Garnet & Jewel: The Ring

Photo by Artsy Vibes on Unsplash

I love walking the river trail, especially during this time of year. Mother Nature has finally settled on crisper air, and the leaves are almost at their peak — drawing me in with their ever-changing palette. As I kicked the collage of colors beneath my feet, I remembered the first time that Jewel and I met.

It seemed like ages ago.

I wonder how she is doing. I thought mesmerized by the reflection in the river. The image of the brightly colored trees and the indigo sky looked so perfect.

She would love to be here. No sooner did the thought escape my mind then a gust of wind kicked up, demanding my attention.

The leaves fell effortlessly around me with a single crimson and yellow one landing on my hand. I grabbed its stem and twirled it around fancifully. It was one of our favorite things to do as kids besides jumping in a big old pile of leaves. Then, grabbing a handful and simultaneously chucking them at one another — laughter exploding from us both.

Jewel and I had been friends since childhood.

We met during the fall fair while we were both waiting in line for the fortune teller — anxious to hear about our futures, giddy with excitement, and hopeful that our boy crushes would be confirmed.

We were so young and naive.

From that day forward, however, we were almost inseparable — one adventure to the next: childhood, our teenage years, young adulthood, and eventually adulthood. And the bond of friendship grew stronger each day.

Still twirling that damn leaf and lost in thought, I heard the chimes of the church clock tower off in the distance. That’s when it all changed. I whispered to myself.

Jewel was never the same after that day. I remember watching in disbelief as she gently slipped it off her finger with both tears and determination. Then, she gracefully walked away.

I went after her, but she was already gone. From behind me, I heard a voice call my name. I turned around, and he was holding it.

“Keep it safe,” he said. “Jewel will want you to keep it safe.”

And with that, I reached out my hand and took it gently from his.

“Don’t worry,” I said. “I will.”