Page 70 of The Drummer's Heart

I got down on one knee and sighed. “I just feel like you deserve a better ring.”

She looked down at me. “Is the ring from you?”

“Yes.”

“Then it’s the only ring I want. It doesn’t matter what it looks like.”

It felt like that was my cue. I paused a moment to gather my thoughts and took both her hands in mine.

“Nicole, today was one of the most stressful yet beautiful days of my life. It’s made me realize even more how much I love you. We might not be having a baby, but it’s clearer to me than ever that I want a future with you, whether we’re blessed with a child or not.” I took the velvet pouch out of my pocket and held out the small solitaire. It was only about a quarter of a carat, but the diamond sparkled brightly. “Know that someday, if I ever make it big, the first thing I’m gonna buy you is the ring of your dreams. But for now, I hope you’ll wear this one.”

I placed it on her finger, and it fit like a glove.

“I don’t need the ring of my dreams if I have themanof my dreams,” she told me. “From the moment I laid eyes on you, that’s who you’ve been to me. But honestly…” She looked down at her hand. “It’s perfect. And I’m not just saying that. This is theonlyring I ever want to wear.” She paused. “I love you so much.”

“I love you, too, baby.” I stood and wrapped my arms around her, lifting her into the air. “I promise to make you happy.”

“You already do, more than anything in the world.”

The following night, we flew to Vegas and got married in secret. I promised to always protect her, to never let her down.

Little did I know at the time, that was a huge lie.

CHAPTER 23

NICOLE

Departure day had come before I was ready.

I was picking up the living room before Atticus and I were set to leave when I overheard him having a conversation with my grandmother.

I stood behind the door, listening.

“What’s wrong, sweetheart?” he asked. “You look down. Is it because we’re leaving?”

“It’s hard sometimes,” Mimi said.

“What’s hard?”

“Feeling like you serve no purpose anymore. Like you can’t help anyone. My life has gone from participant to observer. There’s so much I want to do but can’t.”

“You do serve a purpose, Mimi,” Atticus assured her after a moment. “Before I came here, I felt very lost in my life. I was consumed by my career when that shouldn’t be my priority. Being in your presence has reminded me how important it is to be a good example and to put family first always—like you’ve done. You are my biggest inspiration. And Nicole and I wouldn’t be who we are without you. You’re serving your purpose every day just by being here.”

“Well, that’s very sweet, Atticus.”

“Will you promise mesomething?”

“What?”

“I programmed my phone number into your cordless phone here. I know you have other numbers on speed dial, but nowI’m number seven. Will you promise to call me whenever you’re having moments like this one, when you’re feeling sad? I’d love to be able to talk to you and remind you how amazing you are.”

“What if you’re performing?”

“If I see your call, and I can get away, I’ll drop everything. And if I miss it, I’ll call you right back.”

“What did I ever do to deserve such a kind grandson-in-law?”

“You gave me Nicole. She’s the kind, wonderful person she is because of the example you set and the love you always showed her.”

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