Page 22 of Deceptive Vows
Once our meal concluded, we decided to walk since a jeweler her family used was nearby. We’d only gone a block when she rested her head against my arm—a simple move to sell the engagement, nothing more. I continually reminded myself that it was all for show, just another part of the act. Yes, the brush of her skin stirred something in me that I couldn’t ignore. It felt natural…right, as though fate had orchestrated this moment. I’d told myself I didn’t believe in that notion, but with her beside me, my entire belief system was being challenged.
“Nazar…”
I cleared my throat. “Yes?”
“This is nice.”
That word didn’t accurately convey my feelings. “I’m enjoying it.” I could see myself obsessively craving it beyond the current moment.
Thea pulled me to a stop half a block later in front of a jewelry store. “This is the place. This is where Pa got Ma’s ring. Ari had Anna’s made here. I guess you could say it’s family tradition.”
Why did that warm my heart? This was fake, and yet, bringing me into her circle filled me with pleasure. “Then this is where we’ll find your ring.”
I wondered what she’d choose. Small and sweet or large and ostentatious. I’d gambled many times, and my money was on the first option.
The bell rang as we stepped inside. The scent of lemon polish lingered in the air, mingling with the faint metallic tang of cold jewelry. If I were to guess, it was at least thirty years ago or more since the quaint little shop was updated. It had the feeling of being more than just a store. I suspected it was part of the traditions of many families.
Display cases showcased rings that were more art than jewelry with each piece a story of craftsmanship and care. I did not doubtthat the person who owned the shop put his heart into everything he made.
Thea drifted to one of the cases, her fingers brushing the edges. “This one is lovely.”
“Do you like emeralds?” I asked as I stepped closer.
She glanced up, her lips curving in a smile. “I like meaning more than metal and stones. But yes, emeralds are beautiful.”
A short, thin man shuffled from the back and smiled. “My Thea.” He raised his arms, crossing the room until he had her in a tight embrace. “How are you, my dear?”
“I’m good, Mr. Marcello. How are you?” She kissed his cheek as she returned the hug.
The elderly man stepped back. “I’m just fine. That chicken noodle soup you brought me was divine.” He looked at me. “And who is this well-dressed gentleman?”
“Nazar Volkov. He’s my friend until tomorrow when we become engaged.” She eyed me with a smile. “Nazar, this is Arthur Marcello, a family friend. His wife, Isabella, and my Ma were childhood best friends.”
I stuck my hand out to the man. “It’s nice to meet you, Mr. Marcello.”
His eyes narrowed as he caught my gaze and stuck out his hand. “Likewise, Mr. Volkov.” He returned his attention to Thea. “And you’re here looking for an engagement ring?”
The way Thea looked at this man, he was more than just a family friend. She loved and respected him, and suddenly, his approval was the most important thing to me.
“Yes.” Her grin widened. The genuine glow that spread across her face transformed her features, softening the sharp edges.
It was a smile I hadn't seen yet—unguarded and bright with affection… and something tightened in my chest at the sight of it. For the briefest moment, I almost wished this wasn't for show.
His gaze found me again and raked over my face and down my body. “Young man, Thea has been coming to visit me since her father first brought her here. She is the sweetest, most loving girl I’ve ever met. She used to come here after school with her little backpack and a peanut butter sandwich. She’d sit on that stool over there.” He nodded his head toward the little worn wooden chair near the register. “While I polished rings, she’d chatter away. Once she was finishedeating, she’d do her homework and then help around the store—I didn’t even ask!”
Thea’s cheeks turned crimson. “Mr. Marcello, those were our secrets!”
He continued, the twinkle in his eyes growing. “One day, she told me she wanted to buy her Ma a new ring. Thea said the one her Ma had was too small for all the love she carried.” He looked at Thea, his smile softening. “Even as a child, she had a heart too big for this world.”
She laughed lightly, brushing a strand of her hair behind her ear. “I think you’ve told enough embarrassing stories for one night, Mr. Marcello.”
“He needs to know the treasure he’s being given.” He patted her hand before turning to me. “When my wife, Isabella, became sick, Thea would bring her soup and sit with her while I worked. This girl means the world to me. I’m an old man, and my threats may sound weak, but if you harm even a hair on her head or cause her even a pennyweight of heartache, I’ll sell everything I own to make sure you pay.”
A slow, sweet heat filled my chest. My Dark Angel with the heart of gold. Vengeance and grace. Love and justice. Such a divine contrast. Her list of desirable qualities kept growing.
I caught her gaze and held it. “You have my word that I will do everything in my power to keepallof her safe.”
Her eyes widened as her lips parted. I didn’t miss the hard swallow either.
