I let out a snort. “That’s funny. The girl I’m seeing is named Grace.”
“I hate to say it, but I doubt my eccentric friend would be dating someone like you. I mean, you’re so sophisticated. Not to mention, a bit older.”
My forehead scrunches. Hmm. Sheisa bit younger. But I’m not sure I’d refer to my Gracie as eccentric. “Thank you, Tuesday. I don’t know why I’ve told you all of this. I don’t typically confide in anyone. Not personal stuff like this, anyway.”
“Well, maybe that’s why you did. You just needed to get it out there. But don’t thank me. It’s the flowers.”
My brow quirks in question.
“There’s something about them. When I’m here alone, I must look like a crazy person.” She laughs. “I talk to them. Confess what I’m feeling. My hopes and dreams. Flowers emit such joy. They welcome you into their space without judgment. But that’s why we give them to others, right? To share the love they bring?”
I can’t help but smile at this open and honest creature. She’s genuinely one of the kindest people I think I’ve ever met.
“Just consider the counseling session a free bonus from Cygnature Blooms.” She giggles.
“You’re a real treat, Tuesday. This town is lucky to have you.”
After our conversationcomes to a close, I take Tuesday’s advice and pull out all of the stops. I purchase dozens of red long-stemmed roses, red and pink rose petals, and make a quick detour after landing to pick up all of Grace’s favorites: Hershey kisses, Ring Pops, and even boxes of little candy conversation hearts. Thank heavens Valentine’s Day is near.
Never imagined I’d ever say that out loud.
But otherwise, I’m not sure I would’ve hit the “candy love language” jackpot. Once I have everything set up, I dial Grace’s number. My hands are shaking so badly I almost drop my phone.
“Grace,” I say the second she answers. “I need to see you. Like… right now.”
There’s a pause on the line. My chest squeezes.
“Is everything okay?”
“I don’t know how to do this over the phone,” I admit. “But please tell me you haven’t gone to a lawyer yet.”
Her breath hitches. “Ben…”
“I just—please. Let me see you first.”
Another pause. Then she softly answers, “Okay.”
I pace the floor of the hotel suite where we spent our first night together. I’m still amazed that Milton agreed to help me out with this. The pride on his face answered for him.
It was a huge gamble, but I came clean to him about everything.And I mean everything.I told him how important this project was to me, but over time I discovered, so was Grace. I think he actually respected me for admitting I’d lied, but ultimately, knowing he was securing our relationship by providing his hotel for our formal re-engagement likely sealed the deal.
Whatever it was, I’m grateful. Because if she’s willing to stay married and give this thing a real go, and I get to move on with this project, well, I couldn’t have asked for more.
I’ve been anxiously working to set the scene like a man on a mission. I even tried to pull up some old Hallmark Valentine movieson Prime to get a few pointers. Rose petals scatter across the floor, leading from the door to the living room. Candles glow on every surface. Candy hearts spell out crooked, hopeful words:
Will U B Mine 4Ever
On the table in the center of the room sits my final, ridiculous, grand gesture. A signature engagement ring perfectly chosen for Graceland Montgomery Banks.A Ring Pop.I stare at it suddenly terrified. Not of marriage. Of losing her.
Because she’s going to think this is stupid.
A knock sounds.Shit.Too late to turn back now. I open the door.
Grace stands there in a soft sweater and jeans, eyes wide, her hands clasped over her mouth when she sees the room. “Ben…” she gasps.
I take her hand and lead her inside, heart hammering. “I didn’t know how else to say this,” I tell her. “We did something wild and spontaneous. But I don’t regret a second of it.”
Her fingers tighten around mine.
