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I feel his disappointment in my chest. A defense rises inside my head.I’m Spencer’s girlfriend; you knew that the moment you showed up at the cabin. Just because we have fun together doesn’t mean we’re meant to end up together. It isn’t my fault you set yourself up for heartache.
It’s a weak defense that would never stand up in court. Our time together meant more to me than a way to wile away the week while in Maine. It was special. He made it special. He isn’t the only one who’s disappointed.
Tori is the first to offer us congratulations. At least one person in this room is thrilled about our engagement. If it can’t be me, then I’m glad it’s Tori.
Everyone else follows her lead and comes forward until we’re surrounded by Ecclestons and Clarks.
Except for one.
Chapter Nineteen
OWEN
I knewSpencer planned to marry Layla, but I didn’t realize he meant to propose on Christmas. Spencer isn’t the kind of person who makes decisions quickly. I assumed Layla coming to Maine this week was planting a seed for a future engagement.
Layla is marrying Spencer. Operation-Show-Layla-She’s-Worth-More-Than-a-Few-Million has failed. Why can’t she see Spencer is completely wrong for her? They will make each other miserable sooner rather than later. But at least she has her money. The thought carries a tinge of bitterness.
Brady elbows me. “Are you okay?”
“Of course. Why wouldn’t I be?”
He glares like I’m stupid. “Because the girl you love just got engaged to someone else.”
Love.It’s a strong word, but with the way my heart feels torn to bits, he might be right.
“She was never mine to love.” That didn’t stop me from falling for her.
As everyone approaches the couple, I leave the room and go through the house to the back deck. It’s cold outside, but the sky is clear and the sun is warm on my face. For once, there’s no wind blowing off the ocean.
Layla isengagedto Spencer. I was so sure I’d be able to convince her not to marry him. It doesn’t feel real. I don’t know how long I stand outside, but I’m shivering when Miles finds me and wraps a blanket around my shoulders. I pull it tight across my chest.
“Don’t you ever get a day off?” I ask. “Why aren’t you home with your family?”
He leans his elbows on the railing and looks out at the ocean. “My daughters are with their in-laws this year. I’ll see them on Sunday.”
I remember his daughters, twins a few years younger than me. I didn’t realize they were married. In my head, they’re still fifteen.
“It’s been fun being a part of your family Christmas this year,” he continues. “Without my wife, taking care of everyone has kept me busy and my thoughts occupied.”
I’m glad this has been a good week for him. I can’t say the same.
“I wish I’d stayed home,” I mutter. Now more than ever. At least then I wouldn’t have spent the week with Layla, only to have her marry my cousin.
“It meant a lot to Ms. Rheta that you and your family are here,” Miles says.
I raise an eyebrow. “Just Ms. Rheta? I’ve noticed you and my mom together often this week. What are yourintentions?” I speak in a jovial tone to let him know I’m not upset, but I am curious.
He laughs. “We’ve been reconnecting. Though, I won’t lie. If Marianne is interested in more than friendship, I’d like that.”
It’s what I suspected, and though I don’t like thinking of Mom with anyone but Dad, life goes on. Mom hasn’t been this happy in eight years, and it isn’t only because she has her family back.
“You have my support,” I say.
“Thanks. That means a lot to me.” He looks back at the ocean with a wide grin, but then sobers. “I’m glad I caught you alone. There’s something I want to tell you about your grandfather.”
My mood instantly sours. “I’d rather you not.”
Miles ignores my request. “He wasn’t a horrible person. He wasn’t perfect, but he loved you.”
