Page 25 of True Hearts

“It needs something.”

“What?” I glance down at myself, but before I can try and figure out what I might be missing, Graham takes my hand, slipping a ring onto it.

“I know you said the dress was vintage, so I figured this would go.” I stare down at the beautiful antique ring. The round solitaire is surrounded by a halo of diamonds that extend down each side of the band. “Not that you care, but that’s real and a lot more carats than dipshit Michael could handle.”

I snort a laugh, tears forming in my eyes. “No, I don’t care. Is this a family ring?”

Weeks ago, I don’t know if I could have uttered those words because I did care. I had put too much value into possessions and status. Graham has really opened my eyes to what is important in life, which is crazy since he’s only been in it for such a short period of time.

“It is.” His fingers grip my chin, tilting my head up to meet his gaze. “Soon you’ll have my last name and be my family.”

“You’re going to make me cry.” I sniffle and try to blink quickly so that no tears fall. “I just did this makeup.”

“No crying, love.” He presses his mouth to mine. I melt into him, getting lost in the kiss. A throat clearing has us pulling back.

“Did she say yes?” Steve, Graham's driver, inquires.

“He didn’t really ask.” It's only now that I realize this.

“There was nothing to ask.” Graham adjusts his already perfect tie. “We should get going.”

“That’s why I’m here.” Steve winks at me.

“Don’t wink at my fiancée.”

I roll my eyes at Graham, but I can’t help the smile that stretches across my face. There is no way to describe how happy I am at this moment.

Graham tucks me in close to him, making Steve chuckle. We follow him out to the car. I don’t want to be late. Nat and Frankie are going to be at the event tonight too. It’s been too long since I got to hang out with both of them.

“Maybe I don’t care for this dress.” Graham runs his fingers across the swell of my breasts. The heat in his eyes in unmistakable. It fits snugly enough that I don’t need a bra. “I’ll have to fight them off.”

“I think it will be okay.” Graham’s jealous side shouldn't be charming and sweet to me. I eat it up, and it soothes the little girl inside of me. Graham has been helping me heal in ways I didn't know I needed. With each day that passes, I discover something new about myself.

"Michael is going to lose his shit when he sees you."

"Only because he's mad. There is no love lost there."

"Some individuals don't realize their loss until it's irreplaceable." Graham kisses the shell of my ear. "I'd never make that mistake. I know what I've got. Knew it the moment I had you in my arms.” His sweet words are overwhelming but in a good way.

"Thank you," I tell him, pushing away the shyness such a compliment would normally bring.

"No need to thank me. I should be thanking you."

It’s me that initiates the kiss with Graham this time. I pour everything I have into this one, letting him know how much he means to me. He quickly takes control, dominating my mouth as I melt more into him.

“We’re here.” There’s a knock on the window. Steven’s voice brings us both back to reality. Graham and I were so lost in one another that I can’t help but wonder how long we’ve been stopped. I wish for nothing more than to stay in this car with him, but I know we can’t skip out on his family and my friends.

“To be continued.” Graham gives me a quick peck on the lips. “Wait here. I’ll get your door,” he instructs before he exits the car on his side.

I quickly grab my compact out of my purse to make sure my face and hair are all straight. Thank God I wore no-smudge lipstick. It really lives up to its reputation.

Within seconds, Graham is opening the door for me. I place my hand in his and step out of the car, ready to finally face reality. To find out what these ladies have up their sleeves.

ChapterTwenty-One

GRAHAM

Candles in glass cylinders dot the marble stairs fronting the city’s public library. A hedge of roses and greenery mark a path through the entrance. Luna’s eyes are agape.

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