The room filled with a pregnant silence.  It was apparent that the next presenters were missing.  Everyone was looking around when two young voices were heard in hushed tones.

   “Give it to me, I’m the oldest.” 

   “Well it was my idea and I’ve known them longer.  Give it to me.” 

   A small group in the corner stepped back and turned around to reveal Eric and Geoffrey struggling for a now wrinkled piece of paper.   Only the sound of Father clearing his throat made the youngsters look up. 

   Slowly, the boys made their way to the special couple, each holding firmly to his half of the envelope.  Together, they held out their offering.  Catherine accepted the now crumpled envelope while Vincent tried he’s best to give them a stern look.

   “Should I read it aloud?” Catherine asked.

   “No!” they replied urgently.

   Silently Catherine and Vincent read the letter.  Catherine looked up at Vincent with tears in her eyes and then back at the boys.  “This is so sweet,” she told them.

   “Gee, Catherine, you not gonna hug us in front of everybody, are you?” asked Geoffrey, while both boys took a step back.

   Catherine assured them, "I wouldn’t dream of it. "  She added with a smile,  “ But I can’t promise what I might do when I catch you alone.”

   At that the boys ran back to their corner,  glad to have their part over with.