Think Quick

Think Quick  (ASR) What better way to get a girl's attention than to smash her face with a basketball. #1536360 by Timothee

The squeak of athletic shoes on the court echoed in the gym that day. Marlo and Jackie were the only two there, blowing off steam after a stressful day in the courtroom. They were junior lawyers, fresh from passing the bar. Both had played basketball in college and often came to the YMCA after work.

A couple of guys came in and started playing. Marlo couldn't help noticing the dark-haired one and she struggled to conceal her interest.

Suddenly, Marlo felt a sharp pain across the bridge of her nose and her eyeglasses skittered across the floor. "Oh, my God! I'm so sorry!" The dark-haired young man ran over to her, retrieving her glasses on the way. "Are you okay?"
Marlo's nose was bleeding and her glasses were split in two, but other than that she couldn't have been better.

"I'm fine, don't worry about it. It was an accident". She thought maybe this was a good accident. "I'm Marlo."

"Jason. Sure you're okay? You're really bleeding:"

"Maybe I need first-aid"

"Maybe you do."

Six months, one nasal reconstructive surgery, and 55 dates later, Marlo and Jason were curled up on his couch after dinner. "I love you, Marlo."

"I love you, too."

"I have something for you." Jason produced an eyeglass case.

"Oh, thanks, you finally fixed my glasses.", Marlo said sarcastically. She slowly opened the case, her heart pounding. Inside were her glasses, nothing else. Where was the ring? She suddenly felt very silly and angry.

"Thanks." She managed to give him a quick peck. "Well, long day tomorrow. I better get going." She got up and with thoughts of vengeance, marched for the door.

At the door, Jason pulled her around, "Lookin' for this?" and he held up the most beautiful engagement ring Marlo had ever seen.