My father placed his hand on my shoulder.
“Don’t be afraid. I’m not going to hurt you.”
I immediately pushed his hand away.
“Dad, please don’t come any closer.”
His expression changed.
“Emily, you’ve misunderstood me.”
“Then explain!”
He looked toward the old bench.
“First, I want you to do something for me.”
“What?”
“Close your eyes.”
I froze.
“Why?”
“Trust me. Just for a few seconds.”
“No!”
My father let out a heavy sigh.
“I’ve waited nineteen years for this day.”
At that moment, I remembered all his strange words.
“You’ve grown into such a beautiful young woman.”
“If I kissed you, would you be angry?”
“Nobody will disturb us here.”
I started slowly backing away.
“I want to go home.”
My father reached into his pocket and took out a small velvet box.
“Emily, please. Just look at this first.”
I asked nervously:
