Page 46 of Selfish Desires

Wendy sat and half laughed. “Not exactly. He’s having an event at his store and needed a catering order. He wanted to make sure I had availability.”

“I see,” I said, trying to keep my tone neutral even though my insides twisted. “You know, I’m so proud of you. The life you made for yourself. Your talent. Everything.” I took her hand, bringing her cold fingers to my lips. “I’m so lucky to sit here with you, Wendy,” I uttered, kissing her digits. “You have no idea how lucky I feel.”

Wendy smiled, but this time, the smile did reach her eyes, lighting them up. “Anything else you want to tell me?”

“I love you.”

“I love you, too, Vincent,” she replied, her voice holding an undercurrent of vulnerability, gripping my soul.

She leaned into me, resting her head against my shoulder and making my heart race madly within my chest.

The beach was eerily quiet as we sat there, enjoying the moment. The waves seemed to hold their breath, waiting for me to make the next move. “There’s something else,” I added, hesitantly pulling away from her just enough to reach my hand into my coat pocket.

Wendy watched me with curiosity, her gaze holding a hint of wide-eyed wonder. “I do have something else to give you,” I said and watched the anticipation lighting up in her eyes. Taking the black velvet box out of my pocket, I opened it and revealed the gold bracelet inside. A gasp slipped from her lips as she looked at the bracelet and then back at me.

“What's this for?” She clutched her chest.

“It's a promise.” My voice was firm, but my hands shook as I picked up the bracelet from the box. “It signifies that I am here for you no matter what happens.”

I held the gold band up to the sunlight. Its surface shimmered, and a tiny diamond embedded in it sparkled. She reached out hesitantly and traced the engraving delicately etched on its surface with her index finger. Her breath hitched when she recognized the words it bore'Forever Yours.'

“Vincent.” Wendy gasped. “This is... beautiful.”

“Do you wanna try it on?”

Wendy nodded, lost for words. I unclasped the bracelet and gently wrapped it around her wrist before fastening it carefully. It fit perfectly, the golden band shimmering against her pale skin.

“It’s beautiful. And I need a tan.” Wendy laughed, and I joined. The comfort of this moment made me want to keep it forever. She peered down at the jewelry again, tears welling in Wendy's eyes as her fingers lightly traced over the engraving again. “Forever yours...” she murmured.

“I mean every word.” I cupped her face, my thumb brushing away a tear that had slipped down her cheek. I looked into her eyes, saw the love and warmth staring back at me, and my heart swelled with love and a tiny bit of fear. I leaned in closer, whispering into her ear, “And the next thing I give to you will go on your hand.”

Wendy’s breath hitched in her throat, her eyes widening as realization dawned upon her. “Do you really mean it this time?” Her voice was barely audible over the howling winds.

“I mean every word.”

She glanced at me through misty eyes before throwing her arms around me, pulling me close to her. “Yes...I'd love that,” Wendy added with a shaky laugh.

“Good.” I crashed my lips against hers, making sure she knew this wasn’t just an empty line I threw out there. I meant every word. I was going to ask Wendy to marry me soon. The ring already sat in a safe at a bank in Boston. I bought it within the first week I relocated here from Miami.

The kiss deepened, our breaths mingling in the chilly air. If only we could freeze time in this moment of perfect tranquility when it was just us, but nothing ever lasted, unfortunately. Wendy broke the kiss, gasping for air while clutching onto the collar of my jacket.

“Ugh, I have to get ready for work.” She pressed her forehead against mine.

“I know.” I kissed her defined cheekbone. “There’s just one more thing, though.”

“Okay…hit me with it.”

“Oh, if you want to hit it, you might be late for work.” I winked, spotting the blush spreading across Wendy’s cheeks.

“You might be right on that one.” Wendy giggled. “Seriously, what is it?”

“My mom is coming to town in two weeks. And she wants to have lunch. Lobster rolls specifically.”

“Your mom? The formidable Marjorie Press?”

I nodded, grinning sheepishly at her reaction. “That would be the one, yes.”

“So, I’m guessing you told her we’re back together?” Wendy toyed with her new bracelet, spinning it in endless circles.

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