Some when in his 30s, Dennis order a set of custom made rings for Jack, Robby, and himself on their anniversary, even though they’re not married, nor do they ever intend to. Robby and him refused to take that occupied place in Jack’s heart.
They wore it on their fingers or around their neck. Jack certainly kept the silver band alongside his wife’s black one and the dog tags.
The rings have their initials on the outside.
Three different phrases are carved on the inside of each rings, directly opposite of the letters.
In this life.
And the next.
And after next.
No eyes were spared from tears when he presented the gift. Both men gave him kisses and breathed him in and embraced each other like it would have been the last time they could do it.
Whenever the realities between their ages hits, it would be a good reminder for them to hold on to one another in the now. And whatever fate has in store, they know they’d want to face it together.
In this life.
And the next.
And after next.
