V3 ch131

"So you basically proposed to her." Dave said to Kyle in the middle row of the family car. We were all headed to Zeke's school for his game on Saturday. Kyle had just told us that he gave Marie some special ring last night while at the beach and Dave was already interrupting. 

"No, it's different." Kyle denied. "Like I said, it's a promise ring."

"Sounds like a pre-engagement ring to me." Noah shrugged from beside me. 

"Mommm." Kyle complained. "Can you explain to these simpletons that it just means I'm taking the relationship seriously."

Mom fought back a laugh. "You're right, but...they're also right." She reached back to rub Kyle's knee. "Don't worry, honey. It's not something to be embarrassed about."

"I'm not embarrassed." Kyle huffed. "I just don't like them calling it an engagement ring."

"I didn't. I said 'pre'. 'PRE.'" Noah emphasized. "Honestly sounds like you're trying to prevent her from dating in college."