Chapter 1
Chapter 1
A week before our engagement party, my boyfriend Blake Sterling told me our ceremony would be postponed for another
month.
“Emma’s having her first solo performance at Carnegie Hall that day,” he explained, his tone dismissive. “It’s a huge milestone for her career and I can’t miss it. Besides, we’re getting engaged anyway. What difference does a few weeks make?”
This was the third time he had postponed our engagement for Emma’s sake.
The first time, Emma was studying at the Royal Academy of Music in London when she fell ill. She called Blake in tears, saying she felt alone and scared.
The second time, Emma impulsively decided to go on a “soul–searching” trip through Europe. Blake, worried sick, dropped everything to follow her.
And now, this was the third time.
I set down my phone and turned to look at my childhood friend and Boston’s most eligible bachelor, Marcus Blackwood. “Need a fiancée?”
On what should have been my engagement day, Blake was tenderly embracing Emma at her post–concert reception when the news broke across social media – Marcus Blackwood’s surprise engagement to me. As he watched the live coverage, his eyes
turned red with anger.
Marcus studied me carefully. “Are you sure about this, Claire? Can you really let go of Blake?”
I spread my hands helplessly. “I gave him enough chances. This is the third time he’s canceled our engagement for the same woman. Maybe the universe is trying to tell me something. Even the warmest heart can’t thaw a frozen one, right?”
Marcus smiled, a glint of determination in his eyes. “If you’re sure, then I want to do this properly. The Blackwood name carries certain expectations, and I want everyone to know exactly who I’m marrying.”
I looked at him, trying to read deeper into his heart. What I saw was unwavering resolve. Finding courage I didn’t know I had, I answered, “Alright.”
I went home and began packing my belongings. When Blake returned and saw my suitcase, he sneered, “Running away again? Claire Bennett, aren’t you tired of this childish routine? You’ve pulled this stunt every time we’ve had a disagreement for the past four years.”
“It’s just a postponement!” His voice rose with irritation.
“Pushing back the ceremony a few weeks doesn’t mean I don’t want to marry you!” He looked ready to slam the door and
storm out.
I replied calmly, “I’m not running away. I’m just organizing my things.” Though in my heart, I knew this time I was leaving for good.
Blake loosened his tie and carelessly ordered, “Well, since you’re cleaning up, get the guest room ready too. Emma mentioned this place is closer to the concert hall, so she’ll be staying here for a while.”
I pushed my packed suitcase to the corner and answered without looking up, “Alright. I’ll have Marie prepare the guest room tomorrow.”
Chapter 1
My easy compliance seemed to surprise Blake. His tone softened slightly. “Look, I know you’re upset. Here’s what we’ll do – tomorrow, go to Tiffany’s and pick out whatever jewelry set you want. It’s my gift to you. I’ve been swamped lately with Emma back in town. Her penthouse hasn’t been lived in for ages, so I’ve been helping her get it ready.”
He added, “Just focus on the engagement preparations for now. Once Emma’s concert is over, I’ll make it up to you. Okay?”
The weight on my chest felt like a boulder, but I managed to say, “No need to come with me. I have plenty to keep me busy. I’m just sorting through some things and doing some organizing.”
Blake didn’t question why I suddenly wanted to clean a house I’d just moved into. Instead, he looked relieved. “Oh right – last time she visited, Emma mentioned she didn’t like you using the sunroom as your art studio. She wants to practice there. So you’re finally moving all your stuff out?”
Taking a deep breath, I replied, “Yes, I’ve thought it through. The sunroom will be hers starting tomorrow.” Silently, I added, so will you.
The next day, Emma returned to Boston. I hadn’t even gotten out of bed when photos of her and Blake’s airport reunion went viral online. Their “heartwarming embrace” quickly became the top trending topic.
