The diamond emitted its own energy—projecting the color of the caribbean onto the otherwise white linoleum floor.

“It’s spectacular, Derrick.” The awe of the moment stole the emphasis and emotion from my words. I stated them blankly, distracted by the immense beauty of the intricately cut and otherworldly size of the diamond.

I was ashamed. Such a magnificent treasure sat in the kitchen of my trailer home like royalty would in a horse barn.

I’d never tell Derrick how dissatisfied I was with my own life. But the instant I looked away from the diamond I saw the same rat grey cabinets and the same mouse brown counter. Dirty dishes were piled high. One mocking plate stuck out, still crusted with ketchup from my two-hot-dog-dinner four nights ago. The rusty red ugliness smeared the plate and clashed against the emanating blue beauty.

I lost control.

“John?” Derrick noticed my silent tears fall. He put an arm around my shoulder. My self hatred poured over, trickling in the faint glow.