Page 172 of Bleeding Hearts Duet

“Yes,” Norma answered for her. “I tried to talk him into coming too. I’m sorry, Brighton, but you know he’s stubborn as hell.”

“I know.” I nodded.

It was for the best he wasn’t going to be here if that was his attitude. I didn’t need anyone trying to ruin our special day. But I still couldn’t believe Ryland had extended the olive branch. I was shocked, and it only made me want to marry him more.

Norma reached out and handed me a little blue box. “Ryland wanted me to give you this.”

“What is it?”

“Well, open it and see.” She grinned. “I’m guessing it’s some kind of jewelry from the looks of it.”

I reached down and opened the lid to find a white gold necklace with what appeared to be a heart wave. The paper beneath it confirmed it.

“Oh my God.” I clasped a hand over my mouth. “He had this custom made for me. It’s his heart beat.”

“What does the paper say?” Nicole tried to peek over my shoulder.

“It says, keep this close to your heart, Brighton, so we’ll never be out of sync.”

“Wow.” Nicole blubbered. “That is so sweet. And so unlike Ryland.”

“I know.” I choked out a laugh between sobs.

“I think you found yourself a keeper,” Norma butted in.

“I think so too.” I wiped away my tears. “Let’s make me pretty so I can go and marry him.”

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