Chapter 6

It was the first time that I'd heard Lucas speak so much in one breath since we'd grown apart.

Looking at how serious he was, I teared up. Everything he had said only proved I'd made the right choice. "Lucas, marriage isn't a game. I chose you because I want to spend the rest of my life with you," I said.

"Are you sincerely choosing me?"

I nodded, and he lit up like a child who'd just been handed candy.

…

Hand in hand, we walked down the stairs, and we exchanged engagement rings in front of everyone.

"Christina, I'll treat you well for the rest of my life," he promised.

…

My birthday was a week after the engagement banquet, but by now, I was sure no one remembered. I spent the day at my father's grave.

By the time I returned to the Quinn residence, it was deep into the night.

Under the dark porch, a tiny ember flared and dimmed. When I came closer, I saw it was Lucas.

The smoke caught in my throat and made me cough. He quickly snuffed out the cigarette and asked, "Where hav