Valentina's breath caught. Ricardo reached into his pocket and pulled out a small case, flipping it open with steady hands.
The ring caught the light instantly. Valentina's heart started to pound.
"What are you doing?" she asked, disbelief creeping in. "What are you doing?"
He looked up at her.
"Don't do it," she whispered, her eyes darting around the restaurant. "Don't do it."
"I know that I am undeserving of this chance you have given me," he said. "Actually, I am undeserving of any of the happiness you give me. I really do love you," he continued, his eyes searching hers, holding them there. "And I really think we should give being a family a shot."
"Ricardo…" She shifted slightly in her seat.
"So please," he said. "Valentina Scalese… will you marry me?"
Then, almost as if he knew exactly what might tip the scale, he added, "I have your sister's blessing… in the meantime."
