam, thank you for joining us this evening. More importantly, thank you for giving me the opportunity to prove myself worthy of you daughter." He paused for a moment before continuing, "Elisabeth, I used to believe living an eternity would be more than I could endure. Now, I feel it is not nearly enough time to spend with you. Let us toast to putting aside prejudice and following our hearts. Cheers."