Chapter Thirty
Celeste’s POV
I sat at my workbench, examining an engagement ring I had designed and crafted.
It gleamed under the studio lights, and I couldn’t help but let out a bitter smile. I nearly gave up on this dream three months ago.
Snapping the jewelry box closed, I left it on my workbench and walked to the window. Things were looking up. My studio had been operating smoothly lately, and I had almost paid off my loan.
But as I gazed at the street below, I couldn’t help feeling a little lost.
Bonnie still wanted nothing to do with me.
I had seen her a few times since the exhibition. It didn’t matter if I cooked her favorite meals at my apartment or took her on a fun outing–she was always in a hurry to go home to Damien and Vanessa.
I heard the front door shut and hurried to dry my eyes–no one needed to see me crying first thing in the morning. Grace walked into my studio, her face glowing as she smiled at me.
“Hey, love.” She gave me a hug. “You’re early as usual.”
When we pulled apart, her hair shifted, revealing a trail of purple marks on her neck.
“Grace! You’re covered in hickeys.” I gasped. “I need details. Now.”
Her cheeks turned rosy as she laughed.
“Someone’s love life is picking up. Spill!” I teased as I led us to the chaise by my window.
“I guess the cat’s out of the bag.” She said, smiling. “I’m seeing someone.”
My eyes widened. “Really? You have a boyfriend?”
Grace wasn’t opposed to flirting and having her fun, but she hardly ever dated long term.
She blushed. “Well, things are getting pretty serious. I’m actually planning on moving out of our apartment and staying with him.”
“No way.” I said, shocked and excited for my friend. “Who is this guy that he managed to woo our sworn bachelorette?”
Grace laughed at my teasing.
“He’s drop dead gorgeous, Celeste.” She said, fanning herself. “I saw him at a bar and just knew I had to have him. He felt the same, and the rest is history.”
My excitement was tinged with concern.
“How long is this history, anyway?” I asked.
She thought for a moment. “Not that long, actually. But we hit it off straight away and things progressed pretty quickly after that.”
“I’m thrilled for you, Grace.” 1 squeezed her hand. “Just be careful, okay? I don’t want you to get hurt.”
She waved me off.
Chapter Thirty
+25 BONUS
“Thanks, Celeste, but you don’t need to worry about me. I’ll be careful.”
“You better be.” I said sternly.
She laughed.
1 pouted. “This apartment is going to feel so empty without you.”
“I’m not so sure about that.” Grace said with a mischievous grin. “I can think of a certain someone who’d be perfect company during those cold, lonely nights.”
“Stop it!” I said, swatting her arm playfully.
She loved to tease.
“Oh look, here he is now.” She tilted her head to the door.
My heart jumped.
Ryan walked into the studio, his satchel over his shoulder and a small gift box in his hand. The muscles in his arms bulged beneath his shirt as he placed his bag on the table. A dazzling smile graced his face as he headed towards us.
I swallowed, trying to calm my racing heart.
Grace whispered in my ear. “Wouldn’t you just love to climb that man like a tree?”
My face flamed as I elbowed her playfully.”
“He’ll hear you!” I admonished in a hushed tone.
“Ryan, glad you could join us.” She said, a glint in her eyes. “We’re having the most fascinating conversation.” His gaze landed on her neck.
“Oh, I’m sure it’s riveting.” He said, giving her a knowing smile.
She blushed as he turned to me and held out the gift box.
“What’s this?” I asked, puzzled.
Ryan let out a throaty laugh. “Only you would forget your own birthday, Celeste.”
My hand flew to my mouth.
I’d been so busy recently that it completely slipped my mind.
“Happy birthday, Celeste.” He said with a dimpled smile.
I took the box from his hand and opened it. My breath hitched as I peered at the exquisite bracelet inside.
He rubbed the back of his neck. “I designed and made it myself.”
“Really?”
I lifted it from the box to study carefully, The design concept and craftsmanship were outstanding–it was a brilliant piece.
“This is incredible, Ryan.” I beamed up at him. “You’ve progressed so quickly.”
He smiled. “Here, let me.”
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Chapter Thirty
He took the bracelet and fastened it around my wrist, his fingers lingering on my skin.
My stomach fluttered at the gesture.
I pulled my hand away and examined the jewelry to avoid his gaze. Ryan was my assistant and childhood friend. I couldn’t let his naturally sweet and thoughtful nature muddle my feelings.
“This is an amazing gift. Thank you, Ryan.”
He smiled. “It’s only a pleasure.”
“It’s getting late.” I said, standing. “It’s time we start our day.‘
He saluted. “Yes, ma’am.”
I laughed at his antics.
“Has Maximilian given you any designer opportunities?” Ryan asked.
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Chapter Thirty One
Chapter Thirty One
