Page 19 of A Sinful Gravity

"Lost control," Chloe sat up, serious. "Since kid days, he bottled everything. Broke his arm, didn't cry. Him going nuts means he cares. A lot."

Irritation flared. I laughed bitter. "So I should be touched by his meltdown?"

"Not that," Chloe waved. "Just—he loves you. Might not know it himself. But he does. Guys like him, raised to be tough, cold—"

"Chloe," I cut in. "What're you saying?"

She pressed her lips. "Give him one more shot?"

I went quiet.

Another chance? How many had I given? Since marriage, waiting for a glance, a soft word, trust.

But last night proved it.

He'd pick Sloane over asking me once.

"I know he was a jerk," Chloe grabbed my hand. "But you said he apologized, promised a good birthday. He knows he screwed up. Luna, for him, saying sorry's huge."

"You're his sister. Of course you side with him."

"Don't say that. You're my best friend." Chloe thought. "If he's not worth it, I wouldn't push. But... you two need a chance. For him to fix it."

"And," Chloe picked up Cassian's tablet nearby. A message popped. She handed it. "See for yourself."

Auction confirmation. Blue sapphire necklace, simple style, but the cut and color of the main stone—I froze.

Sonia Petrova's necklace.

Sonia, my idol since twelve, wore it for her first Lausanne prize, every big stage after.

It vanished after a charity auction. I'd told Chloe it was my dream item. It takes more than money to snag it.

"This," my voice shook. "Real?"

"As you see," Chloe said soft. "Cassian got it ages ago. For your birthday. He gets you."

I set the tablet down, breathed deep.

No.

Couldn't melt like that. Too easy on him. Last night's blame, all the cold and doubt in our marriage—necklace wouldn't erase it.

"Luna," Chloe squeezed my hand. "No pressure. But if he changes this time, gives you answers on your birthday, would you give him one more?"

I looked up, lost.

Her eyes were pure concern, not lobbying for him. Just tossed the question, waited for my call.

Time dragged.

"Last one," I heard myself say, quiet. "If birthday flops, I'm out."

Chloe smiled. "Good. I promise, last. I want you two good, 'cause I only want you as my sister-in-law."

"Darling, if Cassian doesn't cherish you, I'm on your side. If he disappoints, I'll pack your bags myself and beat him senseless."

I buried my face in her shoulder, nodded.