by Jack Parker
Clay had their attention now, and heads nodded in agreement.
"I've watched how they've all weathered this storm, because how a person acts in crisis tells you a lot about their character. And last but not least, I've thought a lot about myself. What kind of character am I?"
This got a lot of laughs from the gathering, as Clay had intended.
"I've realized that I've let past mistakes guide my current life; that because of them I've been afraid to do something that would be good for me and hopefully good for others. I've realized that I love Clarissa very much."
The crowd was suddenly completely silent as everyone riveted their attention on the tableau in front of them. Gracie's hands flew to her mouth as she sucked in a breath and waited for what she knew must be coming.
Clay did it right. He got down on one knee in front of Clarissa and in a steady voice asked, "Clarissa, will you marry me?"
Clarissa grabbed Clay's hands and pulled him up with her as she stood too. "Yes, Clay, I will."
Clay pulled a small box from his pocket and opened it, presenting a sparkling engagement ring to Clarissa. Gracie could see tears of joy in her mother's eyes as she examined it before Clay removed it from the box and put it on her finger. The newly engaged couple embraced as everyone clapped and cheered.
Gracie jumped up and hugged them both, then stood aside as everyone else rushed in to congratulate them. She saw Lieutenant Freeman come around the corner of the house and stop to look at the knot of people. She ran up to meet him.
"Hi, Lieutenant. You got here at a good time!" Gracie shouted as she got closer.
"Hope I'm not so late the food's all gone," Ken said. "What's going on?"
"Oh, it's wonderful!" Gracie replied. "Clay just proposed to Mom. I'm so happy for them! And no, you didn't miss the food, there's plenty left, just help yourself."
"You go on back to your friends," Ken told her. "I'll fill a plate and come join you. When we get a chance I'd like to talk to you – I've got a real doozie of a case going, and I'd like to see what you think of the evidence."
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