Alex & Clayton (25 page)

Alex got up and kissed Clay full on the lips. He then went down on one knee, produced a ring box, and said, “Clayton Anderson, you’re a very special man who hasn’t always had the things in life that you should, among which was a husband. I love you with all my heart, and it took almost losing you to realize that. I never want to experience that pain again. Will you marry me?”

Clay broke out in tears so bad that Alex and the ring became a total blur. He took the napkin from the table and wiped his eyes so that he could see. He found Alex still on his knees waiting for an answer.

Clay took the ring out of the box and looked at it. It was a beautiful one-carat diamond solitaire engagement band in white gold. It was incredibly gorgeous, and he began to cry all over again but managed to answer the second question of the evening.

“Yes, Alexander Winston, I will marry you!”

Alex swept Clay up off the chair and hugged him tightly as Tim and the few patrons in the restaurant began to applaud. They kissed and hugged and waved to everyone joining in on their celebration of love.

Tim returned to the table and smiled. “Congratulations on your engagement. We wish you well.”

“Thank you, Tim. I’d like to buy a round for the house if you please,” Alex said.

“Of course, that’s very kind of you. I’ll see to it immediately.”

They finished their first glass of wine just as the salads arrived. Couples around the restaurant raised glasses in thanks to Alex and Clay, and it became one of the most memorable nights in the lives of two boys from small towns in New Jersey.

About the Author

J
OHN
S
IMPSON
, a Vietnam-era Veteran, has been a uniformed Police Officer of the Year, a federal agent, a federal magistrate, and an armed bodyguard to royalty and a senior government executive. He earned awards from the Vice President of the United States and the Secretary of the Treasury. John has written articles for various gay and straight magazines. John lives with his partner of 37 years and three wonderful Scott Terriers, all spoiled and a breed of canine family member that is unique in dogdom. John is also involved with the Old Catholic Church and its liberal pastoral positions on the gay community.

Visit John’s web site at
http://www.johnsimpsonbooks.com/
.

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OHN
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IMPSON