Page 52 of Finding Parker

“No sir,” I responded as I looked toward the display cases.

“That place is a chain store. Like McDonald’s or Taco Bell. As you’ve assured me, this is a once in a lifetime event, so you’re going to want a once in a lifetime diamond,” Kenton shook his head in disbelief as we stood inside the doorway.

“Now let’s have a look, shall we?” Kenton said as he motioned toward the well-lighted cases full of jewelry.

“Welcome to Harold Stevens Jewelers, My name is Ryan, how can I assist you gentlemen?” the man behind the counter asked as we approached.

“Ryan, I’m Kenton, to my right is Parker, and behind me, Downes. Parker is going to propose to the woman of his dreams directly, and we’re in the market for an engagement ring. We need to see what you have. Round, colorless, clear, of the finest cut, and only if they exude sophistication from their every facet,” Kenton chuckled.

“Well, congratulations, Parker. And it’s a pleasure to meet you Kenton, Downes,” Ryan nodded.

“Have you a carat size you’re hoping to see? And regarding price range, where would you prefer to begin and end?” Ryan asked.

“We have no limits, Ryan. Our only concern for the time being is quality,” Kenton responded proudly.

I turned toward Kenton and raised my eyebrows. Immediately I was met with a scowl and a pat on my shoulder by his right hand.

“Well, the new Celtic inspired rings by MAEVONA are quite breathtaking. Maeve Giles has a commitment to excellence as is apparent by his clean lines and distinct feminine style. My only fear is once you’ve seen one, nothing else will suffice,” Ryan smiled.

“I fear nothing. And we’ll require proof,” Kenton chuckled as he squeezed my shoulder in his hand.

Ryan walked to the end of the case and removed a small display of twelve rings, a few of which were fitted with diamonds. They were all gorgeous in their own individual design, but one clearly stood out as exceptional. Close to the center of the display, in a combination of the brightest silver and gold metals, and fitted with a massive round diamond was the most breathtaking example of jewelry I have ever seen.

“Oh my,” I stammered as I pointed to the ring in the center of the display.

“Breathtaking, isn’t it?” Ryan half whispered.

“Quite,” Kenton breathed.

Ryan pulled a cloth from his pocket and carefully removed the ring, “This particular piece is the iconic award winning Celtic solitaire diamond ring design Eriskay. It’s by Maeve Giles, of course. This is the first edition. As you can see, no side stones, just your center stone. It needs nothing else. We can have one designed and fitted with a stone of your choosing.”

“Weight?” Kenton asked as Ryan carefully handed me the ring.

I grasped the cloth in my fingers and held the ring between my thumb and forefinger. It was a true work of art.

“The stone as fitted is five point two two carats,” Ryan responded.

“Well?” Kenton whispered.

I looked up and smiled, “I love it. It’s…it’s…perfect.”

One corner of Kenton’s mouth curled into a smile, “Perfect, huh?”

I nodded eagerly.

“Color?” Kenton asked as he looked down at the ring.

“Colorless.”

“Clarity?” Kenton asked as he admired the ring.

“VVS1, the stone was hand-picked to compliment the ring’s design, and intended to be used for our display of the MAEVONA line.” Ryan responded.

I admired the ring, turning it in my fingers as I marveled at the light refracted through the stone. One could easily get lost in the beauty of the diamond alone. It isn’t any wonder women are drawn to such beauty.

“Price?” Kenton breathed as he continued to admire the stone.

“It isn’t our intent to sell this particular piece, Kenton. It’s used to lure prospective customers to the MAEVONA line. It appears to be working rather well.”