From leaving work on Friday afternoon until now it's been quite a ride, literally. We, meaning me, Danny, Mom, Dad, Lindsey, and bro and wife packed up and drove to Richmond to surprise Melissa. Lindsey left from work 1½ hours after we did and got there at the same time! Of course, we stopped off along the way and had more traffic and I missed an exit and had to go back. But I guess it worked out because we all entered the parking lot together, so that was cool.
We met Rob's parents and brother from FL and regrouped, changing clothes and waiting for our "time to go." Mission Impossible became possible. Rhonda, Rob's mom, called him to say "she was leaving Walgreen's and would be there soon." That meant that we had all arrived at the Jefferson Hotel and would be in place within 5 minutes.
We scurried pass the seemingly 100's of prom night seniors from the local school to find a spot on the mezzanine high above the crowd. Looking between 2 large columns and into a secluded corner were Melissa and Rob. A silver tray was bought out and when Melissa lifted the domed lid she had the surprise of a lifetime. Rob had arranged everything, including the beautiful engagement ring being in place of the hor'devores.
Rob dropped to his knee and a quick kiss a moment later told us that she'd said yes. Rob then must have told her we were there because she glanced behind her and up to our outlook. Her jaw dropped as she surveyed our small band of 10; we waved and clicked our cameras fiercely.
We joined them with tears and laughter, took more photos and had hotel employees take them as well. We adjourned for a wonderful meal in a secluded dining room and enjoyed getting to know each other, leaving only after we could hold not another bite.
The next day Melissa still looked like a startled deer, not believing that we were all there or that she had the most beautiful ring on her left hand, or how much Rob had done to prove his love for her.
Signing off as MacArthur, III in command of secret details
