Title: Boundaries
author: Cindy Ryan
notes and summary: see part one

The closer the meal came to the end the more nervous Chris got. He knew he wasn't hiding it very well. Merri probably thought he was proposing marriage but Chris wasn't. They weren't there yet but if she turned down what he did ask it would be just as crushing as refusing the marriage proposal. Finally the dessert course was cleared away.

"That was wonderful."Merri commented as she took a sip of wine.

"Yes it was."Chris agreed. "So have the last six months."

"Did you think we'd get this far?"Merri asked with a grin.

"Yeah, I did."Chris countered as he leaned forward and took Merri's right hand in his and squeezing it.

Merri knew Chris was up to something she just didn't know what. Even with her teasing question about them reaching this milestone Merri had known they'd get there too. The last six months hadn't been all smooth sailing but the bumps had only made them stronger. Chris let go of her hand long enough to withdraw a small box from his suit coat pocket. He slid it across the table to her. It was flat and too small to hold any kind of jewelry with the exception of a charm or earrings. She raised an eyebrow at Chris before opening it. Tucked inside a cushion of pink tissue paper was a key. It was dark gold/bronze color and looked like the average every day house key. Suddenly she knew Chris's game plan and Merri's heart began to race as she met his gaze.

"We've been lookin' at places to live near the Quarter."Chris began softly."I know you were thinkin' we weren't at that point yet and these places we saw were to get an idea for some day. But I think we're at that place and I know you really liked that townhouse on North Peters with the view of the water."

Merri remembered that townhouse well. It had been updated but still held some New Orleans charm and had felt cozy and homey the moment they stepped in. Merri felt her eyes blur as tears started and she blinked them away. She picked up the key and smiled.

"If you think we're ready...then I'm in."Merri stated.

Chris got to his feet and walked over to Merri and she stood also. Merri laughed as Chris swept her into his arms and off her feet spinning her in a circle.

"I love you."Chris whispered as he sat Merri on her feet.

Merri linked her arms around Chris's neck as he leaned in to kiss her. When they broke apart Merri found she couldn't stop smiling.

"I love you too."Merri replied quietly.

end