.It was her birthday. He had decided to surprise her with a gift from Tiffany.

On reaching the apartment, he tiptoed into the bedroom. He saw her sitting in front of the looking glass, frowning at the tell tale signs of age that seemed to be catching up with her. Slowly, he sneaked up behind her. The face in the mirror suddenly lit up on seeing him.

"Happy birthday, sweetheart," he whispered as he bent down to kiss her forehead.
"You are late, again," she sulked.
He bowed his head down in apology. He knew exactly how to please her.
"I'm sorry, Darling. You know I'm trying," he pouted as she harrumphed in mock anger.

Now was the time to bring on the real birthday surprise.
"I got this for you!' he proudly exclaimed, as he proffered her the box with the 'Tiffany' trademark stamp.

Instantly, her eyes gleamed with delight.
'You didn't have to do this, Ajit,' she said, opening the tiny velvet case with child-like enthusiasm.

Inside was the prettiest diamond ring she had ever seen. A giant solitaire stared back at her.                       
18 carats, princess cut.

She jumped with joy.
"Oh, I love you so much, darling," she purred smothering him with kisses.

"Me too, sweetheart," he laughed. Then a moment later, he added, "Just make sure the Missus doesn't find out."
She giggled at the thought of his wife finding them like this, plopped on the bed, in each other's arms, in a state of undress.
He wondered how much longer he could get away with this.

However, all traces of guilt disappeared between two lovers wrapped in satin sheets clinging to each other. While they panted and moaned in a bout of steamy sex, a frantic wife ranted and raved...and blamed the maid for her missing ring.