Pink Diamonds — Julia Gabriel

Pink Diamonds is a Bonus Scene (5,000 words) from Next to You. It's best to read Next to You first.

“Obviously, this isn't a permanent ring.”

Jared owes Phlox a replacement engagement ring for the ring of braided grass he proposed with. But like most things with Jared Connor, that's easier said than done.

Let's just say I spent more than two month's salary on it. Oh who was he kidding? The ring had cost more than his beloved Maserati.

Their friends and family have gathered at Phlox's Connecticut home to meet and celebrate the engagement. Zee and Rye. Jake and Mina. Emma and Aidan.

It wasn't even that Phlox was so concerned about a ring. It was Jared's ego that needed the ring, the symbol. He needed to show people that he would take care of her, that he would treat her well, that … well, that she was his. He wanted to laugh at himself. He'd always thought that falling in love would make him a better man. Instead it had made him even more of a Neanderthal.

He has the girl. The ring. The “yes.” Now all he needs is the perfect moment.