Chapter 60

Beneath the stunning midday sky, Susan and Alan stood before the judge, ready to seal their commitment. When the judge inquired about the rings, Susan admitted they hadn't brought any.

Alan smirked. "Who says we need 'em?" He fished out two tissue paper packets from his pocket, one marked with a pink X and the other with a blue O. Passing Susan the blue O packet, he urged the judge to proceed.

As the judge instructed Alan to place the ring on Susan's finger, he unveiled his packet, revealing a dazzling 1 ½-carat diamond ring set in yellow gold. Tears welled in Susan's eyes as she beheld the ring, and Alan gently slid it onto her finger.

Then it was Susan's turn. With trembling hands, she opened her packet and discovered a handsome yellow gold man's ring. She slipped it onto Alan's finger, tears streaming down her cheeks.

With the exchange complete, the judge pronounced, "You may now kiss your bride."