AllFreeNovel
Share Us
I look around the nearly full room. No fiancé to be found.
“I’m not sure. He said he had to work late, but I’m sure he’ll be here soon,” I tell Hadley, not wanting to admit my growing annoyance over his absence.
“But his dad’s here.” Hadley gestures across the room to Matt, who is talking to a particularly curvy redhead. Who is that woman? I frown at them, unsure why I feel a twinge of jealousy. “Doesn’t Marky work for his dad?”
“Yeah but Mr. Harrison owns the company. Marky, child genius he may be, is merely a junior architect.”
Suddenly, Matt looks up to see Hadley and I looking at him. He raises his glass at us, and I respond in kind and smile at the handsome man, but just as quickly turn away.
Who is that woman? The thought bugs me, and I shake my head with annoyance.
“Well, it’s just as well because I want to see that rock again,” Hadley coos as she grasps my left hand in hers and examines my engagement ring intently. “Oh gosh, Cora. This ring is to die for.” She fakes fainting and I can’t help but laugh at her antics.
“It is lovely.” I sigh with delight while I gaze at the pretty heirloom. It’s been in Marky’s family for generations and it’s single-handedly the most beautiful thing I’ve ever worn. The ring is an antique, 18-karat gold band set with real pearls and delicate diamonds. All of which centers on a flawless 1.5-carat center diamond. Given its age, perfect condition, and giant gemstone, the ring probably costs more than my car. I love wearing it but I’m also terrified to be entrusted with something so precious.
“Lovely is an understatement.” Hadley shakes her head. “Marky must really love you.”
Suddenly, we’re interrupted.
“Oh the ring! I would love to get a closer look, Cora,” comes a high-pitched wheezy voice. My Great-Aunt Sue ambles over, always eager for the latest gossip to snag and immediately share.
“Hi Auntie. Thanks for coming.” I kiss her withered old cheek and hold my hand out to her.
“Cora, this ring something special. What’s the story?”
“Well, it’s been in Marky’s family for several generations now, on his dad’s side.”
Auntie Sue nods, looking at the ring thoughtfully.
“It looks like it’s expensive. I wonder how much…?” She regards me inquisitively but I just laugh. “Fine, keep your secrets, Little Miss. And mind you take good care it,” Aunt Sue lectures me.
“I will. I’m really blessed to have such a beautiful and treasured ring. I know it means a lot to the family.” I smile at my relative, sincere in my words. I’m so lucky to have a ring from Matt Harrison.
“Well, you look as pretty as a picture.” The older woman pinches my cheek and walks toward the bar. “Take care sweetie pie. I’m going to get myself another cocktail. Those Aperol spritzes are good!”
As my aunt ambles away, my best friend giggles a bit.
“Wonder how many drinks she’s had,” Hadley teases.
“She is a character.” I roll my eyes.
“But she’s right, you do look so beautiful.” Hadley squeezes my hand.
I beam at her and look down again at my stunning engagement ring. Tonight, set against my creamy skin and blue velvet dress, the ring sparkles especially bright, a visual representation of my mood.
Well, almost.
Where the heck is Marky?
Across the room, Matt shoots me a glance, even though he’s still talking to the redhead. Who is that woman? I think to myself for the third time. I smile slightly, and turn away from him, not entirely sure why I suddenly feel both embarrassed and thrilled to catch him looking at me.
For the next several minutes, I make the rounds and continue to greet my guests, sneaking in quick calls to Marky that range from worry about him to demanding to know where he is. I’m growing more and more frustrated that my fiancé still hasn’t made an appearance when, finally, after my fifth phone call, Marky picks up.
“Hey, I’ve been trying to reach you. Where are you?” I try to control my exasperation, relieved that he has finally answered.
“Sorry, I know. Look I can’t talk but I’ll be on my way soon,” he says in a slightly breathless voice. Has he been working out? Why would he sound like that?
Marky hangs up abruptly before I can ask, and I stand there for a moment, wondering what is going on and why I’m alone at my own engagement party.
Sighing, I sip on my almost empty glass of champagne and observe the joy around me. Where is my handsome fiancé? And why hasn’t he made an appearance yet?
2
Matt
Taking in the busy scene before me, I take another swig of whiskey. The busty redhead won’t stop talking my ear off, but I’m trying to be polite. She’s pretty and curvy, and a friend of Marky’s from college so I’m obligated to listen. I nod at her chatter and laugh quickly whenever she makes a joke.
