Music of Souls

Jackson had planned to propose to Elisabeth in Coronet Park after the first snowstorm, but if Miriam wanted to take part he would not deny her. "All right, I'll see you later then."

***

When he arrived, Elisabeth was just about ready to leave for Fairhaven. She kissed him. "I wasn't expecting you."

"I was in the neighborhood, so..." They sat on the sofa.

"What were you doing?"

"Having a drink with your mother."

Elisabeth gasped and stood. "What? Mother is here?"

"Yes. She'll be by in a few hours."

She glared at him intently. "What did you do?"

He dropped down to one knee, removed the jewelry box from his jacket and opened it. "I secured her permission to ask for your hand." Elisabeth's eyes flitted from Jackson to the ring then back again. "The jeweler said it is the most perfect diamond he has ever seen."

She brought both hands to her face, realizing the diamond was theirs and then fell into his arms. "I love you so much."

"Can I take that as a yes?"

She kissed his face all over. "Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes!"

He placed the ring on her finger and they sat holding each other admiring it. "How did you persuade mother to agree to this."

"I guess the Sidwell women can't resist the Parrish charm."

She frowned at him. "You're not going to tell me, are you?"

"There is really nothing to tell. I think your mother already knew the only way you could truly be happy is if she accepted us. I just helped her to say it out loud."

***

Elisabeth met Miriam at the door and threw her arms around her. "Oh, Mother, thank you so much. You've made me so happy."

"Congratulations, sweetheart."

"This is the diamond our blood made. Isn't it the most romantic thing you have ever heard?"

"Yes, I know. It's beautiful." Jackson poured champagne and they toasted their engagement.

Elisabeth asked, "How do you think father will take the news?"

"Oh, he'll have a fit or two and try to hand down an edict." She rolled her eyes. "You know, when push comes to shove, he cannot deny you anything. We'll just have to let him blow off some steam, and then he'll come around."

"And how about Thomas?"

"Ha. He's the last one to sit in judgment after all the crazy things he's pulled through the years. What you should be worrying about is the pack. They will be the hard sell."

"I know, but having the family's support is more important to me. I'm prepared to leave the pack if that's what they decide." Miriam's expression showed deep concern, though she didn't speak.