Page 50 of Denim & Diamonds

I spent the next fifteen minutes telling Brock about my relationship with my ex—how we met in high school, how Johnathan had been the only man I’d ever been with on my wedding night, how I’d supported him financially while he went to law school. I concluded with the happilyneverafter of my story—my ex and my ex-best friend getting together and the wedding invitation that had arrived today.

“Believe it or not,” I said. “I’m really not upset that he’s getting married. It will always sting that he’s with my ex-best friend, but him moving on isn’t what has me so preoccupied right now. It’s the realization that I’ve let my marriage and other things that have happened to me control my dating life.” I looked into Brock’s eyes. “I’m afraid to get hurt again, Brock.”

He pulled me into a hug. “I’m sorry that happened to you. I really am. And now I might want to kick that idiot Johnathan’s ass even more than I want to kick Tobias’s.”

I smiled. “You’d crush both of them with one hand tied behind your back.”

Brock stroked my hair. “Thank you for sharing all of that with me. Just so you know, you’re not the only scared one sitting on this blanket.”

“You’re just trying to make me feel better. You’re not afraid of anything.”

“That’s what I might’ve said a few weeks ago. But a certain fiery little redhead has me scared shitless.” He cupped my cheeks. “I’m in deep, Red. I have no idea how the hell it happened so fast, but it did. And I hope you can find a way to put your fears behind you and not let them control your future. Because I see good things coming your way—comingourway—if you’re willing to accept them.”

Brock and I held each other for a long time after that. It was everything I needed and more. Too soon, though, I had to get going. I was so close to completing the wellness program and didn’t want to get kicked out now, so we headed back to Sierra.

Brock shut off the lights on his truck as he drove up the long driveway and parked around back, next to my ladder. Our goodnight kiss was gentle and sweet. After, he leaned his forehead to mine.

“So tell me,” he said. “Am I going to need a tux, or will a suit be okay?”

I felt my brows pull together. “A tux? For what?”

“For the wedding next month. I’ll go with you, if you want to go.”

CHAPTER 10

Brock

A few days later, the bells on the door chimed as I entered the one tuxedo shop in all of Meadowbrook.

A man immediately greeted me. “How can I help you, Mr. Hawkins?”

I didn’t recognize him, but he apparently knew me.

“I need to be measured for a tux, please.”

“I’ll get someone right out.”

“Thank you.” I nodded.

Looking around at the mannequins dressed to the nines, I felt very out of place. I’d made fun of Plaid Suit, and here I was getting fitted for one myself. I’d make sure the pants were longer than his had been, though.

“Well, well, well, if it isn’t Brock Hawkins,” a voice said from behind me.

I whipped around. Squinting at the short blonde, I realized her face looked familiar.Shit. Just what I need.Sasha Brinkley. I dated her in high school.

I ran a hand through my hair. “Sasha. How have you been?”

“I’m well. What brings you in here? You’re not finally getting married, are you?”

“No.” I shook my head.

“Was gonna say. Pigs must be flying, if that’s the case.” She laughed.

“I’m attending a wedding out of state and want to make sure I have a tux in time.”

“That figures. Would’ve been the talk of the town ifyouwere off the market.”

“Not really sure how my relationship status is anyone’s business, but okay…”

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