Page 119 of Dust to Dust

At the sight of the name on the box, she gasped. “You got me a microscope?”

“It’s an antique one.”

“I know.”

“You do?”

She smiled. “This particular serial number for an E. Leitz Wetzlar is from before the 1900’s.”

“You’ve got a good eye,” I mused.

“I know my microscopes.”

After setting the wooden box on the table, Isla opened it up to reveal a brass microscope in pristine condition. I’d paid extra to make sure of it. Her fingers ghosted over the equipment.

When she finally turned back to me, there were tears in her eyes. “Fuck. You don’t like it.”

Without a word, she launched herself at me. As she squeezed me tight, I said, “We can get one you like.”

She pulled away to stare into my eyes. “I don’t want another one. The one you gave me is absolutely beautiful.”

“But you’re crying,” I protested.

“Because I love it so much.” She hopped up into my arms, wrapping her legs around my waist. With her lips against my ear, she whispered, “It’s the best present anyone ever gave me.”

A jolt shuddered through me at her words. Pulling her back to where I could look into her face, I asked, “It is?”

She nodded. “It was so thoughtful.”

“I think cooking for me was pretty thoughtful.”

She laughed. “It isn’t a competition.”

“I know. No woman has ever cooked something I loved before.”

Isla’s lips turned down in a pout. “But it tasted awful.”

“It doesn’t matter. It was the thought that counts and all the trouble you went to.” I brought my lips to hers. “It was the best present ever.”

“But I didn’t even buy anything for you.”

“You didn’t need to. It was perfect.”

“Just as yours was.”

“I’d thought about a diamond necklace or bracelet,” I answered honestly.

Isla shook her head. “Your gift speaks to my heart. It’s more beautiful than the most expensive diamond necklace.”

I rubbed my thumb along her bottom lip. “I suppose for our second-month anniversary I should find more antique equipment.”

With a grin, Isla replied, “I would love that.” She tapped her chin. “I’m going to have to talk to Caterina or your brothers to see what I can get you.”

“All I want is you.”

“And you have me.”

“Can I have more of you after we finish the pizza?”

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