Shane turns around to smile at her friends and wink at Molly before she heads up to the podium. She takes the microphone from Drew and sheepishly raises her hand, waving to those in attendance.

            “I’m not really all that good with words,” she says, as she nervously scratches her cheek, “or in front of crowds, so I’m going to apologize in advance.” The crowd laughs as Shane nervously shifts her weight from foot to foot. “This exhibit is called ‘Promises.’” Shane walks over to the wall her photographs are on and pulls the cord, dropping the tapestry. Everyone claps as her work is unveiled. Mounted on the wall are pictures of an elderly lesbian couple holding hands, walking through the park, a young lesbian couple, one of which is pregnant, holding each other, an old, weathered home, and the pictures that Shane took of Molly asleep in her bed. Shane watches Molly as she looks at the pictures, a smile spread wide across her face, her pride in and love for Shane written across her face. Shane continues, once the applause has dwindled, “My partner, Molly, inspired me when she said at her mother’s commitment ceremony that everyday we make promises to the ones we love with each kiss, each hug, each touch and each new day we spend together.” Shane places the microphone on the podium and steps down onto the floor. Taking a deep breath, she slowly walks over to Molly, who is at a loss for words. “Molly,” she says, taking her hands in her own, “When we first met, my heart made a promise to you to love you forever. Now, I think it’s time that I made some more promises.” Shane nervously begins playing with Molly’s fingers as she says, “Those pictures are promises that I want to make to you. A promise of a home, children, a long, happy future together.” She looks into Molly’s eyes and sees tears there. She smiles softly and says, “Molly, I love you. Will you marry me?”

            With tears streaming from her eyes, Molly, still in shock, nods her head and mouths the word, “Yes.” Shane smiles and laughs as she wraps Molly in her arms and hugs her tight, as the crowd around them claps and cheers.