Page 88 of Saving Forever
“This is also for you,” he continues, holding out two gift bags—one from Godiva and one from a well-known jeweler in town.
I open the chocolate first, because that’s safer, and smile. “My favorite,” I say quietly. “Thank you.”
“I was not sure,” he admits. “But I thought maybe you would like something exotic. They are limited edition.”
“I’ve never tried these but I’m sure they’re wonderful.” I look at the jeweler’s bag and open it carefully. The rectangular velvet box inside tells me it’s either a necklace or bracelet and I open the top slowly.
Oh, sweet Jesus.
The tennis bracelet is even bigger than the one I sold after Nathan lost all my money. And it’s absolutely breathtaking.
“Viktor,” I whisper. “It’s…beautiful. I don’t even know what to say.”
“I can put it on?”
“Yes. Please.” I hold out my wrist and note that my hand is shaking a little.
He fastens the clasp and I stare at it in wonder.
I don’t deserve this.
I have to tell him about New York and?—”
“I have one more gift.” He’s more tentative this time and very slowly holds out the big gift box.
It’s from Build-A-Bear.
Oh, shit.
I look at him and he nods hopefully.
Very carefully, I open the box and—there’s the cutest, sweetest little hockey player wearing skates and holding a stick. And a note that says, “Inside this bear is my heart—so you can hold it close even when I am not there.”
Tears puddle in my eyes and drip down my cheeks.
“No.” He immediately yanks me into his arms. “Please do not cry. I’m sorry. I did not mean to hurt you!” He’s holding me close, face buried in my hair again, just like last night.
“Viktor—this is too much!” I whisper. “You didn’t have to?—”
“Yes. It was necessary. You are not just a casual lay. You’re my wife. I was disrespectful. It was not fair.”
Nothing about this is fair.
“I love him,” I whisper, clutching the bear in one hand. “He’s the sweetest gift anyone has ever given me.”
“You forgive me?”
“Always.” I close my eyes and breathe in the faint scent of his aftershave. Drinking in his warmth and his strength and everything else that makes my husband the man he is.
I have to tell him about New York.
Even if it ruins everything.
Because it’s not fair to keep this from him.
“Viktor.” I slowly pull away, eyes searching his face. “I have to tell you something.”
I see a flicker of concern. Not anger, not fear, just concern. Because that’s who he is.
