Page 90 of Holding Her Heart

Wow. That was a question. “I, uh…I’d be devastated in all honesty.”

Dom nodded, her eyes focusing back on her beer bottle.

“Is that what’s happened? One of you has accused the other?” This really wasn’t Aster’s territory.

“Blair thinks I’m shagging Zoe.”

Ouch, that had to hurt. Zoe was gorgeous, the entire team agreed, but Dom wasn’t that kind of person. At least, Aster didn’t get that impression. “And she thinks that because…”

Dom lifted a shoulder. “Because she doesn’t trust me. But why would she? I used to sleep around before I met her.”

“Sleeping around and cheating are two entirely different things, mate.”

“Tell that to my supposed fiancée.” Dom exhaled, sitting forward in her seat. She looked like she had a lot to say, so Aster swigged her beer, giving her whatever time she needed to process. “You know, I’ve never met anyone like Blair before. She’s so confident but complicated. And I get that, she had a terrible marriage, but we’ve always just clicked. I think we’ve had an argument once since we got together, and it was over something stupid that I don’t even remember. But this? God, this hurt.”

“I bet it did.”

“And now I don’t know how to go home and just pretend nothing happened. She’s apologised, she’s been grovelling since she realised what she’d said, but I can’t even look at her. Because when I do, will she be trying to figure me out? Will she be watching me for any sign that I’m lying?”

“I think she realises the mistake she’s made, Dom.”

“You don’t mistakenly accuse someone of cheating, Aster. That kinda thing comes from somewhere.”

Dom had a point. Something must have caused Blair to accuse Dom. “No, I suppose you’re right.”

“So, I have some stuff in my car, and I’m leaving for my mum’s tomorrow.”

Aster wasn’t sure that was wise. If she left, would they ever figure it out? Blair and Dom were the perfect couple until now. Aster couldn’t imagine them not being together. “You’re leaving?”

“For now.” Dom nodded.

“Blair was in Eden’s office earlier. She was really upset.”

“Poor Blair.” Dom rolled her eyes. “I know she’s had a really shit time, but why is she the one everyone is concerned about? What about me?”

“I am concerned about you. And so is Eden. That’s why I’m here, because Eden knew you needed a friend.” Aster reached a hand across the table, squeezing Dom’s. “Look, why don’t you stay at my place? I’m at Eden’s most of the time, and if you need somewhere to gather your thoughts, nobody will bother you there.”

Dom didn’t respond. She just sat staring at the table, chewing her lip.

“Think about it, at least. You can stay there until you and Blair have figured this out.”

“I only had a drink with Zoe,” Dom explained. “While we were away, she wanted to know about the team and who was who. You know, asking around to get a better idea of what she was dealing with. So, we planned to meet at the pool bar one afternoon for coffee. She’s great, professional, and I think she’s going to take the team further than Mark ever could.”

“That sounds like something the team needs.”

“Maybe…I don’t know.” Dom blew out a long, slow breath. “I called the wedding venue this morning.”

“Oh, yeah? Have you two decided on more plans?”

“No. I called to ask how much notice we have to give if we want to cancel.”

Aster’s heart dropped into her stomach. She couldn’t imagine making a decision like that. Thank God her and Eden had only just met. It meant Aster could make sure she learned from everyone else’s mistakes.

“We’ll lose the deposit, but I have some savings that I was going to buy Blair’s dress with. So, I’ll just give that to her for what she’ll lose. I know she doesn’t need the money for a dress, but I wanted to be the one who bought it for her. Just to make it that bit more special, you know?”

“I do.” Aster eyed her phone sitting on the leather booth beside her. Should she send Eden a quick message to let her know what was going on? She didn’t want to betray Dom’s trust, but Aster was torn. Blair needed to know if this was something her fiancée was considering, didn’t she? “I’d hate to see you two end things.”

“Yeah, well…” Dom visibly swallowed. “I mean, have I not shown her how much I love her? Do I not do enough?” Dom laughed. “You know, that was always one of my biggest worries. Not being able to give Blair everything she deserves. Because she’s fucking amazing for what she’s been through, and I’m just…me. And to be honest, I’m exhausted with trying to make everything perfect.”

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