Page 65 of The Comeback Tour

She holds up her hand, and a glistening gem glares back at me. I grab it.

“What is this? Are you engaged?”

“Jayce asked me earlier today. We want to keep it on the DL because, well, this moment is about you and Jax. But I had to tell you.”

I give her a hug. “This is incredible! I’m so happy for you. Does this mean you guys worked everything out? How did he pop the question?” I am very aware that I sound like Gemma right now.

“We went out to lunch, like you suggested, and we had a serious conversation. I told him things weren’t working for me and I needed him to shape up or ship out. He told me he doesn’t want to lose me. I thought that was it.”

“And then?”

“We finished our lunch and I felt like we found some solid ground. Honestly, I would be happy with that. But on our way back to the bus, we passed a ring shop and Jayce pulled me inside and told me to pick one. I couldn’t believe it. But it showed me he was serious about everything we talked about and he said there was no time like the present to prove his intentions. We even applied and picked up a marriage license in town.”

“To say I’m surprised is an understatement. I am so happy for you.” I grab her hand and get a closer look at the round sapphire on her ring finger. Leave it to Hayley to choose a ring that goes against tradition. “Honestly, I want you to bask in this moment. Don’t keep it a secret.”

“Are you sure? I don’t mind waiting to share the news with everyone, really.”

“Of course I’m sure. Unless you’re still feeling this out. Are you? Not sure?”

Hayley sighs and says, “No, this is a good thing. I want it. It’s time that we get married.”

“Hayley, as a card-carrying member of young, divorced women of the world, I want to make sure you aren’t settling. You can’t marry someone hoping they will change. You can’t have any doubt. You have to be aligned with your goals.”

“I know, I know. I’m just tired of being in a stagnant place in my life. I want to move forward with something.” A group of women enter the restroom and we motion past them out the door.

“I support your decision,” I tell her as we make our way back to the guys. “But I’m also here if you change your mind or need to talk it through.”

We walk through a foggy mist that’s covering the dance floor. Pushing past all the moving bodies, we finally make our way back to the VIP area. To my slight annoyance, we find waitresses all over the guys. One is trying very hard to flirt with Jax. I clear my throat. Apparently, she didn’t get the memo he’s taken. But she will now.

“Hi, babe,” I say. I kiss his lips and take my rightful throne, on his lap. That move makes me feel like a lioness. Like I’ve come into my power. The wait staff retreat to their corners like prey running scared.

“Look at you, getting jealous,” Jax says.

“I’m not jealous. Just claiming what’s mine. Speaking of which, Hayley and Jayce have some news to share.” I direct our attention to my friend.

“We’re engaged!” Hayley’s gem catches the spotlights above and emits a rainbow around our group.

“No way, dude. Congrats,” Jax says. The guys all high-five and congratulate Hayley and Jayce.

“When’s the wedding?” Chris asks. He’s that guy—the one who asks the awkward questions that no one wants to answer and is totally oblivious about his behavior.

“Give me a year or two to pawn off planning to my sister,” Hayley says.

“Not a fan of wedding planning, I take it?” I personally loved planning my wedding. Every detail from the seating cards to the bridal party gifts. It’s sad that those pictures can never see the light of day again.

“No way,” Hayley says. “Can you even picture me in a white dress? Can a bride get married in black?”

“This is my future wife,” Jayce says. He shakes his head, but it’s clear he adores Hayley because she’s not like everyone else.

“Why don’t you guys just skip the wedding?” Chris says.

“Like elope?” Hayley’s eyes open wide at the idea.

“Heck, I’d marry her right now to prove to her I’m devoted,” Jayce says.

“I can make that happen,” Chris says. “I’m ordained. Married my brother and his wife a few years ago. Internet approved marriage officiant right here.” He points to himself with both thumbs.

“Get out,” Jax says. “I can’t picture you studying and passing a test.”

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