Enchanted Forest Proposal: A Romantic Encounter in Nature's Blissful Haven They walked hand in hand on mowed paths through fields of evergreens, some already tagged for holiday harvest. Jon and Heather each carried a blanket. The path ended at the remains of a dry stone wall. Beyond it was a stand of tall old pines. The dense evergreens shaded the area so heavily their lower branches died off decades ago, leaving clear passage at ground level. There was little underbrush, so walking was easy. The only sound was the breeze in the green canopy above, human footfalls muffled by the thick carpet of pine needles. “I've never seen anything like it,” Heather whispered as they walked. “It's like an enchanted forest. I almost expect to see elves.” “When I was nine years old,” Jon said, “I used to ride these roads with some friends on our bicycles. We looked for places to go camping close to home so our parents would let us. Dad bought our Christmas trees here, so we knew the current owner's father. He told Dad we could do what we liked, but no cooking. Our moms packed stuff, and we camped a couple times a year. I came up here alone a lot after Dad died. I was at THAT age, the moody, pimply-faced kid with a voice that wouldn't change. I hiked around with my thoughts and ended up here. It's been my special place ever since. I've never shared it with anyone.” “Why me?” Heather asked. “I never knew someone like you, babe. I didn't think I would ever bring anyone here, but here we are. And it gets better. Listen.” She stood quietly. “I don't hear anything.” “The breeze is too strong,” he said. “We're too far away.” After a few minutes' walk, she whispered, “Do I hear water?” “Yes. There's a stream ahead. It's not deep enough to swim, but we could play. It's very clean. If we're quiet, we might see deer drinking from it.” They dropped their packs near the stream, spread their blankets, and shared some snacks. It was quiet, and they didn't break the silence with conversation, lying together holding hands. A bird landed on the other side of the stream, eyed them suspiciously for a while, and then flew away. “I love you, Jon. …the next moment changed everything
