Page 70 of Resolute

Doubt creeps in, but the moment I see his face, I know I’d rather live and make mistakes than simply let life go by as a spectator.

“Lead the way.”

He takes my hand, and we walk gingerly through the endless row of luxury stores. Each one is more impressive than the last. The window displays gleam under the city lights, a world far from mine.

Then, when we reach a turquoise storefront, I gasp.

Suddenly, I feel like Audrey Hepburn inBreakfast at Tiffany’s—a girl who always thought shopping at places like this was only for the rich and famous. A girl who, not long ago, was juggling two jobs to support herself and her daughter.

And now that same girl is about to get engaged with one of the richest men on the planet.

This feels right, though. For once, I’ll trust my heart and live in the moment.

“Welcome to Tiffany’s. How can we help you today?”

A very pretty, very blonde woman greets us the moment we step inside. The store is just as beautiful as in the movies. This is surreal.

“I would like to purchase an engagement ring for my fiancée. Could we use the private room?” Vicente asks, handing her a business card.

It’s black, thick, with golden lettering—designed to make a statement.

The moment she reads his name, her smile widens.

“Of course, Mr. Godoy. Please, follow me.”

We’re taken to a small room at the back of the store. A small table covered in green velvet sits in the middle of the space, with two fancy-looking chairs on each side. The walls are lined with shelves, displaying endless necklaces and bracelets—each piece more stunning than the last.

Vicente pulls out my chair, and I mouth, ‘thank you’ with a smile. He winks—effortlessly sexy—and takes the seat next to me. As soon as we’re seated, a man wearing a black suit comes out of a hidden door.

“Good morning, Mr. Godoy. Ms.,” the man says, glancing at us both. “How can I help you today?”

Vicente unbuttons his jacket and makes himself comfortable in the chair.

“We’re looking for an engagement ring for my fiancée,” he says, nodding toward me.

I beam. For the first time, I let myself feel it—I am proud to be a part of this man’s life.

“Very well. Should I be mindful of a budget?” the man asks.

Vicente shakes his head.

I immediately press my fingers on his forearm, but he just pats my hand, placating me.

“Is there a style you’re going for?” the man asks with a nice smile.

Vicente and I lock gazes. Without looking away, he says, “Surprise us.”.

We remain like that, his hand covering mine, an unspoken connection passing between us. I feel like I could look at him forever and never grow tired. He’s a mystery I want to solve.

The man returns with a box covered in black velvet. “Here we have some of the most unique rings in the store.”

The moment he places it on the table, I gasp. These rings are huge.

“Anything that catches your eye?” Vicente asks. I open my mouth to speak but hesitate, then simply shake my head.

He frowns. "Is there anything in particular you don’t like?” His voice is calm—just curious.

“The rocks areobscenelybig,” I whisper, and he laughs. I press my fingers against his forearm again, and he calms down.

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