Arabella

“It belonged to my grandmother,” he said, “and her mother before that. It’s a family heirloom.” He opened the box and took it out, twirling it between his fingers. “She gave it to me a couple of years ago. Said I should give it to someone I really cared about.”

I looked up at him, unsure, my mouth dry.

“It’s sentimental,” he added softly. “Don’t lose it.”

He grabbed my hand forcefully and slipped the ring onto my engagement finger, then peered at it closely. “You’re wearing a Falcone heirloom, an important one at that. You’ve become a part of our family now, Bella.”

My heart was pounding in...