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I reach up and stroke his check. He releases me, but remains close. His arms dangle at his sides. I look into his eyes and see nothing. “I know you think you’re filling a void, but you’re not. If you don’t believe me, talk to Brady. I’m sure you remember how he was.”
“I do.” His sad eyes follow the back of his fingers as they trail down the side of my face. “And it worked out for him. He got you.”
“Tug…I…”
“Don’t, okay? Just don’t.” He turns and walks out.
Why do I feel responsible, as if somehow I shaped him into the man he’s become? I’m angry at me and at him.
I plaster on a smile and go back to our table. I know Tug’s hurting, but I won’t let this ruin my and Brady’s night. Tug’s a grown man, responsible for his choices. As sad as it makes me, it’s time to let him go. When I return to our seat, I notice Tug has joined us. He won’t look at me. I’m too damn mad at him to care.
After dinner and dessert, the waiter fills champagne flutes. Brady stands and walks over to me. He drops to one knee beside me.
I lean down next to his ear. “What are you doing?”
“I’m giving you the proposal I should have the first time.” He winks at me before calling the room to attention. Everyone goes completely quiet.
He produces a small velvet box and flips open the lid. I glance at the gorgeous princess-cut diamond. “Victoria Maria Preston, I love you. You complete me, and I would love it if you would agree to be my wife.” He pulls the ring from the box and slides it up my finger.
It’s a perfect fit.
Like we’re a perfect fit.
As Brady talks, I feel Tug’s eyes boring holes into the side of my face. I feel like if I say yes, I’m twisting the knife, but I love Brady with every fiber in me, and I want nothing more than to be his wife again. We’ve been through things others can only imagine. I have no intention of ever letting him go. I won’t let Tug come between us this time. I can’t.
“Yes.” I bend over and take his face in my hands. I kiss him hard. Everyone in the restaurant stands and breaks out in applause. I sit up in my chair. Out of the corner of my eye, I notice Tug is the only person not standing. He doesn’t clap. He stares at us with dark eyes. I refuse to turn my head toward him.
Brady stands. The tissue he pulls from his pocket does me in. Joyful tears cascade down my cheeks. I take it from his hand. It’s only you.
He lifts me off my feet and kisses me again.
I’m so incredibly happy.
I love him.
After everything Brady and I have been through, I’ve learned true love always prevails…as long as you’re willing to fight for it.
And we’ve fought hard.
A broken heart is never irreparable.
