The Picnic

It was Saturday morning, and Ed had special plans. Today was the day he was going to ask Bella to marry him.

He decided to ask the question during a picnic in the park. He put bread, cheese, fruit, wine, and a blanket in a basket along with two small cakes for dessert.

Then, before he left the house, he put the ring in his pocket.

He walked to Bella’s house and told her he was taking her somewhere special. When she asked where they were going, he told her it was a surprise.

Ed and Bella walked for five minutes until they came to a park. There were not many people there, and it was very quiet. Bella was happy when she saw the green grass and the tall trees. She smiled when Ed put the blanket on the ground.

‘’What a wonderful idea. I love picnics.’’ She said happily. ‘’Thank you, Ed.’’

Ed took out the food, and they started to eat and drink. The afternoon was calm. Birds sang, and the sun was warm. Ed felt excited. He wanted to give Bella the ring, but he waited for the right time.

Suddenly, the sky went dark. Big grey clouds covered the sun. The wind moved the trees, and the birds flew away.

Next, there was a loud crash of thunder, which made Bella jump with fright. Rain began to fall heavily, and they started to feel cold. The blanket and the food were now wet. Their picnic in the park was ruined.

The wind became stronger, and the rain got even heavier. A big stick fell from a tree and hit the ground close to them. Bella was afraid. Ed held her hand, and they ran quickly towards a tall tree.

It was not safe under the tree, but it was the only dry place. Rain hit the leaves above them. Water ran down their faces. The storm was all around.

Ed looked at Bella. This was not the plan. He wanted a day with sun, flowers, and peace. Instead, there was rain, noise, and fear. But he knew he could not wait.

He put his hand in his pocket and took out the small ring.

‘’Bella, I am sorry about the picnic, but I love you so much. I want you to be my wife. Will you marry me?’’
‘’Yes!’ said Bella immediately. ‘’I love you too, Ed. Nothing would make me happier.’’

Ed and Bella were wet and cold, but they were happy to be together.

Later, when the rain stopped, they walked home hand in hand. The park was full of water, but they were happy. The picnic had been ruined, yet the day was one they would never forget.

📒 Key vocabulary

• plans – ideas for what you want to do in the future
• picnic – a meal you eat outdoors
• blanket – a piece of cloth you sit or sleep on
• basket – a wooden container
• pocket – a small bag in your clothes for carrying things
• clouds – white or grey shapes in the sky that bring rain
• thunder – a loud noise that you hear during rainstorms
• fright – fear
• ruined – destroyed
• stick – a small piece of wood from a tree

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