Page 71 of Resolute

“I agree, they are big. But that doesn’t tell me if there’s anything about these rings that you like.”

I glance at Vicente, who watches me with curiosity. then at the jeweler, who’s simply observing the scene—neither judging me nor sporting a scowl. Feeling a little more comfortable, I start inspecting the rings.

Even though I’m not a fan of the oversized diamonds, I do like one with a thick rectangular shape.

“I think this shape is pretty. Also this one,” I say, separating two rings from the rest.

Vicente’s gaze fills with pride. He shifts, resting his arm on the back of my chair, which makes him seem even bigger. Stronger.

“Oh, you have good taste, Ms.,” the jeweler says with a smile.

“Flores. My last name is Flores,” I add.

“Beautiful. It means ‘flowers,’ doesn’t it?”

I nod with a grin, and he picks up the box. “I’ll be right back with some other options in emerald and Asscher cuts. You seem to have a classical and timeless taste, Ms. Flores.”

As soon as he leaves, Vicente leans closer.

“I agree with him. You have excellent taste,” he says against my neck, sending a jolt of electricity through me.

“Vicente, I’m sure there are a million cameras here. Besides, we haven’t finished our conversation.” I try to put some distance between us. As much as he turns me on, I need to do this right.

“Oh, you mean your inquisition?” he teases with a smirk. I roll my eyes but can’t hide the smile that forms on my lips.

“Alright, what do we think about these?” The jeweler returns, this time with six rings displayed on the velvet tray.

My eyes immediately land on a gorgeous ring. Although the rock is still big, the setting makes it look more normal. I glance at Vicente and he raises a brow in question.

“I really like this one,” I say, pointing to the ring that caught my eye.

“Great minds think alike. That one is perfect for you,” Vicente says, reaching for it.

My breath hitches the moment I realize what he’s about to do. He takes my left hand and slides the ring onto my ring finger.

It’s a perfect fit.

As I watch the diamond sparkling against my skin, I can’t help but think of Ava. Will she see this as a blessing or just another one of my mistakes?

For her sake, I need to make this work.

He traces small circles over the ring with his thumb, and despite starting this as a fake arrangement, I feel it—this is real. This is really happening.

“Oh, great choice, Ms. Flores. That is a six-carat emerald-cut diamond mounted on three rows of baguette and round diamonds. It’s definitely a classic, statement piece.”

“We’ll take it,” Vicente says, without hesitation.

The jeweler claps once, clearly excited. “Excellent. Is there anything else I can help you with today?”

As I shake my head, Vicente adds, “Actually, yes. There are a few more things we need.”

By the time we leave, Vicente has bought more jewelry than I ever imagined owning—ring, bracelets, earrings, even a necklace for Ava. He never once asked about the price, as if it didn’t matter.

As we make our way back to the car, he asks, “How much longer do we have before we have to pick up Ava?”

I check my watch. “Two more hours.”

He grins. “Do you want to grab a bite so we can continue with the interrogation?”

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