The band was simple gold adorned with diamonds, one large stone circled by smaller ones. The whole thing sparkled in the afternoon sunlight, dazzlingly bright – though not quite as bright as Michelle's smile. Her fingers trembled just a little as she showed off the ring to Kate.
"It's gorgeous." Kate shook her head wonderingly, smiling at her friend. "Congratulations, Michelle."
"Thank you." She retracted her hand and looked at the ring, beaming. "You don't think it's too much?"
"Not at all."
"It feels very… conspicuous. Not that I mind…" Kate followed her gaze to where Tony and Jack were talking by the grill.
"You're a lucky girl." Kate had to clamp down on a twinge of envy. Not of the man – Tony was a catch, but he was so besotted with Michelle there was no point in any other woman even trying. Besides, Kate was happy with Jack. But…
Michelle knew her too well by now. She lowered her voice. "So what about you? Think you'll see one of these soon?"
Kate's eyes lingered on Jack. "Honestly… probably not." At Michelle's questioning look, she shrugged a little. "Jack is still very much in love with Teri."
Michelle looked away. After a moment she nodded, tilting her head. "He does care for you," she said, her eyes returning to Kate. "That's obvious."
"He does. And I… I think I'm in love with him," she admitted quietly. "If he asked, I'd say yes. But I don't think he's ready."
Michelle regarded her sympathetically. "I'm sorry."
Kate smiled reassuringly. "It's okay. I'm not in any hurry. I can wait."
"Well, he's an idiot if he keeps you waiting too long. You're good for him."
"Thank you." Kate's smile was a little bigger now. She was grateful for the way his friends had accepted her. There was no question that her life was richer now for knowing them – something that wouldn't change even if things with Jack ended today.
"I could talk to him, if you'd like," Michelle offered.
"Please, don't!" Kate laughed a little, shaking her head. "Honestly, things are fine. I'm happy."
"Okay," Michelle conceded. "If you're happy, that's all that matters."
"Thank you."
"Ladies!" Jack approached them across the grass. "Dinner is ready."
Michelle tossed her a grin and went ahead, practically skipping her way to Tony's side.
Kate and Jack shared a grin and followed at a slower pace. His hand found hers, their fingers lacing easily. Kate felt a surge of warmth at the semi-conscious gesture, smiling up at his profile.
"They're going to be trouble at work," he commented, nodding at the happy couple now snuggling by the grill.
"I'm sure you can keep them in line."
"I hope so." He grinned at her.
She grinned back, content. What she'd said to Michelle was the truth – she was happy. What she and Jack had was good. Anything else, especially with this man, was worth waiting for.