The sound of the lock turning announced her return, and Domenic approached, his white shirt crisp and his wide chest suddenly in her path as she turned.


    Without a word, he drew her into his embrace.


    The man’s presence wrapped around Lindsey.


    “There you are,” Domenic said, his voice soft with warmth.


    Lindsey longed to stay wrapped in his embrace a bit longer, but she held back her yearning and stepped away.


    “Is something the matter? Did someone bother you?” Domenic’s brow creased as he gazed at the pale-faced Lindsey before him.


    With a weak smile, Lindsey shook her head.


    “No, just feeling a bit worn out.


    I.


    , I’ll wash my face first,” she said and hurried to the bathroom.


    She turned the faucet and sshed cold water onto her face, letting the droplets trailing down her cheeks.


    Patting her face dry, she looked up just in time to see a ne tumble into view.


    A delicate chain of white gold held a vivid red diamond, encircled by a halo of sparkling stones.


    It glinted a fierce red, captivating.


    Reflected in the mirror, Lindsey caught sight of Domenic’s tall silhouette behind her, holding out the ne with the fiery gem.


    “This is she murmured, half in wonder.


    Domenic smiled gently, his thin lips curving as he dr@ped the ne around Lindsey’s neck.


    The red gem caught the Light, twinkling brightly.N?velDrama.Org holds this content.


    “It Looks good on you.


    I knew it would suit you perfectly.


    ”


    From behind her, Domenic wrapped hisrge hands around her waist and leaned his head on her shoulder, admiring the reflection of the ne on Lindsey in the mirror.


    Lindsey stood motionless, her tone slightly cool.


    “Mr.


    Walsh, what do you mean?”


    “It’s yours now.


    Wearing it means you’re taken.


    ”


    Lindsey nced down, falling silent.


    The red diamond was a rarity, undoubtedly costly.


    Domenic wasn’t wealthy, so this could be a significant expense for him.


    Today, Chayce’s unexpected visit had jolted Lindsey back to reality.


    Soon Domenic would learn about her troubled past and likely turn away from her.


    She believed that what was meant to disappear would do so eventually, so it was better to end things now, despite the pain.


    She couldn’t keep up the facade and continue their rtionship.


    Gently, Lindsey removed the ne and ced it back in Domenic’s hand.